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Creative technology student at Norwich University of the Arts holds a mouse next to a keyboard, tablet and a screen
A colourful wall of code on a computer screen

Basics of Creative Coding (Level 4)

Key information

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Level 4 Basics of Creative Coding is a new online short course for anyone who is interested in developing creative programming skills, either as a way of getting a job in this area, or as a first step into higher education. It has been designed in collaboration with employers to ensure that it is industry focused. If you are looking for opportunities in the working world of software development and have either completed a Level 3 qualification or can show through your experience that you are ready to start the course, this course could be the right course for you. No previous experience of computer programming is necessary.

Shortly after your course begins you will be invited to a real-time introductory session. At this event, you will meet your tutor and other short course students. You will find out about how the course works and have chance to ask questions. Beyond this point, you will undertake your studies at your own pace, with a full year to complete the course. Course tutors will stay in touch with you throughout, to keep you on track, and connect you to other learners. Our course staff are experienced industry professionals, grounding you in the technical skills you need whilst supporting your creative and design development.

Throughout the course you will track your own development using the university Profile system, which will help you capture your progress and the evidence you build of your skills. Profile is also home to our Employability resources and the University’s job page to help connect you to the right opportunities when you complete your qualification.

After studying this short course you could progress to a full undergraduate degree. You could also seek work in a variety of technology-based sectors. You will develop knowledge and skills which would support you in front-end web development, app development, creative software development and more. You will complete this short course with a portfolio of independent project work, a portfolio of research and industry analysis.

  • Creative technology student at Norwich University of the Arts holds a mouse next to a keyboard, tablet and a screen
  • A colourful wall of code on a computer screen

Course details

Shortly after your course begins you will be invited to a real-time introductory session. At this event, you will meet your tutor and other short course students. You will find out about how the course works and have chance to ask questions. Beyond this point, you will undertake your studies at your own pace, with a full year to complete the course.

Introductory Studies (30 credits)

This is a stand-alone unit for students wishing to embark on level 4 study in an area they are not yet
familiar with. You will be introduced to the basics of the subject and gain experience in practicing it through one or more specific projects. You will be look at methods for gathering information and data and investigate the ways in which that information can be interpreted.

You will build basic skills in coding and software design that are in high demand in the digital and creative industries. Many people know how to use software packages or enjoy customising digital products such as games  – but not as many know how to create using coding themselves. The ability to combine coding with creative and design skills is in high demand in the job market – with jobs ranging from creative software developer and web developer to creative data technician in VFX.

Topics covered in this unit:

  • Industry skills with technology and processes
  • Understanding creative practice
  • Design Thinking
  • Prototyping
  • Finding and interpreting research and data
  • Communication Skills

The course carries 30 credits and is expected to take around 240 study hours, divided into 8 teaching blocks of 30 study hours each. How you complete your study is up to you, as you can fit flexibly around your life. All you need is access to a computer, as you can access the software you need through the university virtual desktop. You will have access to the course resources for a full year, so will have plenty of time to complete the course.

Learning and teaching

The Level 6 Short Course is an online course. Learning and teaching involve working your way through a series of online asynchronous modules to complete the Unit. Teaching sessions are recorded and provide links to online resources to support your learning.

  • As a part time asynchronous course, students progress at their own pace and are given 12 months (inclusive of assessment) to complete the course.

  • Students can fit the course around their other commitments and may complete the course in advance of the maximum registration period.

  • Independent learning complements the teaching you receive on your course and allows time for skills and knowledge to be developed.

  • Key aspects of learning develop through the acquisition of research skills, the generation and development of ideas, and independent study.

Assessment

Assessment is the process of evaluating or assessing your learning. Sometimes it will involve consideration of work in progress, while at others it concentrates on work which you have completed and submitted as assessment requirements for each unit of study.

The University assesses you through the coursework that you produce as you complete the unit. The unit will require that you present a portfolio of work which may include finished pieces of work, written work, your research, and a reflective journal which allows you to evaluate your learning and highlight your strengths and areas for further development.

You will be guided through the specific areas of work in which you will be engaged to produce the work required for assessment and so successfully achieve the unit learning outcomes.

Some of the people you’ll be working with

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Look around our city-centre campus, and you will find studios, media labs, and creative spaces in 13 buildings that sit among the cafés, bars, independent galleries and shops of Norwich’s cultural quarter.

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92% of our graduates are in employment or further education within six months of graduating”

Graduate Outcomes 2021

Entry requirements

UK and International: Completion of an undergraduate degree or sufficient evidence provided through work experience to show you are ready for the course.

Course Fees

The Course fee for one of our short courses for both home and international students is £2,384 for the year 2025/26. For UK or EU settled students living in England, these short courses are eligible for Higher Education Short Course Loans.

Course-related costs not included in the fees

It is expected that you will have access to your own computer. As the learning is online it will be necessary for you to have a secure internet connection and an up-to-date web browser to enable you to access materials and engage with the virtual learning environment.

Sources of Financial Support

For UK or EU settled students living in England, these short courses are eligible for Higher Education Short Course Loans from Student Finance England. The Student Support office can provide information about student money; they can be contacted at student.finance@norwichuni.ac.uk.

How to apply

Applications to our short courses should be made directly to Norwich University of the Arts using the Short Course Application Form.

Short Course Application Form

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