What is the course about?
The UAL Level 2 Diploma, is a one year course specialising in Graphic Design. Explore graphic design through a range of assignments from typography and layout to packaging and marketing materials using design techniques and software applications including Photoshop, Illustrator and InDesign. During this course you will be able to explore basic elements of design such as typography, layouts, composition, 2D and 3D designs. With a variety of project brief assignments, you will gain a good foundation of the understanding of the design theory and process with the development of ideas and mock ups through to the final product. The course is designed to help you develop design skills and also your own unique and personal style.
Is a pre-enrolment interview or assessment required for this course?
Yes, please contact our customer services before enrolling.
What level is the course and do I require particular skills, experience or prior qualifications?
This is a Level 2 course. You should have a Level 1 qualification in the subject or equivalent experience. You need to be able to demonstrate some design skills and knowledge of one or two creative design software applications, such as Photoshop and Illustrator.
- A minimum level of Level 1 in English and Maths is required for this course.
- You will also need to have good computer skills for this course which has significant computer-based content. We use Apple Macs, but skills are easily transferable for PC users.
- If you wish to move on to a Level 3 course, you will be advised to study Functional Skills, Level 2 English alongside this course.
What topics does the course cover?
You will develop Graphic Design concepts and techniques through typography, layout design and colour, explore professional software Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign and create original artwork for publicity materials such as posters and flyers, corporate design and packaging design. You will learn how to research and develop a project using contextual art and design studies and explore how to build a portfolio of work.
In terms 1 and 2 the tutor will guide you through class exercises and projects. In term 2 and 3 you will develop an independent Final Major Project.
Please note this class runs on Tuesdays, 09.30-16.30, and Wednesdays, 13.30-16.30
How will I be taught and assessed?
This course is delivered 1.5 days per week for one year with a combination of face-to-face, studio practical skills, online learning, plus directed study time. The course will develop your comprehension of graphic design through discussion, projects, group work, demonstrations, and practical exercises.
There is no formal examination: you will be assessed on the Final Major Project and the course work you produce which will be externally moderated by UAL.
Are there any other costs or equipment I need to get?
The full ADOBE CC suite and MICROSOFT OFFICE SUITE including TEAMS are available to you FREE while you remain on the course. You must have a suitable computer to run the Adobe Suite so you can complete homework and online content at home. You must be able to download, install and work via Microsoft TEAMS. You will be provided with a sketchbook but you need to purchase a portable hard drive to back up your work (at least 100Gb).
Other costs include an investment in your time to complete self-directed study outside of the tutor led activities, around 6-8 hours per week.
By the end of the course what should I be able to do?
You will gain a good understanding of how the design process works. You will understand how to plan and produce graphic design products from posters, flyers and business cards to creating original artwork for packaging. You will know how to read and understand a brief and acquire useful computer and software skills. You will work with sketchbooks and develop a digital portfolio of works that will show case a variety of design areas that can be used to help you progress to Level 3 Graphic Design or may prepare you for working in the design industry.
What are the progression opportunities following this course?
You can progress on to the Level 3 Diploma in Graphic Design, starting in Sepember, or pursue employment in the graphics and/or related creative industries, whether for an employer or freelance.