Basics of Creative Coding (Level 4)

Course length: 240 study hours on-demand, up to 1 year

Start dates for Short Courses at NUA:

January 2023
April 2023

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.

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.

The course carries 30 credits and is expected to take around 240 study hours. 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.

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.

Whilst you are studying, you will enjoy the benefits of being part of the Norwich University of the Arts community – access to our library, our Virtual Learning Environment (VLE), the support of our employability and business start-up team and at the end of your course we will invite you to our campus to celebrate your achievement.

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.

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

UK and International: Completion of a Level 3 qualification 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 £2,310 for the year 2023/24. 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@nua.ac.uk.