Graphic Design - Level 3

More about the course

If you are a creative thinker who is fascinated by branding, design, advertising and visual communications, this Graphic Design course is the perfect route to unleash your design potential.

Graphic designers create artwork and produce innovative design solutions across a range of media. You will develop skills in the Adobe Creative Suite and access Mac suites, photography studios and specialist print workshops.

This dynamic graphic design course places a strong emphasis on both traditional and digital design skills. You will have numerous opportunities to apply your skills in real-world settings, collaborating on live projects with reputable design agencies. You will also have the opportunity to take part in experiences such as national and international trips, allowing you to gain inspiration from diverse design perspectives.

You will benefit from the valuable insights shared by guest speakers from the industry, who bring their expertise and first-hand knowledge to enhance your learning experience.

Entry requirements

5 GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English or maths and an art-based subject

You will also meet the teaching team to present and talk through your portfolio of graphic design work.

What will I achieve?

• This is a two-year programme. You will achieve a qualification after successful completion of each year.
• In year one you will receive a Level 3 BTEC 90 Credit Diploma Art and Design (Graphics).
• In year two you will receive a Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma Art and Design (Graphics).

What will I learn?

• Typography

• Design skills

• Packaging

• Advertising

• Print making

• Globalisation

• Theory and psychology of design

• Self-promotion

• Ethics

How is the course taught?

• Project work

• One-to-one tutorials

• Group work

• Crazy 8’s design sprints

• Debates and justifications

• Research tasks

• Pitches and presentations

• Critiques

How am I assessed?

• Project-based assessments

Regular feedback is provided throughout your project to help you understand areas for further development and improvement. 

Work experience opportunities

You will take part in live briefs set by North East design agencies including Hedgehog Lab and Blue Shark Design. 

You also will showcase your work through renowned national graphic design competitions from the Design and Art Direction (D&AD) and the National Penguin Student Design Awards. 

Time is set aside for design, branding, print and social media design projects set by employers.

English and Maths

Graphic designers need core English skills to be able to write copy, proofread and check spelling on artwork. Maths skills are required to set up artwork, work out project costs and invoices and set the correct typography. You will develop these vital English and maths skills throughout your course. 

Where can I progress?

On successful completion you can progress to FdA Graphic Communication with Newcastle College University Centre. 

You may also wish to enter employment as a junior graphic designer or pursue freelance graphic design work.