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Free Level 3 Art and Design Course in Nottingham

CostFREE
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
StartFlexible
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyPearson Edexcel awarding body
Apply now →

About this course

Free Level 3 Art and Design Practice Course in Nottingham. Classes run at Nottingham College City Hub, full-time over two years. The course is free for 16 to 18 year olds.

You'll develop photographic and design skills through project-based work. Units cover commercial and artistic photography, professional practice, and studio techniques. You'll work in dedicated photographic studios, darkrooms, and computer studios. Year 2 ends with a final major project and a public exhibition.

You'll finish with a Pearson Edexcel BTEC National Diploma in Art and Design Practice.

Who this course is for

This course is perfect if you want the techniques needed to take consistently high-quality photographs, as well as the skills and insight necessary for a career in the exciting world of photography or a related industry.

Entry requirements

You’ll need 5 GCSEs at grades 9 - 4 (A* - C), including English Language and Maths - both of these must be grades 9 - 4 (A* - C) or Functional Skills Level 2 in English and Maths, or a relevant Level 2 vocational qualification with English and Maths GCSE grades 9 - 4 (A* - C). You will also need a portfolio or showreel of work.

What you will learn

  • You'll develop commercial and artistic photographic techniques.
  • You'll work on project briefs that reflect professional practice.
  • You'll use photographic studios, darkrooms, and computer studios.
  • You'll investigate career routes and opportunities in the creative industries.
  • You'll build a body of work toward a final major project.
  • You'll present your work in a public exhibition.

How you will learn

You'll learn through project work and hands-on studio practice. Assessment is coursework-based, with projects marked against set criteria. In Year 1 you complete 90 credits and earn a standalone qualification. Year 2 builds on this and culminates in a final major project. You're also encouraged to complete a 30-hour work placement during the course.

What you will need to bring

You'll need a portfolio or showreel of your work to apply. Nottingham College City Hub will confirm anything else you need before you start.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Photographer, shooting commercial, editorial, or artistic work.
  • Graphic designer, creating visual content for brands and media.
  • Illustrator, producing artwork for publishing, advertising, or digital platforms.
  • Studio assistant, supporting professional photographers or designers on shoots.
  • Visual content creator, producing images and design assets for social media or marketing.
  • Art and design technician, supporting creative teams in studios or colleges.

What you could study next

  • Higher National Certificate or Diploma in Photography or Graphic Design, a natural next step into specialist creative study.
  • BA (Hons) in Photography, Fine Art, or Graphic Design, for those wanting a full degree in the creative arts.
  • Level 3 apprenticeship in Creative and Digital Media, combining work and study in a professional setting.
Apply on nottinghamcollege.ac.uk →
Apply now →

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