About the course

This is a full-time course over one year, using a range of assessment methods including assignments, presentations to industry professionals, coursework and live briefs. These will aim to develop the skills, knowledge and understanding relevant to specific creative activities in app design and in the creation of your own professional portfolio. Experienced teaching staff will provide industry standard training in a wide range of practical and theoretical areas to ensure you are well prepared for progression into university, apprenticeships or into industry where there is a need for an app. You will work in our dedicated Creative Industries Centre and have access to specialist equipment.

Entry requirements

4 GCSEs at grade 4 or equivalent ideally including English and maths.

How much does it cost?

Free to those aged 16-18. If you are aged 19+ you can apply for an Advanced Learner Loan.

There is a range of financial support that you may be entitled to, including: Learner Support funds, grants and bursaries and employer support.

Charge of £100 for the 1 year programme or £200 for the 2 Year programme. Fees cover the costs for gaming equipment, studios, Mac/PC editing software, exhibitions and compulsory trips. 

Why study?

You will study a range of practical and theory-based work including research, evaluations, drawing/sketching, digital graphics, animation, AR and app development coding platforms (Swift), which will open doors to several areas for further study.

Where will this course take me?

Possible careers:

• Mobile App Developers
• UX/UI Designer
• Backend Engineers
• App project Manager
• App marketer

Core modules

The Diploma is made upon the accumulation of 72 credits from the units studied. These units may include:

• The Creative Process
• Developing Creative Practice
• Responding to a set brief

The Extended Diploma second year is made upon the total accumulation of 144 credits from the units studied. These units may include:

• Researching a Specialist Industry Practice
• Specialist Technical Skills Development
• Specialist Creative Outcome

How will I be assessed?

There are no exams on the Level 3 Diploma/ Extended Diploma in App Design. You will be assessed on the projects you complete in class during the year and your final grade for the qualification (Pass, Merit, Distinction) is based on your final project.