Course Description

The Creative Industries touch almost every other sector in the UK. You will develop an understanding of the Photography sector that will enable you to confidently enter the industry.

The course will provide you with the opportunity to learn practical, theoretical and transferable skills. Supported by our expert Photography team, you will practice and develop technical skills that will give you the fundamental knowledge needed to succeed.

You will have access to our photographic studios with industry standard equipment such as DSLR cameras, lenses and lighting. In addition, you will benefit from access to professional standard digital imaging and editing software, including Adobe Creative Suite, Photoshop, Bridge and Light-Room. You will be taught via workshops, seminars, lectures and also expected to utilise independent study time.

You will study a range of units, through a series of projects incorporating theoretical and practical learning. Practical topics include: camera operation, editing, lighting, location and studio shooting. In addition, you will study theory and concepts including visual communication, professional practice and self reflection.

You will also develop soft skills in teamwork, communication, planning, evaluation and problem solving.

You will demonstrate your learning through practical tasks, written narrative, analysis and presentations, whilst using sketchbooks and online platforms to document the development of your practical and written work.

There are elements of extensive written work including evaluation, reflections and essays. You will also be expected to deliver presentations.

The course is made up of two one year programmes. In the first year you will study the UAL L3 Diploma in Creative Practice: Art, Design & Communication (Photography). If you complete this successfully with the minimum of a Pass, you will be able to progress to the second year, when you will study the UAL L3 Extended Diploma in Creative Practice: Art, Design & Communication (Photography).

Other Important Information

This programme is initially a one year Diploma, which then continues to a second year to become an Extended Diploma. You will enrol on the second year of the programme upon achieving a minimum Pass grade for year one.

The College has a range of stills cameras as well as accessories. We also use Apple Macs and Adobe software. We do not require students to own this equipment themselves.

To be able to complete work outside of College internet access at home is recommended as this will enable you to access your online sketchbooks.

All MidKent College students will continue studying English and maths until they are 19, or until they have achieved a Grade 4/C. Your study programme will incorporate a Work Placement of up to 350 hours in a role relevant to your study. All students will have access to a Personal Tutor to support their personal and professional development.

Future Prospects

The aim of this course is to enable students to progress to either further study or employment.

You could progress to Level 4 or 5 study at a higher education establishment.

With the skills you will learn you will be able to work in the creative industries or prepare for work as a freelancer.

Entry Requirements

Five GCSEs at grade 4/C or above including English and maths at grade 4/C or above.