What is the course about?
This UAL accredited course is designed to develop your creative and practical skills required to study at a higher level in graphic design with the intent to work in the graphic design or related industries.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.
All applicants must have:
- An interview and assessment to confirm that the course is suitable for them.
- English and maths at Level 1 or GCSE Grade 3/D and above
- Good IT skills at level 1 or above.
- Evidence of a creative portfolio, preferably in the subject area
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 Wednesdays, 09.30-12.30, and Thursdays, 09.30-16.30
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.
Other costs include printing costs and an investment in your time to complete self-directed study outside of the tutor led activities, around 6-8 hours per week.
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.
To progress to the Level 3 Diploma in Graphic Design, starting in September:
- Learners must be working at Level 1 English and maths.
- Good IT skills at level 1 or above.
- Have good levels of punctuality and attendance
- Achieved a merit on level 2 diploma in the same subject
- Have produced a portfolio of work in the subject area.
