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UAL Level 3 Applied General Diploma in Art & Design – Photography
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Overview
The Level 3 Applied General Diploma will introduce you to the skills needed to enter in to the photography profession. The teaching team are still currently active in the industry bringing with them real life experience and opportunities to the classroom environment.
The course is equivalent to 1.5 A levels.
How you’ll learn
Students learn to develop and print their own photographs using traditional wet-based darkroom techniques alongside digital skills and techniques.
- Recognise how visual language informs art and design
- Understand visual and contextual research to inform ideas
- Use reflective and evaluative skills to inform own progress and practice
- Plan, develop and present an art and design project
Entry and progression
What you need and where it leads
- Entry requirements
- This course Level 3
- Further study
Entry requirements
5 GCSE’s Grade 4 or above, Including English and Maths
Students are also expected to bring a portfolio to show their creative abilities.
Not sure you meet these? Talk to us and we will help you find the right starting point.
Careers it can lead to
- Photographers, Audio-visual and Broadcasting Equipment Operators £27,800 a year
- Artists £35,100 a year
- Glass and Ceramics Makers, Decorators and Finishers £27,100 a year
- TV, Video and Audio Servicers and Repairers £30,900 a year
See all 6 careers
- Furniture Makers and Other Craft Woodworkers £35,000 a year
With further study or experience
- Graphic and Multimedia Designers £26,400 a year
Typical pay is the UK median for each job (Lightcast, October 2026).
Life on the course
See what it’s really like
Student Voice
“
I’ve learnt to be more independent and really enjoyed using the studio and editing photos. I plan to carry on with photography. Being at Doncaster College has been great—it’s not just about cameras but also setting up the studio and learning new skills.
For parents and carers
Supporting your child’s journey
A Friendly, Welcoming Place
Students are often surprised by how friendly and welcoming college is. It's a supportive community where they'll build genuine friendships and feel part of something.
About student lifeQualifications That Count
These are nationally recognised qualifications with real academic weight. Your child will develop practical skills and knowledge that employers and universities genuinely value.
See the full unit listGCSE Support Built In
If your child needs to resit GCSE English or Maths, it's built into the timetable, not bolted on as an extra. They'll get structured support alongside their main course.
About student supportLearning Support
If your child has additional learning needs, our support team works with them from day one. Adjustments are put in place early so they can get the most out of their course.
About learning supportYour next step
Apply now, come and see us first, or ask us anything.
Want to visit first?
FE Open Event – 12th January 202712th January 4:30pm to 7:00pm
Got a question?
Ask us about the course, entry requirements or funding.
Call 0800 358 7575
What happens after you apply
1
You apply
Apply online and you’ll get a confirmation email.
2
You meet your tutor
We’ll invite you to an interview to talk through the course and your plans, and make sure it’s right for you.
3
You get an offer
We’ll email you a conditional or unconditional offer.
4
You get ready to start
Come to a taster session in the summer, then enrol in August, bringing your results.