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Level 3 Creative Media Course in Buxton

CostFREE
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start1 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyPearson Edexcel awarding body
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About this course

BTEC National Extended Diploma in Creative Media Practice in Buxton. Classes run at University of Derby Buxton Campus, full-time over two years.

Tuition fees are usually covered if you were 16 to 18 years old on 31 August 2025. If you are 19 or over, fees may apply. You'll need at least four GCSEs at Grade 4 or above, including English.

The course covers film, photography, sound, graphics and games. You'll work on individual and group projects, take part in work experience, and use professional cameras, editing software and recording equipment. You'll explore different areas of media before choosing a specialism. The course typically takes two years full-time.

You'll finish with a Pearson Edexcel Level 3 Extended Diploma in Creative Media Practice.

Who this course is for

This programme is aimed at 16-18-year-olds who have a keen interest in media and the media sector and would like to progress onto higher education, apprenticeships or employment within the media creative industries. The Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Creative Media course is designed to give you the opportunity to develop the fundamental creative skills needed to prepare you for employment, university or an apprenticeship in creative media or a related sector. You could progress on to a vast range of creative media careers including TV Runner, Graphics Designer, Producer, Boom Mic Operator, Camera Person, Photographer and many more.

Entry requirements

You will need a minimum of four Grade 4 GCSEs including English.

What you will learn

  • You'll explore film production, photography, sound design, graphic design and games development.
  • You'll develop hands-on skills using professional cameras, editing software and recording equipment.
  • You'll work on individual and group creative projects, including live client briefs.
  • You'll take part in work experience with local employers in Derbyshire and Staffordshire.
  • You'll choose a creative media specialism to focus on in depth.
  • You'll build a portfolio of work across different media disciplines.

How you will learn

Learning is project-based and practical. You'll complete assignments, individual projects and group work in dedicated media studios. Assessment is through coursework and portfolio evidence rather than exams. You'll also take part in work experience placements and may attend industry visits and guest sessions from media professionals.

What you will need to bring

The centre will provide most materials. University of Derby Buxton Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start. The cost description notes you may need to cover travel, meals, equipment or childcare. A college bursary may help with these costs.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Video editor, edits footage for TV, film or online content.
  • Content creator, produces video, photo and written content for brands.
  • Graphic designer, creates visual assets for print and digital media.
  • Photographer, works in commercial, editorial or event photography.
  • Games developer, designs and builds interactive games and digital experiences.
  • Junior TV or film runner, supports productions on set or in studio.
  • Social media manager, plans and creates content across digital platforms.

What you could study next

  • A degree in Media Production, Film, Photography or a related creative subject at university, building on the skills and specialism you develop on this course.
  • A higher or degree apprenticeship in digital media or creative industries, combining work with further study.
  • A Level 4 or Level 5 Higher National Certificate or Diploma in Creative Media, for a shorter higher-level route before a full degree.
Apply on derby.ac.uk →
Apply now →

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