This Access to Higher Education Diploma is a nationally recognised Level 3 qualification designed to help you progress to university and pursue a new future career.
Earn up to 144 UCAS tariff points and prepare for degree-level study through coursework-based assessment, without the need for traditional exams.
Pay monthly options available in checkout.
This course is typically completed within one year. You should plan to dedicate around 10 hours per week to independent study alongside your coursework.
An assessment schedule will be provided at the start of your course, clearly outlining when assignments are released and their submission deadlines to help you stay organised.
On successful completion, you will achieve an Access to Higher Education Diploma in Creative Industries: Photography and Media, a nationally recognised Level 3 qualification that supports progression to university study.
Applicants must be aged 19 or over. You will usually need GCSE English Language and Maths at grade 4 (C) or above, although equivalent qualifications such as Functional Skills Level 2 in English and Maths may also be accepted.
If you are unsure whether you meet the requirements, our team will be happy to advise you.
This course is assessed entirely through coursework, with no formal exams. You will complete a range of assignments, including written tasks, presentations and reports, designed to prepare you for degree-level study.
The Access to Higher Education Diploma in Creative Industries: Photography and Media is a nationally recognised Level 3 qualification designed for adults who want to progress to university and build a career in visual and digital media.
Whether you’re returning to education or looking to develop your creative skills further, this course provides a flexible and supportive pathway into higher education. You’ll explore photography, media production and visual storytelling, alongside the academic skills needed for degree-level study.
Delivered online, the course allows you to study around your lifestyle while preparing for progression to university courses such as photography, media production, film, digital content creation and related creative disciplines.
This diploma combines creative practice with essential academic skills to prepare you for higher education and careers in the creative industries.
You will complete a total of 60 credits, including graded subject units and ungraded study skills modules.
You’ll explore how images and media are created, edited and used to communicate ideas, while developing your own creative style and portfolio.
Units can be adapted to align with your chosen university degree and its specific entry requirements. If you have a particular course or creative pathway in mind, our team can help tailor your studies to support your progression.
On successful completion, you will achieve an Access to Higher Education Diploma (Creative Industries: Photography and Media), a Level 3 qualification awarded by AIM Qualifications and Assessment Group.
This qualification is regulated by the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education (QAA) and is widely accepted by universities across the UK.
Study from anywhere in the UK with full access to your learning materials online. The course is designed to fit around your lifestyle, allowing you to balance study with work and other commitments.
This course supports progression to a wide range of university degrees and career pathways, including:
It can also lead to careers in photography, media production, content creation, social media, advertising and creative industries.
You’ll receive ongoing support from experienced tutors, including one-to-one sessions, personalised feedback and guidance throughout your course to help you develop your creative practice and academic skills.
There are no formal exams. Instead, you will be assessed through coursework such as essays, reports, case studies and presentations, helping you develop the skills needed for university-level study.
No prior experience is required. The course is designed to help you develop your skills from your current level.
Yes, you will develop a portfolio of work throughout the course, which can support your university applications.
Basic access to a camera (including a smartphone) and a computer is recommended. Guidance will be provided on suitable tools and software.
Assessment is based entirely on coursework, including practical and written assignments.
Most learners complete the course within 9–12 months, depending on their pace of study and availability.
