Graphic & Digital Design

Level 3

Explore typography, hand rendered and digital illustration, web design and layouts, designing for adverts and promotional materials.

graphic & digital design

Level 3

Explore typography, hand rendered and digital illustration, web design and layouts, designing for adverts and promotional materials.

Explore typography, hand rendered and digital illustration, web design and layouts, designing for adverts and promotional materials.

THIS COURSE IS AVAILABLE AT:

KEY INFORMATION:

Entry Requirements

4 GCSEs at 4-9 (C-A*) including English

Course Length

Two years

Qualification

BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Art and Design

Explore typography, hand rendered and digital illustration, web design and layouts, designing for adverts and promotional materials.

AVAILABLE IN:

key information:

Entry Requirements

GCSEs at grades 4-9 (C-A*), including English and maths

Course Length

Two Years

Qualification

BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Art and Design

course overview

Our Level 3 course offers a comprehensive introduction to the exciting world of graphic and digital design. Throughout the course, you will develop essential graphic design skills, gain practical experience, and acquire a solid understanding of the principles and techniques utilised in the graphic design industry.

You will explore the foundations of graphic design, learning how to convey messages through art, both in traditional and digital mediums, and be introduced to tools, techniques, and software used in the field. 

You’ll be taught a diverse range of skills including communication through art, infographic creation, motion graphics, interactive media, illustration and digital art. 

The course also touches on the basics of photography, including camera techniques and post-processing/image editing, allowing you to capture and manipulate visually engaging images. 

As you progress, you’ll identify progression routes, sharpen the necessary skills and create professional materials like a CV, portfolio and website, ready to work as a freelancer, find full-time employment, or pursue further training such as apprenticeships or Higher Education.

As a student enrolled in the Graphic and Digital Design program, you will have access to industry-level facilities, including our media labs, furnished with professional Apple iMac desktop computers and the full Adobe Creative Suite. These high-powered machines ensure that you have the necessary tools to produce professional-grade digital media projects.

PLEASE NOTE: THE BELOW STUDY MATERIALS ARE CAMPUS DEPENDENT.

Prior to your studies commencing, you will be advised how and where to purchase essential graphic design materials such as a USB hard drive, a graphics tablet and art supplies.

In college you will have access to:

  • Apple iMacs
  • Adobe Creative Cloud licence with access to all applications except Substance
  • Drawing tablets
  • Studio spaces including green screen
  • Audio recording equipment
  • LED lighting
  • DXLRs
  • Gimbals & scorpion grips
  • Tripods
  • Specialist lenses

A Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) allowing you to:

  • View course information
  • Access resources for your lessons, to help you understand and complete projects and assignments
  • View your timetable and check your attendance
  • Submit your work and receive your grades
  • Set and review targets to help you develop artistically and academically
  • Review the notes from your 1-to-1 reviews 
  • Access online resources and learning programmes

 

The college also provides a parent portal, which allows parents/carers to support you with your progress

course overview

Our Level 3 course offers a comprehensive introduction to the exciting world of graphic and digital design. Throughout the course, you will develop essential graphic design skills, gain practical experience, and acquire a solid understanding of the principles and techniques utilised in the graphic design industry.

You will explore the foundations of graphic design, learning how to convey messages through art, both in traditional and digital mediums, and be introduced to tools, techniques, and software used in the field. 

You’ll be taught a diverse range of skills including communication through art, infographic creation, motion graphics, interactive media, illustration and digital art. 

The course also touches on the basics of photography, including camera techniques and post-processing/image editing, allowing you to capture and manipulate visually engaging images. 

As you progress, you’ll identify progression routes, sharpen the necessary skills and create professional materials like a CV, portfolio and website, ready to work as a freelancer, find full-time employment, or pursue further training such as apprenticeships or Higher Education.

As a student enrolled in the Graphic and Digital Design program, you will have access to industry-level facilities, including our media labs, furnished with professional Apple iMac desktop computers and the full Adobe Creative Suite. These high-powered machines ensure that you have the necessary tools to produce professional-grade digital media projects.

PLEASE NOTE: THE BELOW STUDY MATERIALS ARE CAMPUS DEPENDENT.

Prior to your studies commencing, you will be advised how and where to purchase essential graphic design materials such as a USB hard drive, a graphics tablet and art supplies.

In college you will have access to:

  • Apple iMacs
  • Adobe Creative Cloud licence with access to all applications except Substance
  • Drawing tablets
  • Studio spaces including green screen
  • Audio recording equipment
  • LED lighting
  • DXLRs
  • Gimbals & scorpion grips
  • Tripods
  • Specialist lenses

A Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) allowing you to:

  • View course information
  • Access resources for your lessons, to help you understand and complete projects and assignments
  • View your timetable and check your attendance
  • Submit your work and receive your grades
  • Set and review targets to help you develop artistically and academically
  • Review the notes from your 1-to-1 reviews 
  • Access online resources and learning programmes

 

The college also provides a parent portal, which allows parents/carers to support you with your progress

Ready to apply?

Applying to study with us takes less than two minutes, and we have interviewers ready and waiting to speak to you.

Find out more about the application journey and apply now below.

READY TO APPLY?

Applying to study with us takes less than two minutes, and we have interviewers ready and waiting to speak to you. Find out more about the application journey and apply now below.

LEARNER ACHIEVEMENT

90% of our learners achieve their full qualification.

93% of our learners have a positive destination.

5 out of 8 of our learners go onto university or other Higher Education.

learner achievement

COURSE MODULES

COURSE MODULES

Careers Within Graphic and Digital Design

With all the transferable skills you’ll learn on this course, the world really is your oyster. 

You can head off to University, study a Level 4/5 course or go straight into the world of work.

Careers Within Graphic and Digital Design

With all the transferable skills you’ll learn on this course, the world really is your oyster. 

You can head off to University, study a Level 4/5 course or go straight into the world of work.

additional information

  • We are an exclusively creative college, where 100% of our courses are in the creative sectors, creating a specialist, creative ecosystem. This is enhanced by teachers, support staff and managers with creative backgrounds and experience
  • There are opportunities for collaboration across creative disciplines, for example, designing logos and branding esports teams, or posters for bands and producers
  • We have developed in-house careers and online learning programmes to support, enhance and harness students’ creative skills and abilities
  • We cover a range of disciplines and outputs within media production and technology, whilst still allowing students to determine and develop their own creative outputs
  • A range of student-friendly offers are available in partnership with WEX. These vary by store, so check in with your local branch to see what support they can provide you as an Access Creative College learner
  • Students on this course are assigned an Adobe Creative Cloud licence with access to all applications except Substance. Each licence enables students to register two devices.

You will benefit from a balanced programme of study that combines practical sessions in specialist spaces, contextual studies in classrooms, independent study which you can undertake in college or at home, and enrichment activities which enhance your college experience – things such as trips, visits, guest speakers and events. On most courses, you will share some lessons with peers from different pathways, allowing you to rub shoulders and collaborate! 

Throughout both years of the course, weekly in-person lessons cover a range of topics in traditional and digital graphic design. 

In Year 1:

  • Our bespoke Graphic Design online course delivers additional skills and knowledge to develop you as a creative graphic designer, and can be completed at a time and place that works best for you
  • Enrichment activities throughout the year enhance your college experience and develop your skills and knowledge
  • Our professional development programme develops key employability skills and puts them into practice through short, independent projects
  • Weekly maths and/or English lessons support you to improve if you have a Grade 3 or below in either subject

And in Year 2:

  • Plan and undertake independent study hours to complete project work, developing organisation, self-motivation and independence and preparing you for the world of employment or Higher Education
  • Continued enrichment activities enhance your experience and provide more opportunities to engage with industry and employers
  • Continued focus on professional development lessons supports you in looking to the future

Across each year, you will receive at least three one-to-one reviews, and a formal learner report will be accessible to your parents/carer via the portal. 

4 GCSEs at 4-9 (C-A*) including English.

This course is internally assessed, meaning your teachers deliver and assess all of your coursework and is made up of carefully scheduled projects. Projects can involve both individual and group work and are a balance of practical work, such as Adobe software development; exploration of typography, colour theory, and composition techniques; motion graphics; and photography skills, balanced with written reports, slides, and presentations. The final submission of each year is a large creative project where you can choose to focus on techniques, styles and outputs of your choice.

While specific requirements are not necessary, you could benefit from:

Basic computer skills: Familiarise yourself with operating systems such as Windows or macOS. Understand file management, navigating folders, and using common software applications.

Graphic design principles: Gain a basic understanding of graphic design principles, including layout, composition, colour theory, typography, and visual hierarchy. This knowledge will provide a solid foundation for your future design projects.

Software proficiency: You will be using software, including Adobe Creative Suite (including Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign). You will get free access to the Adobe Suite, so don’t invest in it unless you want to, but you can explore their basic features, tools, and capabilities by watching YouTube tutorials.

Drawing skills: Enhance your drawing skills, as drawing forms the basis of many design concepts. Practice sketching, shading, and perspective drawing to improve your ability to communicate visually.

Research and inspiration: Begin exploring graphic design trends, styles, and influential designers. Look for inspiration in various sources such as books, magazines, websites and social media platforms to broaden your design perspective.

Your course benefits from an enrichment programme planned out by your local campus. Examples of activities we’ve done in the past are: 

Live industry briefs: Working on real-world projects and tackling industry briefs. Some of these projects may even offer the opportunity for paid work, providing valuable practical experience and a glimpse into the professional world.

Gallery and exhibition visits: To broaden your artistic horizons and inspire your creativity, your campus organises trips to galleries and exhibitions. These visits offer a chance to explore diverse art forms, gain exposure to different artistic perspectives, and engage with the wider creative community.

Competitions: Engaging in competitions can be an exciting way to showcase your skills and talents. Your campus may facilitate participation in design competitions, giving you the chance to challenge yourself, receive recognition for your work and potentially even win prizes.

Industry guest speakers: Renowned professionals from the graphic design industry are invited as guest speakers to share their expertise, insights, and experiences with you. These sessions provide valuable networking opportunities and give you first-hand knowledge of the industry, its trends, and the various career paths available.

Our bespoke professional development programme aims to empower you to take your next steps into your future career. We achieve this by providing you with a three phase programme of lessons, projects and experiences designed to give you as much exposure to industry as possible.

Those who need to retake maths and/or English due to achieving a grade 3 or below will undertake 4 hours of maths and/or 3 hours of English a week. Learn more here.

T Level Grade UCAS Points Equivalent
A Level Grades

Distinction*

168

AAA*

Distinction

144

AAA

Merit

96

CCC

Pass

48

EEE

All campuses 16-18*

FREE

All campuses 19+ (FIRST YEARS ONLY)

£2,882

additional information

  • We are an exclusively creative college, where 100% of our courses are in the creative sectors, creating a specialist, creative ecosystem. This is enhanced by teachers, support staff and managers with creative backgrounds and experience
  • There are opportunities for collaboration across creative disciplines, for example, designing logos and branding esports teams, or posters for bands and producers
  • We have developed in-house careers and online learning programmes to support, enhance and harness students’ creative skills and abilities
  • We cover a range of disciplines and outputs within media production and technology, whilst still allowing students to determine and develop their own creative outputs
  • A range of student-friendly offers are available in partnership with WEX. These vary by store, so check in with your local branch to see what support they can provide you as an Access Creative College learner
  • Students on this course are assigned an Adobe Creative Cloud licence with access to all applications except Substance. Each licence enables students to register two devices.

You will benefit from a balanced programme of study that combines practical sessions in specialist spaces, contextual studies in classrooms, independent study which you can undertake in college or at home, and enrichment activities which enhance your college experience – things such as trips, visits, guest speakers and events. On most courses, you will share some lessons with peers from different pathways, allowing you to rub shoulders and collaborate! 

Throughout both years of the course, weekly in-person lessons cover a range of topics in traditional and digital graphic design. 

In Year 1:

  • Our bespoke Graphic Design online course delivers additional skills and knowledge to develop you as a creative graphic designer, and can be completed at a time and place that works best for you
  • Enrichment activities throughout the year enhance your college experience and develop your skills and knowledge
  • Our professional development programme develops key employability skills and puts them into practice through short, independent projects
  • Weekly maths and/or English lessons support you to improve if you have a Grade 3 or below in either subject

 

And in Year 2:

  • Plan and undertake independent study hours to complete project work, developing organisation, self-motivation and independence and preparing you for the world of employment or Higher Education
  • Continued enrichment activities enhance your experience and provide more opportunities to engage with industry and employers
  • Continued focus on professional development lessons supports you in looking to the future

 

Across each year, you will receive at least three one-to-one reviews, and a formal learner report will be accessible to your parents/carer via the portal. 

4 GCSEs at 4-9 (C-A*) including English.

This course is internally assessed, meaning your teachers deliver and assess all of your coursework and is made up of carefully scheduled projects. Projects can involve both individual and group work and are a balance of practical work, such as Adobe software development; exploration of typography, colour theory, and composition techniques; motion graphics; and photography skills, balanced with written reports, slides, and presentations. The final submission of each year is a large creative project where you can choose to focus on techniques, styles and outputs of your choice.

While specific requirements are not necessary, you could benefit from:

Basic computer skills: Familiarise yourself with operating systems such as Windows or macOS. Understand file management, navigating folders, and using common software applications.

Graphic design principles: Gain a basic understanding of graphic design principles, including layout, composition, colour theory, typography, and visual hierarchy. This knowledge will provide a solid foundation for your future design projects.

Software proficiency: You will be using software, including Adobe Creative Suite (including Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign). You will get free access to the Adobe Suite, so don’t invest in it unless you want to, but you can explore their basic features, tools, and capabilities by watching YouTube tutorials.

Drawing skills: Enhance your drawing skills, as drawing forms the basis of many design concepts. Practice sketching, shading, and perspective drawing to improve your ability to communicate visually.

Research and inspiration: Begin exploring graphic design trends, styles, and influential designers. Look for inspiration in various sources such as books, magazines, websites and social media platforms to broaden your design perspective.

Your course benefits from an enrichment programme planned out by your local campus. Examples of activities we’ve done in the past are: 

Live industry briefs: Working on real-world projects and tackling industry briefs. Some of these projects may even offer the opportunity for paid work, providing valuable practical experience and a glimpse into the professional world.

Gallery and exhibition visits: To broaden your artistic horizons and inspire your creativity, your campus organises trips to galleries and exhibitions. These visits offer a chance to explore diverse art forms, gain exposure to different artistic perspectives, and engage with the wider creative community.

Competitions: Engaging in competitions can be an exciting way to showcase your skills and talents. Your campus may facilitate participation in design competitions, giving you the chance to challenge yourself, receive recognition for your work and potentially even win prizes.

Industry guest speakers: Renowned professionals from the graphic design industry are invited as guest speakers to share their expertise, insights, and experiences with you. These sessions provide valuable networking opportunities and give you first-hand knowledge of the industry, its trends, and the various career paths available.

Our bespoke professional development programme aims to empower you to take your next steps into your future career. We achieve this by providing you with a three phase programme of lessons, projects and experiences designed to give you as much exposure to industry as possible.

Those who need to retake maths and/or English due to achieving a grade 3 or below will undertake 4 hours of maths and/or 3 hours of English a week. Learn more here.

T Level Grade UCAS Points Equivalent
A Level Grades

Distinction*

168

AAA*

Distinction

144

AAA

Merit

96

CCC

Pass

48

EEE

All campuses 16-18*

FREE

All campuses 19+ (FIRST YEARS ONLY)

£2,882

student benefits

A range of student-friendly offers are available in partnership with WEX. These vary by store so check in with your local branch to see what support they can provide you as an ACC learner.

student benefits

A range of student-friendly offers are available in partnership with WEX. These vary by store so check in with your local branch to see what support they can provide you as an ACC learner.

PROGRESSION ROUTES

Your learning journey doesn’t just stop with this course! Take a look at next steps via courses at Access Creative College, Access Industry and dBs Institute!

Level 3 Content Creator (Apprenticeship)

This apprenticeship programme offers practical experience in video, social media, and digital content creation with training in key areas such as editing, marketing, and content strategy.

Level 3 Digital Marketing (Multichannel Marketer)

This apprenticeship programme combines hands-on experience with training in key areas like SEO, social media, and analytics, preparing you for a successful career in digital marketing with industry-recognised qualifications.

PROGRESSION ROUTES

Your learning journey doesn’t just stop with this course! Take a look at next steps via courses at Access Creative College, Access Industry and dBs Institute!

what next?

Book an open day

The best way to find out what it's like to study at Access Creative College is to come and see us at an open day. We have open days throughout the year. Book your place below.

How to apply

Applying is quick and easy, and can be done in less than two minutes. Just click the button below and fill in a quick form and we'll do the rest. We have interviewers ready to speak to you.

what next?

Book an open day

The best way to find out what it's like to study at Access Creative College is to come and see us at an open day. We have open days throughout the year. Book your place below.

BOOK NOW

How to apply

Applying is quick and easy, and can be done in less than two minutes. Just click the button below and fill in a quick form and we'll do the rest. We have interviewers ready to speak to you.

APPLY NOW

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