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Fashion Communication Extended Diploma Level 3

  • 3

    Level
    Level 3

  • Duration
    2 years

  • Start Date
    September 2025

  • Venue
    City College Norwich campus

  • Course Code
    A0335

Start Date

  • September 2025, Full Time, Day

Summary

During this two-year course, students work towards the University of the Arts London (UAL) Level 3 Extended Diploma in Fashion, Business and Retail. The Extended Diploma at Distinction level is allocated 168 UCAS points, which is equivalent to 3 full A Levels at grade A.

This course provides an opportunity for those with an interest in fashion to explore, develop and test their creativity within a qualification structure which is both stimulating and demanding, and provides a supportive transition from general to more specialised study.

Follow @ccnfashcomms on Instagram for updates and examples of current student work.

Why our college?

Industry standard facilities

At our college you will have access to industry-standard facilities and get to use top of the range equipment. On our campus you’ll find media suites, TV studios, design labs, workshops, hair & beauty salons, working kitchens and a live theatre.

Gain real experiences of work

All of our courses will provide you with outstanding experiences of work and prepare you for your future career. You will work with real employers and customers and build connections.

A unique student experience

This is what really sets us apart. At our college you will experience the freedom to be yourself. Being part of an active Students’ Union, having opportunities to travel and enjoying live entertainment are just a few of the amazing opportunities available to you.

Entry Requirements

Achieve 4 GCSE's at grade 4 or above, including English Language, Maths and Art & Design (or an art-related subject).

Learning Outcomes

This two year course will enable students to:
1 Have a critical and contextual awareness of different perspectives and approaches within fashion business and retail or related subjects of study or work.
2 Research, analyse and evaluate relevant information and ideas in order to develop creative solutions.
3 Understand, adapt and safely use appropriate and practical methods and skills for creative production.
4 Solve complex problems through the application of practical, theoretical and technical understanding.
5 Critically review the effectiveness and appropriateness of methods, actions and results.
6 Use evaluative and reflective skills in order to take responsibility for own learning, development and decision-making.
7 Take responsibility for the research, planning, time-management and actions to access progression opportunities.
8 Effectively present themselves and their work to appropriate audiences

Objective

The Level 3 Extended Diploma in Fashion Business & Retail are designed to provide students with the knowledge, skills and understanding necessary to access and progress to degree level study or employment in the fashion retail sector. The final unit of the Extended Diploma, requires students to demonstrate the independent capacity to self-initiate, research, analyse, organise, reflect and evaluate, commensurate with study in Higher Education.

Assessment

The University of the Arts London (UAL) Level 3 Fashion, Business and Retail Diploma is assessed through a series of projects that are designed to broaden student’s skills, experience and expertise. The projects are multi-disciplinary and require students to work collaboratively and pro-actively with fellow students as well as external clients and stakeholders. A final end-point assessment (commonly referred to as the Final Major Project) decides the student’s overall grade for the year which is graded at: PASS/HIGH PASS; MERIT/HIGH MERIT or DISTINCTION. The Extended Diploma accrues the following UCAS points: PASS (72); HIGH PASS (96); MERIT (120); HIGH MERIT (144); DISTINCTION (168)

Student work is externally assessed and scrutinised by External Verifiers from the University of the Arts London to ensure that academic standards are adhered maintained.

Progression

Our students consistently secure their first choice university place and excel on their chosen BA (Hons) degrees. Most students progress on to study degrees in Fashion Communication and Promotion, Fashion Marketing and Fashion Buying and Merchandising.

Career Progression

City College Norwich is a member of the University of the Arts London Progression Partnership to promote the recruitment of talented, creative students from high quality further education institutions to UAL higher education degree level courses. The course team also work with local and national higher education providers such as NUA, London College of Communication and London College of Fashion to ensure that our students are ready and prepared for their next step. We also work collaboratively with local, national and international artists and creative agencies to provide fantastic experience of work for our students and also to ensure that our courses prepare students well for their future careers in the industry. City College Norwich also has an outstanding Apprenticeship team who can provide advice and guidance for students wishing to follow an Apprenticeship route into the industry.

Fees

If you are a UK or home fee status student and aged 16-18 on the 31st August before the start of your course, tuition fees are free. If you are aged 19 and over please contact the Advice Shop. In addition to this there will be costs for UK trips and visits of approximately £50.

Where Next?

Why our college?

Industry standard facilities

At our college you will have access to industry-standard facilities and get to use top of the range equipment. On our campus you’ll find media suites, TV studios, design labs, workshops, hair & beauty salons, working kitchens and a live theatre.

Gain real experiences of work

All of our courses will provide you with outstanding experiences of work and prepare you for your future career. You will work with real employers and customers and build connections.

A unique student experience

This is what really sets us apart. At our college you will experience the freedom to be yourself. Being part of an active Students’ Union, having opportunities to travel and enjoying live entertainment are just a few of the amazing opportunities available to you.