Peterlee Campus
Course overview
This qualification is designed for people who want to turn their creative ideas into a sustainable career. It focuses on business and enterprise skills across the creative industries and supports those planning to work as a freelance artist or set up a creative micro-business.
You may already be working in the creative sector and looking to broaden your skill set, or you might be preparing to progress to a higher-level qualification. This course helps you build the confidence, knowledge and practical experience needed to take your next step.
You will work both independently and collaboratively, using college resources and learning from industry practitioners across different areas of the creative sector.
This real-world approach helps you understand how creative businesses operate and how to position yourself professionally within the industry.
Topics
The programme is 'learner responsive', which means we build projects around the learners who have chosen this programme of study.
There are three focus areas in the programme: Creative Entrepreneur, Creative practitioner and Creative Enterprise. You will explore business models and entrepreneurship through your own creative pathway, whilst working collaboratively with other artists to engage in practical projects.
Job opportunities after this course
On successful completion of this programme you could work in the sector as a performer, production specialist, visual artist, media specialist or arts administrator.
Further study options after this course
Successful completion of the UAL L4 Professional Diploma in Creative Enterprise could see you progress into higher education at university or a specialist arts institute to study on a full degree programme.
Entry requirements
You will need to have a full Level 3 qualification, such as a UAL L3 Extended Diploma in Creative Practice / Creative Media Production & Technology / Music Performance & Production / Performing & Production Arts, or similar full L3 qualification.
You will need to have a L2 qualification in maths and English (or be willing to study alongside your main programme).
Entry will be subject to an application, which will include an audition or portfolio of work and an interview.
For the latest qualifications and grades required by course type/level, please follow this link to check the most up-to-date entry criteria for direct entry and internal progression at the college.
How is this course assessed?
The course is made up of three units.
The first two units are formatively assessed and graded pass or fail.
You must successfully complete both of these units to progress to the third and final unit.
The final unit is student-led and summatively assessed, with grades awarded at pass, merit or distinction.
Your work will be assessed internally by an assessor and then internally and externally verified to make sure marking is fair and consistent.
Assessment methods include
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live performances
* exhibitions
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digital video
* audio work
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written submissions
All assessment evidence is recorded in a digital portfolio.
When does the course start?
September 2026
Length of course
The UAL Level 4 Professional Diploma in Creative Enterprise is a one year programme starting in September 2026 and completing early July 2027.
Sessions will be delivered on site, with some days and early evening delivery (days / times tbc).
Fees & Funding
Please read our Course Fees & Funding page.
How to apply
To apply online for this course, please click on the 'Apply' button at the top/bottom of this page.
Alternatively, if you need assistance with your application or you would like to apply over the phone or using a paper-based application form, please call Student Services on 0191 518 8222.
If you're not quite ready to apply for this course and would like some more information or to speak to a member of staff then please click on the 'Enquire' button at the top/bottom of this page.
