What is the course about?
LOVE GRAPHIC DESIGN? The UAL Level 3 Diploma is a one-year course where you will specialise in Graphic Design. You will develop your practice as a creative designer and produce a unique portfolio of work that demonstrates your skills though graphic communication. Explore graphic design through inspiring challenges and project briefs and learn how to communicate information and visuals through the power of graphic design. You are encouraged to contextualise your creativity through guided research activities. You will develop your individual creative practice and experiment with a range of materials and techniques, learning professional skills and creating original design solutions. This is a great opportunity to explore your creative practice and produce a unique design portfolio.
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 3 course. You should have a Level 2 qualification in the subject or equivalent experience. You must be confident using Photoshop and have some experience using Illustrator and or InDesign and be able to show a portfolio of work that demonstrates your abilities.
- A minimum level of Level 2 in English and Maths is required for this course.
- You will also need to have very good computer skills for this course which has significant computer-based content. We use Apple Macs, but skills are easily transferable for PC users.
What topics does the course cover?
You will explore creative graphic design through illustration, branding and advertising, layout and typography, animation and designing for the screen. We use the Adobe Creative Suite throughout focusing on Photoshop, Illustrator and InDesign with some experience using motion graphics such as Adobe Animate. You will be encouraged to consider your potential audience, develop critical thinking and consider ethical and environmental concerns. We dive into the design elements and principles, materials, techniques and processes that underline graphic design. The course embeds contextual studies and analysis designed to expand your critical thinking and develop your individual voice.
In terms 1 and 2 the tutor will guide you through class exercises and several set challenges & projects. In terms 2 and 3 you will develop an independent Final Major Project. You must be able to spend additional time on your classwork and personal project work.
How will I be taught and assessed?
This course is delivered 2 days per week for one year with a combination of face-to-face, studio practical skills, online learning, plus directed study time. You 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 projects and the course work you produce which will be externally verified 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 500GB).
Other costs include an investment in your time to complete self-directed study outside of the tutor led activities, around 8-10 hours per week.
By the end of the course what should I be able to do?
You will improve your software skills and your ability to independently plan, deliver and present a project brief. You will have created and organise a unique portfolio of work which you can display online through web sites or social media.
In the final term you will have the opportunity to participate in the summer exhibition.
What are the progression opportunities following this course?
Many of our learners have gone on to study at the top London Universities or have gained employment as designers, art workers and in other creative jobs. You can progress on to a Higher National Diploma or a University Degree. You might also consider the UAL Extended Diploma at Level 3 or seek Apprentice or Internship positions. You may also choose to work freelance and / or set up your own business.