Graphic Design is communication by visual means, combining text and image. The course offers the opportunity to use a range of traditional and mixed media techniques alongside computer generated imagery.
You will be expected to engage with complex design problems and to arrive at solutions that promote, publicise, inform, persuade and entertain. Outcomes are varied and student led: from rebranding a shop or cafe, to designing an album cover, producing the publicity for a festival or the packaging for your favourite product, the choice is yours. You will require a lively, enquiring mind and a willingness to mix traditional and contemporary processes. This is an art-based course and not suited to those interested in technical drawing or product design.
Course Content
This specialist course is designed to give you a broad, creative approach to the world of graphic design. You will be supported to design your own typography and logos, explore computer editing and create visual branding for a range of outcomes. You will be taught digital image manipulation and research techniques. As well as Adobe Photoshop, some students access and develop skills in software including Adobe InDesign and Adobe Illustrator.
Our printing facilities are used by graphics students who wish to take a more traditional approach and allow you to cover techniques such as screen printing, dry-point etching and lino printing, amongst others.
Entry Requirements
A minimum of 5 GCSEs at grade 4 (grade C) or above, including English.
One creative GCSE such as Art & Design or Art Technology would be helpful but not essential. Mature students may apply with a portfolio of work for consideration.
Other A Levels
A Level Graphic Design will equip you with broad, transferable creative skills. The course is ideal to study alongside Fine Art, Media Studies, Film Studies or Photography.
Material Fees
There is a £20 material fee cost for this course.
Where will my course lead?
You can progress directly from A Level to an arts degree such as Graphic Design, Visual Communication, Illustration, Games Design, Multi-Media Design, and Fine Art. Employment as a graphic designer is the clearest route, but this course also offers a way into illustration or, with further study, animation; you could work within the media, an advertising company or design agency.
