The Diploma in Professional Studies (DPS) is an optional, experiential learning opportunity that enables you to develop your skills by undertaking a variety of placements and industry experiences.

Taking place in Year 3 as part of an extended 4-year degree, DPS been designed to help you learn in the most exciting and dynamic manner. After submitting a successful application in Year 2, you’ll have opportunities to work with established industry practitioners in live contexts such as studios and galleries, and on collaborative projects in both the UK and abroad.

You’ll be supported to participate in a variety of national and international professional opportunities, where you'll be able to experiment with future career possibilities while developing a clearer understanding of professional practice.

Your work-based learning will occur in a huge variety of ways and forms. Most commonly, your practice will take place in studios across the world, but you’ll also be encouraged to be enterprising as you take on freelance briefs and self-initiated projects, set up exhibitions, and volunteer your skills to support the work of global charities.

DPS students have previously worked with organisations such as:

  • Apple (California)
  • Adidas (Germany)
  • Research Studios (London, Barcelona, and Berlin)
  • Channel 4
  • Museum of Modern Art (New York City)
  • Tate Publishing
  • KesselsKramer (Amsterdam)
  • Pentagram (London, Berlin, and New York)
  • Selfridges
  • Thomas.Matthews
  • Landor Associates (Shanghai and Beijing)
  • IDEO (San Francisco)
  • Airside Nippon (Tokyo)

Which courses offer DPS?

Originally offered within LCC’s Design School, the Diploma in Professional Studies is now expanding to selected courses in our Media and Screen Schools – enabling more students than ever to develop their professional skills, expand their networks and build on their academic knowledge.

Students beginning study in Autumn 2026 on the following courses will be able to take part in DPS:

Design School

Screen School

Selection criteria

The stand-alone Diploma is optional. It’s designed to complement your University education and provide a contrast to academic study.

This initiative is offered after 2 years of study, in Year 3. After completing your DPS year, you’ll return to complete the fourth and final year of your undergraduate degree.

If you’re interested in taking part, you must apply by the end of the autumn term in Year 2. Numbers on the Diploma are capped, and factors including student achievement and past performance will be taken into consideration during the selection process.