Extended Diploma in Creative Media Production & Technology
Are you passionate about pursuing a career in the creative media industry?
This Creative Media course could set you on the pathway to a dream job in filmmaking, photography, editing, social media, content creation, podcasting, branding, animation, video game design, graphics design, VFX or interactive media! In year one, you will study the Level 3 Diploma in Creative Media Production & Technology, and in year two you will study the Level 3 Extended Diploma in Creative Media Production & Technology.
During the course, you will enhance your technical expertise through hands-on workshops with industry-standard equipment and technology, and gain insights into the creative thinking and production process by completing multiple production projects and live briefs. As you progress through the course you will identify the ideal pathway for progressing into university, employment, or an apprenticeship.
Internal work experience will allow you to gain hands-on knowledge of what it’s like to work in the field and apply the skills developed throughout the course in a collaborative and practical setting. Past internal work experience has involved on-location film production with zombie and murder mystery-themed short films being produced, directed and filmed entirely by students. Branding and marketing campaigns were also produced in conjunction with the short films for those whose primary focus was graphic design and social media content creation.
The units on this qualification have been developed to provide you with the flexibility to either explore multiple practical disciplines or develop and focus on one discipline throughout the entire two years.
During the course you will study the following units:
– Introduction to media processes and technical skills
– Introduction to design and research skills in creative media production
– Introduction to professional practice in creative media production
– Critical and contextual awareness
– Investigating audio production and technology
– Investigating visual production and technology
– Investigating interactive media production and technology
– Developing a creative media production project
These units will be merged into projects where live briefs will be given and deadlines set. These projects aim to simulate industry, providing you with a range of knowledge and skills required to complete a project from start (ideation, research, proposal, evaluation, planning) to finish (product creation and critical evaluation).
At the end of each year, there is a final, summative project (developing a creative media production project), which will be an extended project of work that you choose to pursue based on your interests and skills. You can choose from a wide range of project outcomes, including producing a short film, documentary, influencer-type video, posters, website, game art, fashion and editorial photography, short animation etc. The list is nearly endless. You can choose to collaborate with other students if the project is suitable, but please be aware that you will need to document roles thoroughly.
The programme is delivered by a team of experienced and approachable lecturers who have a wealth of industry knowledge and expertise.
Course details
Assessments
There are no exams for this qualification. Instead, you will be assessed through your coursework submissions, and a grade will be given for your summative project (FMP) at the end of the year on results day.
Entry Requirements
To be accepted onto this Level 3 programme, you must hold at least five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including GCSE Maths and English Language.
You will also be asked to provide a small portfolio of recent creative media/artistic products at interview, that shows your skills and interest in creative media and reflects your chosen specialism.
Progression
This qualification carries UCAS points equivalent to three A Levels. Upon successful completion, you can follow a number of progression pathways such as university, setting up a freelance production company or moving directly into employment in the industry.
Facilities and resources
Within the Creative Media department, we boast an ever-expanding range of industry-standard software and equipment. You will have access to the following:
– Windows PC and Apple Mac suites
– Creative Cloud License (home and college use through student login)
– A fleet of DSLR and Mirrorless cameras
– ‘Cine’ grade cameras and lenses
– Photography studio with industry-standard lighting
– Podcast studio
– Dark Room
– Graphic tablets
– A range of DJI Gimbals
– Mini DJI drone
You will also have the opportunity to borrow equipment to use at home.
FAQs
Q: Do I need to buy an Apple Mac computer?
A: No, we have Mac labs where you can work on your projects and most students store their work on the cloud to access at home. However, it is recommended that you invest in a Mac or PC for home use that can run the Adobe CC software.
Q: Do I need to buy an expensive camera?
A: No, we have DLSR and Mirrorless cameras, with a range of prime and zooming lenses, that can be taken out on loan for your media projects.
Q: Do I need to bring anything with me when I start the course?
A: Yes, we advise all of our students to bring their own USB stick (no smaller than 64GB) to store their work, and their own SD cards to use in the DSLR / Mirrorless cameras.
Q: Does this course have exams?
A: There are no exams in this qualification, however, you will be assessed through formative coursework submissions at the end of each project, and a summative project at the end of each year.
Study Programme
Every full-time student at Petroc will have their own Study Programme which will include:
– Your academic or vocational qualification.
– Maths and English Language development – if you have not achieved GCSE grade 4 in either of these subjects.
– Work Experience – hours will vary depending on your qualification and course level.
– Tutor Support – to support your personal, academic and professional development.
– Sustainability – helping you to identify how you can improve the sustainability of your future employment sectors.
– Personal Development Awards – developing six key areas of personal and employability behaviours to prepare you for the working world.
Why Petroc should be your first choice
Petroc offers quality education and training across North and Mid Devon. We aim to provide outstanding learning, excellent facilities, strong connections to employers and a supportive environment to help you fulfil your education goals and set you on your path to the career of your dreams.
SUPPORTIVE
We offer a supportive and inclusive environment where you can flourish and feel a valued member of the college and wider community.Â
INSPIRING
Our teaching spaces and facilities are some of the best in the region, providing stimulating and true-to-life learning environments.Â
CONNECTED
We’ll provide you with the experiences you need to be ready for employment or the next step on your educational journey.