OCR Level 3 Cambridge Technical in Art and Design

Programme outline: 

A suite of vocational qualifications designed to provide practical, work-related learning in the creative sector, with specialist pathways in areas like photography, graphic design, and fine art. The qualifications are internally assessed and externally moderated by OCR 

Focus: The qualifications are technical-level and offer a practical approach to learning, allowing students to develop knowledge and skills through real-world, relevant projects and engagement with industry work practices. 

Pathways: There are specialist pathways available in photography, graphic design, 3D design, fashion, and fine art. 

Assessment: All units are internally assessed by centre assessors and quality assured through external moderation by an OCR Visiting Moderator. There are no external exams in this suite. 

Qualifications in this suite: 

Certificate in Art and Design 

Introductory Diploma 

Subsidiary Diploma 

Diploma 

Extended Diploma 

Key Units: 

Students select a combination of mandatory and optional units to achieve different qualification sizes (Certificate, Diploma, etc.). Optional units allow for specialisation.  

Art and Design in Context (Unit 01): Learners understand the work of artists or designers within a movement, style, period, culture, or theme and develop ideas influenced by this work. 

2D media, materials, and techniques (Unit 10): Focuses on understanding and using various 2D media and techniques. 

3D media, materials, and techniques (Unit 11): Focuses on understanding the use of 3D materials, processes, and safe working practices. 

Exploring photography (Unit 20): Develops skills in digital photography, from planning and research to producing and presenting a final outcome. 

Exploring graphic design and illustration (Unit 30): Focuses on the principles and practices of graphic design and illustration. 

Exploring 3D (Unit 40): Allows students to explore the breadth of 3D design options and produce a 3D outcome 

Entry Requirements: 

Students looking for a practical, work-related qualification 

Students looking to go into further/higher education 

Typically requires GCSEs at grade 4 or above in Maths and English or working towards this. 

Desirable- Level 2 qualification in a relevant subject. 

Progression:  

This qualification is recognised by UCAS and provides points for entry to a wide range of higher education programmes, as well as enabling access to apprenticeships or direct employment in the art and design sector. 

Key equivalences by size: 

Extended Certificate: Equivalent to one A Level. 

Diploma: Equivalent to two A Levels. 

Extended Diploma: Equivalent to three A