DipHE Creative and Digital Media - John Hoey

What made you want to pursue a programme in this area?

I’ve always had a creative flair. I’ve previously been involved in dance and am interested in filmmaking, photography and creative outputs. During covid my direction of travel changed from being involved in dance and teaching dance to more of a focus on media and film, which has really become my creative passion. 

Why did you choose to study this Level 5 Institute of Technology programme as opposed to a traditional degree?

I have previously done a marketing apprenticeship with Salford City Council and the Level 5 DipHE in Creative Media provided me with the perfect opportunity to build on that apprenticeship and get a qualification in creative media. It gives me the step up to be industry-ready in a creative field. There is also an option in the future to specialise via a top-up programme. The fact that this programme is shorter gives me the perfect opportunity to get a great grounding in creative media without needing to choose a specialism from the get-go. Once I’ve completed this programme and have a better understanding and idea of the career I would like to go into, I can then choose my specialism. 

What does your programme involve?

The programme is really practical, which is great and complements the way I learn. I’m not massively into heavy written assignments. You get graded on your practical work, such as video and content creation, which is brilliant and the feedback is invaluable. 

The course gives you a good grounding in all areas of creative content creation, so you get a good understanding of all the different elements including marketing, social media, video etc. so you can see how this would all fit together for a full client brief. 

We’ve got a module coming up next year about building our own bran,d which will be great and give us a good opportunity to think about building our own portfolios for future jobs in the creative industry. 

What are your plans following completion of the programme?

I’d love to work in the music and/or sports industry, creating content for sports teams or supporting individuals working in the music industry to build their brand. I’d like to work as a freelancer and this programme gives me a good understanding of how to go about this. 

Are you currently employed? 

Yes, I am currently working for a charity called Inspiring Communities Together, which delivers a wide range of programmes and initiatives across Salford and beyond. I am the Digital Manager and manage the marketing for the charity.  I can use what I am learning on the programme and put it into practice in my role, which is great. 

What would you say to someone considering studying this programme?

Give it a go! You learn a lot and the industry experience of the tutors is invaluable. You also learn from your peers who bring varying levels of experience to the classroom. You will get out of it what you put in though so ask questions, build your portfolio and make use of the great industry insights and experience of the tutors.