Graphic designers are communicators and problem-solvers who work to a brief. They are able to communicate a message, convey an idea as well as engage an audience using visual language.
On the Graphic Design programme, we encourage a broad understanding of the field of Graphic Communication Design and place a great deal of emphasis on the development and communication of ideas and creative thinking.
We promote explorative experimentation and application of the subject with a strong emphasis on conceptual thinking. Projects explore all forms of visual communication, and may include books, typography and letterforms, advertising and branding, print media, moving image and digital interaction.
Students are provided with a solid foundation that stretch and challenge their skills, whilst building a specialist portfolio and employability skills. It is expected that the majority of students will use the course to progress to a higher education degree.
- Industry standard Macs, PCs and software
- Access to photo studios, print rooms and 3D craft facilitates
- Real live projects
- End-of-year exhibition open to the public and employers
- Delivery by industry practicing staff
"I feel that it (the course) has given me a strong foundation into design all together. The basics of understanding how to work with a brief and with clients has helped me to understand the industry better... I feel I have a strong understanding of terminology and design principles as well as brief work, that at A level you wouldn't gather as they wouldn't have live briefs for student to work on and gain experience. Also, being a UAL course you get an understanding of the process of how university works, from recording ideas and aims to actual purposeful research, to build a better portfolio.?"
"I am far happier at college than I was at school and would have been at 6th form. I like the professional environment and freedom to choose whereto take your project, as this is a beneficial skill when you go to work: people won't always tell you what to do, some initiative is needed.?"
Career Destinations
- Graphic Design
- Digital Design
- Illustration
- Editorial Design
- Advertising
- Marketing
- Web Design
- Art Worker
- Motion Design
What can I do next?
After successfully completing a UAL Level 3 Diploma in Art & Design: Graphic Design - you can progress to a second and final year of specialist study with a UAL Level 3 Extended Diploma: Graphic Design.
After completing year two, It is expected that the majority of students will use the course to progress to a higher education degree. This can be within any number of design related fields, such as Graphic Design, Digital Design, Animation, Marketing and some learners have also progressed onto Architecture.
What will I be doing?
- Design thinking
- Research and analysis
- Idea generation
- Print room practice
- Digital design
- Communication skills development
Added Extras
- Enrichment visits (New Blood, The Wellcome Collection and The Design Museum)
- Live briefs in collaboration with local organisations
- Develop an individual portfolio of online/specialist work for progression to higher education
How will I be assessed?
Assessment is coursework based through practical assignments, case studies and portfolio of work. The final project is self-directed and externally assessed.
Entry requirements
A minimum of 5 GCSEs at grade 4/C, one of which must be English, or a Level 2 Art and Design Diploma at merit grade and English GCSE grade 4/C.
Applicants are asked to provide examples of art and design work at interview.
What do I need to bring?
You will be required to purchase your own equipment, a kit list will be provided. You should expect to replace paints, sketchbooks and some materials as you progress on the course. £90 is payable on enrolment as a contribution towards the cost of study trips and additional specialist materials.
Students at HRC who meet the eligibility criteria can apply to the Bursary Fund for support towards essential kit, visit and material costs. Please note - bursary funding is not guaranteed and is subject to availability at the time of application. For further information contact the Information Centre on 01992 411411 or email us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
Fee Information
Free to Home students under 19 on 31st August 2023.
If you are a Home student aged 19 or over on the 31st August 2023, you may be liable to pay approximately £2,500 tuition fee for a Level 2 qualification and approximately £5,000 for a Level 3 qualification (these were the tuition fees for 2022/2023 and could be subject to change for 2023/2024).
If you are aged 19-23 you may also be entitled to free tuition if the course you choose is on a government-approved list and the qualification is your first full Level 2 or Level 3 qualification.
If you are aged over 24 and you have not achieved a full Level 3 qualification you may be entitled to free tuition if the qualification is listed on the Government Free courses for jobs list. Similarly, if you already hold a Level 3 qualification (or above) and meet the Adult Education Budgets definition of unemployed or are in receipt of low wage, you may also be entitled to free tuition.
You may also be required to pay an administration fee, exam fees, kit fee and an Awarding Body Registration fee if applicable.
These fees are indicative of the 2024-25 costs and may be subject to change
