BTEC in Art & Media

The BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Art and Design is a two-year vocational programme equivalent to three A levels. It is designed for learners aiming to progress to higher education in creative disciplines or to careers in the visual arts and design industries. The course provides a balance of practical studio work, contextual study, and critical reflection, enabling students to explore ideas, develop technical proficiency, and build a substantial creative portfolio.

Subject content

Students complete 13 units in total: 8 mandatory and 5 optional.

Mandatory units (core content):

• Visual Recording and Communication – developing drawing, photography, and mixed-media techniques to record observations.

  
  

• Critical and Contextual Studies in Art and Design – analysis of artists, designers, movements, and how context influences creative practice.

  
  

• The Creative Process – exploring and developing ideas through experimentation and reflection.

  
  

• Materials, Techniques and Processes in Art and Design – working with a range of media and methods, from printmaking to sculpture.

  
  

• Developing an Art and Design Project – planning, producing, and presenting a self-directed project.

  
  

• Managing a Client-Focused Project – working to a live brief, developing professional approaches to time management and client communication.

  
  

• Developing and Realising Creative Intentions – refining creative ideas and producing resolved outcomes for exhibition.

  
  

• Final Major Project in Art and Design – a synoptic project demonstrating independent research, creativity, and technical skill.

Optional units (examples, depending on centre focus):

• Textile Design

• 3D Design and Craft

• Photography

• Graphics and Communication Design

• Fine Art Materials and Techniques

• Fashion and Styling

• Animation and Motion Graphics

• Surface Pattern Design

  
  

Optional units allow learners to specialise in particular creative areas aligned with progression goals.

Assessment

The Extended Diploma uses a blend of internal and external assessment:

• External assessment (around 40%): Pearson-set controlled assignments, including the Final Major Project.

  
  

• Internal assessment (around 60%): portfolios, sketchbooks, practical outcomes, presentations, and written evaluations assessed by tutors.

  
  

This approach allows learners to demonstrate both professional practice and the ability to respond to structured briefs.

Progression routes

The qualification is widely recognised by higher education providers, creative employers, and professional bodies. Common progression pathways include:

• Higher education: Degrees in fine art, graphic design, fashion, illustration, photography, product design, interior design, animation, or architecture (with a portfolio).

  
  

• Employment and apprenticeships: Junior roles in design studios, creative agencies, galleries, fashion, crafts, or freelance practice.

  
  

• Professional development: The course equips learners with the portfolio and skills required to access foundation diplomas or direct entry to art schools.

Transferable skills gained

In addition to technical and creative abilities, students develop a wide set of transferable skills:

• Creativity and innovation: generating and developing original ideas.

  
  

• Practical competence: working confidently with varied materials, techniques, and technologies.

  
  

• Research and analysis: investigating artists, trends, and cultural contexts to inform practice.

  
  

• Project management: planning, organising, and delivering creative projects to deadlines.

  
  

• Communication and presentation: articulating ideas visually and verbally, and presenting work professionally.

  
  

• Collaboration and professionalism: responding to live briefs, working with clients, and preparing for industry expectations.