Graphic Design

BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Art & Design, Graphic Design

Coursework/Exams (%): 100/0
You need: 5 GCSE grades A*-C including Art, Graphics or Textiles and normally including English or Maths or Distinction/Merit for BTEC Level 2 Diploma Art & Design
Board: Edexcel
Duration: 2 years

This course enables you to develop a wider understanding of graphic design and illustration and how to prepare a graphic design portfolio for university. You’ll explore a range of ideas within graphic design and you’ll learn through practical and critical activities to express and gain knowledge of the different areas within graphic design, by creating sketchbooks of research, ideas and development. You’ll explore a range of art techniques using a variety of 2D materials before using Photoshop as a tool. You’ll be designing posters, book jackets and promotional materials within realistic projects. The course is equivalent to two A Levels and is very varied: as well as furthering your own practical skills through mediums including Photoshop, you’ll visit art galleries. Your second year will be mainly taken up with developing your art portfolio for university interviews and professionally presenting work produced during the course.

AS/A2 Graphic Design

Coursework/Exams (%): 75/25
You need: 6 GCSE grades A*-C (at least 2 A/B grades) including Art & Design, English and Maths
Board: Edexcel
Duration: AS 1 year/A2 2 years

This course will enable you to develop a wider understanding of graphic design. You’ll explore a range of ideas within graphic design and you’ll learn through practical and critical activities to express and gain knowledge of the different areas within graphic design, by creating sketchbooks of research, ideas and development. You’ll have a chance to explore a range of techniques using a variety of 2D materials and all with reference to the historical and contemporary practice within graphic design. The course will complement AS/A2 Fine Art, AS/A2 Photography and AS/ A2 Textiles.

Can lead to:
The Diploma in Foundation Studies: Art & Design or higher education courses in product, vehicle, furniture, interior or industrial design, theatre studies, ceramics, architecture and sculpture, computer graphics, packaging and typography, graphic communication and illustration. Employment is also an option.