Graphic Design Degree BA (Hons)

Designed by industry partners, this course engages you in developing a rich combination of new and traditional technical and creative skills.

Course Overview

Location: Northbrook College, Worthing, West Sussex, England
UCAS code: W210
Duration: 3 years full-time
Application deadline: 15 July 2024
Start date: September 2024
Fees: £16,500

Entry requirements

2 A-Levels and 3 GCSEs in other subjects grade 9-4 or A-C (or equivalent)
OR
1 A-Level, a Foundation course and 3 GCSEs in other subjects grade 9-4 or A-C (or equivalent)

A portfolio of work or audition is also needed to demonstrate ability in the specialist area.

English language requirements

IELTS certificate or equivalent with an overall score of 6.0, 6.0 in the writing element and 5.5 in all other sub-elements.

Your application will be assessed based on your grades, interview, portfolio/audition, and any experience.

Download Course Sheet

Course Information

This graphic design course combines industry practice with creative development to prepare you for a successful career.

Course Content

This practice-led course immerses you in the dynamic world of Graphic Design, equipping you with the skills and knowledge to thrive. We blend industry-standard practices with a strong focus on creative development, empowering you to cultivate your unique design voice.

Gain real-world experience through projects, develop teamwork and communication skills, and hone critical thinking for market success. Craft a standout portfolio showcasing your creative vision and marketability. By graduation, you'll be a well-rounded graphic designer with the skills and confidence to excel in the industry.

Teaching Method

We use a variety of teaching methods, including:

practical and creative studio-based workshops
discussions
lectures/seminars
tutorials
small group study
self-directed study
study trips

Key Features

Collaborate and develop your abilities with cross-media experimentation and fulfilment of live briefs from within the department and professional external studios.
Delivered by expert tutors with industry experience
Access to a dedicated computer suite, print room, photography studios and a 3D workshop.
Study across various media, processes and disciplines, including graphic design, illustration and animation.

Course Structure

Year One

The first year centres on building your design foundation. You'll learn the creative process, explore core techniques like typography and software like Adobe Creative Suite, and develop a critical eye for design's impact within a historical and contemporary context. A self-directed project lets you showcase your skills and delve into design areas that excite you. This program equips you for future design specialization.

Unit 1: The Creative Process
Unit 2: Cultural and Contextual Studies
Unit 3: Materials and Methods
Unit 4: Digital Design
Unit 5: Applied Graphic Design
Unit 6: Minor Project

Year Two

The second year of the program transforms students into industry-ready graphic designers. They'll gain practical experience through real-world industry briefs, honing their creative and self-management skills throughout the entire design process. This includes research, development, presentations, and even client interaction.

Running alongside these projects is a focus on theoretical and research skills. Through critical analysis, discussions, and academic writing, students will develop a strong foundation in Advanced Cultural & Contextual Studies.

The program doesn't stop at design skills – it equips students with the business savvy needed to succeed. A dedicated module tackles essential topics like portfolio creation, marketing strategies, copyright, and financial management.

Finally, students take centre stage in their learning with an Independent Project. This self-directed project allows them to explore their design interests, refine their skills, and create a significant piece for their portfolio.

Unit 7: Professional Practice 1
Unit 8: Advanced Cultural & Contextual Studies
Unit 9 Professional Practice 2
Unit 10: Business Practice
Unit 11: Independent Project

Year Three

The final year program fosters creative and critical thinking through a blend of coursework and a culminating major project. The program begins by equipping you with expertise in analysing design briefs and mastering project management skills. You'll then tackle a research project, guided from topic selection to a polished final presentation. Subsequently, you'll have the opportunity to deep dive into a specific area of graphic design that interests you, culminating in a major project that showcases your specialization. Finally, the program prepares you for the professional world by teaching you the essential skills of self-promotion and running a freelance business.