Creative Media Production and Technology: Audio Production - Level 3 Extended Diploma (UAL)

This course is accredited by the University of the Arts London (UAL).

This is a specialist pathway in audio production, designed for students passionate about sound and its role in creative media. The course provides advanced training in the technical and creative aspects of audio production, preparing you for further study or employment in the dynamic audio and media industries.

You will explore key areas of audio production, including sound recording, editing, and mixing for film, television, and digital platforms. You’ll also develop skills in foley techniques, learning how to create and record custom sound effects to bring scenes to life. Other areas of focus include podcast production, sound design for video games, music production, live sound, and audio post-production.

The course gives you hands-on experience with industry-standard equipment and software. You’ll work with professional audio recorders, microphones, and mixing consoles, as well as advanced digital audio workstations (DAWs) such as Pro Tools, Logic Pro, and Adobe Audition. You’ll also learn how to use foley props, sound libraries, and audio editing tools to craft immersive soundscapes.

Extended Diplomas have two one-year programmes. You need to finish the first year before moving on to the second.

This specialist course is designed for students who are passionate about sound and want to explore the creative and technical world of audio production. Whether you're interested in music production, podcasting, sound design or audio for film, this course gives you the skills and experience to thrive in today’s audio and media industries.

You’ll gain hands-on experience in studio recording, mixing, editing and sound design, using industry-standard software and hardware. You’ll also explore how audio communicates meaning, atmosphere and emotion across different media platforms.

Modules can include:

• Introduction to Media Processes and Technical Skills: Develop essential audio production skills, including microphone techniques, recording processes, and using DAWs like Logic Pro or Ableton.
• Introduction to Design and Research Skills: Investigate audio trends, genres, audiences and technologies to support your creative decisions.
• Responding to a Media Brief: Produce a piece of audio content — such as a podcast, radio segment or soundscape — in response to a given theme.
• Exploring Audio-Visual Production and Technology: Collaborate on audio-led projects such as film soundtracks, experimental sound pieces, or music videos.
• Personal Progression and Final Project: Plan and produce a self-directed audio project, build a professional portfolio and prepare for higher education or work in the sound industry.

To join this course, you should have:

• 4 GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English or Maths.

Or

• A relevant Level 2 qualification (such as a UAL Level 2 Diploma in Creative Media or similar), with a Merit or Distinction, plus GCSE English or Maths at grade 4 or above.

We also welcome applications from students with creative potential and a strong interest in media and technology, even if they don’t meet all academic criteria. In these cases, we may ask for:

• A portfolio of creative work (this could include photography, video, digital art, or AI experiments).
• Attend an interview or taster session.

This course is 100% coursework-based, with no formal exams. Assessment is ongoing and based on practical projects, technical experimentation, critical reflection, and portfolio development. You’ll be assessed on your ability to plan, produce, and evaluate creative audio content across a variety of genres and platforms.

• Planning and producing podcasts, soundscapes, music tracks, radio segments or audio for screen
• Recording and mixing using industry-standard software (e.g. Logic Pro, Ableton, Pro Tools)
• Experimenting with Foley, ambient sound, dialogue, music and sound effects
• Pre-production materials (scripts, treatments, production plans, risk assessments)
• Technical logs (documenting equipment, settings, and workflows)
• Research files (analysing audio formats, target audiences and industry standards)
• Project evaluations and reflective journals

AGED 16 - 18

If you will be aged 16, 17 or 18 on 31st August 2025 before the start date of the course, and you have the legal right to remain in the UK for the duration of your course then your study with us will be free.

Please see here for the documents you need to show us.

Some courses have additional costs, such as specialist materials and trips.

Many of our students are eligible for financial support. See here for details.

This course prepares students for progression into a wide range of audio and media-related careers, as well as higher education. Upon completion, learners are well equipped to apply for university-level courses in fields such as Music Production, Sound Engineering, Audio Post-Production, Radio and Podcasting, Sound Design for Film and Games, and Creative Music Technology. Students may also progress to apprenticeships or entry-level roles within the audio, broadcast, or digital media sectors.

Throughout the course, students develop a strong foundation in sound recording, editing, mixing, and producing content for various platforms — including radio, podcasts, music, and audio-visual projects. They gain valuable experience using industry-standard software and hardware, while also learning how to respond creatively to briefs, collaborate with others, and reflect critically on their practice.

Transferable skills in project management, research, communication, and digital literacy ensure learners are prepared for both creative and professional environments. Students leave the course with a robust portfolio or showreel, showcasing their technical abilities and creative identity.

Potential career paths include sound designer, music producer, podcast editor, live sound technician, audio post-production assistant, and radio presenter. This course offers the technical fluency and creative confidence to take the next step into a dynamic and growing industry.