Overview

The need for talented and creative graphic designers has never been stronger. We live our lives by images and this course will provide you with the skills and knowledge to be at the forefront of all aspects of illustrative graphic design. There has never been a better time to be a graphic designer with so many opportunities to promote your work and freelance your own career.

What will you learn?

In your first year you will complete a combination of units, which will cover exploration into different approaches to drawing, the study of art and design and illustration in the Twentieth Century, typefaces and letterforms, information graphics and creative use of media.

In your second year you will continue to develop the skills you learnt in year one to complete units covering advertising design, illustration and graphic image making, professional and personal development.

Who is the course aimed at?

This course provides you with excellent experience to go into a wide variety of design-based industries including graphic design, interior design, architecture and games design.  It is the equivalent of 2 A Levels and would therefore be a suitable choice if you are considering studying an arts-related subject at university.

Each year £80 billion is generated by creative people in the Art and Design industry, so there is plenty of opportunity to find work after finishing your education.

Entry Requirements & Other Info

Entry Requirements

You must have a minimum of four GCSEs at grades 9-4, including a grade 3 or higher in English Language.

It is preferable that you have a Level 2 qualification in an art-based subject (e.g. a Merit at BTEC or a grade 4 at GCSE). If you don’t, you will need to bring a portfolio of work to your interview which we will review as part of the enrolment process.
Experiences

This course will provide you with the opportunity to go on many trips to art galleries and exhibtions to enrich your learning. As well as this, you will be given the chance to exhibit your work outside of the classroom, in college shows and galleries but also in local and national events. We have had many students who have had their work shortlisted for a number of national awards, as well as one winning the student prize at the Ferens Open. Our Art Department is also heavily involved with our Upskilling Programme, so you will be able to develop your skills outside of lesson time with a range of workshops and activities.
Progression

Students who complete a qualification in Graphic Design can go on to complete a creative-based degree in an area like Graphic Design, Art or Illustration. This L3 qualification will also give you the opportunity to undertake a higher level apprenticeship in an area like Graphic Design or Marketing.
Outcomes

Students who complete a qualification in Graphic Design go on to a wide variety of jobs. These can include: Graphic Designer, Illustrator, Artworker, Digital Marketer or Web Designer.