A Higher Diploma is equivalent in size and value to 7 GCSEs at grades A*-C. This Diploma is designed to equip learners with the essential creative skills, knowledge and understanding to succeed within the creative industries.
The Principal Learning comprises 7 units of study:
You will work on a number of projects which allow you to explore creative ideas and ways of working. You could, for example, work in a team to create a site-specific performance. This could include dance, music and drama, as well as film and textiles. You would research the history of the site and how to incorporate this into your performance, and study how other performers plan their work and combine different disciplines.
Or you might respond to a real brief from a local company to design a promotional website for their products. This might include photographing their products, designing the web pages, writing the content and then presenting your ideas to the company.
The activities you will take part in have been designed to develop your personal learning and thinking skills (PLTS) and the Functional Skills of Maths, English and IT at Level 2. You will also undertake a personal project.
The whole Diploma package will also include another Level 2 course that can be studied alongside the Diploma.
At least 10 days work experience forms an essential part of this course.
You will be taught by a team of dedicated professionals many of whom are specialist artists and designers in their own right. Project assignments will have a real life and creative industries focus.
Each unit of the Higher Diploma is assessed through assignments which reflect the aim of each unit. One unit will be externally assessed.
After successful completion of the Creative and Media Higher Diploma you could progress on to the Creative and Media Advanced Diploma or another Level 3 Diploma, a National Diploma in a specialist subject or A Levels.
5 GCSEs at grade D or above or another Level 1 qualification.
For further guidance and advice contact the Careers team on 01823 366 331, or email enquiries@somerset.ac.uk