What is a Vocational Course?

Vocational Courses offer coursework-based learning, hands-on skills development and fewer exams than their academic alternatives. 

Vocational study offers the opportunity for exciting trips, activities and visits, paving the way to your dream career or progression to university or an apprenticeship.

Depending on your GCSE grades and the vocational area you choose, there are three levels of study available, lasting between one and four years.

They cover a wide range of topics, from Art and Design to Construction – often further broken down into specific disciplines, like Graphic Communication or Plastering.

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Which Level is Right for Me?

If you’re a School Leaver, you will most likely start on a Level 3 Vocational Course, which could be a which is equivalent to three A Levels.

Vocational Course can span multiple levels though for people at different stages of education – from entry level (Level 1) to HNCs and HNDs (Levels 4 and 5).

A Vocational Course can lead you directly from College straight into working in the industry of your choice, or on to University. The choice is yours.

The Benefits of Vocational Courses

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What Subjects Can I Study?

Applied Science

Applied Science gives you the skills to apply scientific concepts practically. Gain skills such as Critical Thinking, Problem Solving, Analytical Skills and more leading to potential careers in:

Allied Health Care | Biomedical Science | Clinical Science | Immunology | Laboratory Technician | Microbiologist | Midwife | Nurse | Nutritionist | Pharmacist | Physiotherapist | Radiographer | Veterinary Nurse

Bring your creative visions to life in an exciting and eclectic global industry. Develop your existing talents, your critical appreciation of yours and other’s work and discover your place in this fascinating industry.

Architect | Art Historian | Commercial Artist | Digital Illustrator | Fashion Designer | Fashion Forecaster | Graphic Designer | Interior Designer | Photographer | Promotion and Brand Manager | Prop Designer | Art Director | Stylist | Creative Advertiser | Gallery Curator

Are you passionate about the world of beauty and eager to turn your enthusiasm into a rewarding career?

Open the door to endless possibilities from working in luxurious spas to becoming a freelance beauty consultant. Embark on an exciting journey where you will both transform your skills and inspire confidence in others.

Beauty Therapist | Self-employed Beauty Therapist | Mobile Beauty Therapist | Facial Skincare Therapist | Waxing Therapist | Eyebrow and Lash Artist

In a rewarding career as a high-level Sales Director, Marketing Officer, Finance Chief or Chief Executive running an international company, a solid foundation in fundamental business skills is essential

Accountant | Business Owner | Entrepreneur | Data Analyst | Digital Marketer | Economist | Financial Advisor | Human Resources | Professional | Investment Banker | Marketing Executive | Project Manager | Retail Manager | Sales Executive | Stockbroker | Supply Chain Manager

The power, influence and reach of the digital world into our everyday lives grows every year.

This field offers one of the most diverse range of career opportunities, enabling you to set your sights on your chosen industry as an IT specialist, tackling fraud, cyber security or in a creative design role.

Animator | Big Data Architect | Computer Scientist | Cyber Security Analyst | Data Analyst | IT Consultant | IT Technician | Networking Specialist | Programmer | Project Manager | SEO Specialist | Software Developer | Web Designer | Web Developer

One of the most exciting, varied and dynamic sectors to work in, there are a range of specialisms to choose from to build a career in the industry.

From big builds for multi-national corporations to home repairs, cutting-edge industrial experts to skilled tradespeople, Burnley College focuses on the needs of industry both now and in the future.

Architect | Building Site Manager | Electrician | Quantity Surveyor | Plumber | Service Engineer | Sustainability Consultant
Passionate, vibrant, outstanding, enthusiastic, captivating. Just some of the words which can be used to describe our Dance and Performing Arts Students. Unrivalled teaching combined with incredible industry connections means our students progress to leading dance and drama schools and onto the international stage.
Actor | Arts Engagement Officer | Broadcast Presenter | Community Arts Worker | Choreographer | Creative Producer | Dancer | Director | Lecturer | Music Therapist | Performing Artist | Project Manager | Theatre Stage Manager
The focus on building futures and changing lives is in our DNA. If you have the passion and commitment, our expert tutors will help you focus on your goals supporting you every step of the way. Whether your dream is to teach or support young people to reach their full potential, a qualification in this field will open the door to a fulfilling career.
Community Development Worker | Counsellor | Early Years Teacher | Educational Psychologist | Family Support Worker | Health and Play Specialist | Paediatric Nurse | Psychologist | Social Worker | Speech and Language Therapist | Youth and Community Worker

Lancashire has a proud reputation for Engineering both nationally and globally; major employers with an international reach are based just steps from our innovative Campus.

With the latest cutting-edge technology, automation, robotics and advanced manufacturing techniques coupled with expert tutors, you will be given the very best opportunities to launch a successful career, progress to an Apprenticeship or university-level study.

Aerospace Engineer | Avionics Engineer | Composite Engineer | Design Engineer | Electronic Engineer | Maintenance Engineer | Mechanical Engineer | Product Designer | Robotics Researcher | Technical Support Engineer | Toolmaker

Are you ready to level you your career in Esports or Game Art? We offer hands-on experience in these high-tech industries with state of the art technology and award-winning tutors. Set off on the fast track to success in these fast-moving, thrilling industries.

Animator | App Developer | Concept Artist | Composer | Data Analyst | Esports Shoutcaster | Events Management | Games Designer | Marketing | Multimedia Programmer | Nutrition Advisor | Social Media Manager | Software Engineer | VFX Artist

The design and manufacture of furniture in Lancashire is a tradition which goes back decades and the county is home to some leading names in the industry.

Burnley College Sixth Form Centre students are making sure this proud tradition continues, learning from experienced tutors and making use of the industry-standard equipment and bespoke workshops to combine modern technology with traditional skills.

Exhibition Designer | Furniture | Furniture Restoration | Product Designer | Product Manager | Space Planner

Some people choose their own vocations, others follow their heart. What unites them is a passion to care for others, a desire to make a difference and a willingness to go above and beyond in everything they do.

From nursing to social work, hospitals to prisons, councils and more, there are many rewarding roles for those who want to make a career supporting others in need,

Care Worker | Midwife | Mental Health Worker | Nurse | Nutritionist | Occupational Therapist | Paramedic | Play Therapist | Probation Officer | Social Worker | Youth and Community Worker

The world of media is constantly expanding. If you have a smart phone and an idea, you can create your own podcast, social video or even full blown movie from your font room.

Our expert tutors will guide you through the creation of audio, video and more, putting your skills into practice to carve your career in this global, multi-billion-dollar industry.

Animator | Cinematographer | Editor | Filmmaker | Graphic Designer | Journalist | Market Researcher | Photographer | Social Media Manager | Sound Technician | TV Producer

The world music is a vast field which isn’t reserved solely for musicians. There are vital roles for producers, sound engineers, technicians, venue managers and more.

All these roles require an expert knowledge of the music industry and experience of the technology used. You’ll receive that through the experienced tutors, excellent, custom-built studio spaces and industry contacts.

Events Manager | Musician | Musical Arranger | Music Therapist | Radio Producer | Researcher | Sound Technician | Sound Engineer | Tour Manager | Venue Manager

The Olympic Games, The Three Lions and The Lionesses have inspired a generation of young people to pursue sport and fitness as a career.

A myriad of rewarding roles can take you all over the world, whether you become a professional athlete, personal trainer, sports coach, commentator, sport psychologist and more.

Coach | Community Sports Leader | Exercise Psychologist | Fitness Centre Manager | Gym Instructor | Health Promotion Specialist | Outdoor Activities Manager | Performance Analyst | Personal Trainer | Physical Education Teacher | Professional Athlete | Sports Scientist

A world of opportunity awaits you – literally! From cabin crew to cruise ships, hospitality management to travel agents, a qualification in Travel and Tourism will elevate your customer service and communication skills which can be utilised around the globe.

Our unrivalled facilities include an aircraft fuselage and airport security simulation, offering you the perfect location to start your journey.

Cabin Crew | Cruise Ship Manager | Holiday Representative | Hospitality and Events Manager | Hotel Manager | Marketing Executive | Outdoor Activities | Pilot | Tourism Officer | Tourist Information Centre Manager | Tour Manager | Travel Agent

A career in the Uniformed Services brings numerous opportunities for continual growth and learning. Following this path will lead you into an incredibly rewarding role where you can really make a difference.

On your journey your confidence will grow, you will expand your problem-solving skills, push the boundaries of what you thought possible and become a motivated, capable and driven individual.

Criminologist | Fire and Rescue Officer | HM Revenue and Customs | Immigration Officer | Local Government Officer | Member of the Armed Forces | Paramedic | Police Officer | Prison Officer | Probation Worker | Social Worker | Solicitor

Entry Requirements

Level 3 – Five GCSEs at grade 5 or above, including English and Mathematics, or a relevant level 2 qualification.

Level 2 – Three GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English and Mathematics, or a relevant level 1 qualification.

Level 1 – Two GCSEs at grade 3 or above, including English and Mathematics, or a relevant entry level qualification.

Some courses require specific subjects and minimum grades in addition.

If you have any questions about the entry requirements, contact our knowledgeable team: [email protected].

VOCATIONAL VISIONARIES

Want to Discover more?

Contact our friendly and knowledgeable School Liaison Team: [email protected] | 01282 733373