Graphic Design (A-Level)

Outline

The course is structured around two components, giving you the opportunity to develop your own creative interests while building practical, critical and professional design skills.

Component 1 – Personal Investigation

Undertake a sustained programme of practical and critical study based on a personal theme or area of interest.

Through research, investigation, experimentation and refinement, you will develop a substantial portfolio of creative work alongside a written study.

Component 2 – Externally Set Assignment

Respond to a theme set by AQA and independently develop your ideas through:

• Research
• Sketchbooks
• Experimentation
• Practical outcomes

The project culminates in a supervised practical examination where you will produce final design solutions that demonstrate creativity, technical skill and conceptual understanding.

Throughout the course, you will develop skills in areas including typography and layout design, digital design, research, visual analysis, project planning and professional presentation.

Enrichment opportunities

Bring your creativity to life beyond the classroom through a programme of enrichment opportunities, including:

• Creative workshops
• Gallery visits
• Opportunities to explore contemporary and historical art and design practice

Progression

A-Level Graphic Communication can support progression to university, higher apprenticeships and employment within the UK's creative and digital industries.

Graphic Design and Branding

You could progress towards careers including:

• Graphic Designer
• Brand Designer
• Packaging Designer
• Junior Creative
• Marketing Designer
• Visual Identity Designer

Higher Education

Students can progress to university courses including:

• Graphic Design
• Visual Communication
• Advertising
• Illustration
• UX/UI Design
• Digital Media
• Motion Design
• Creative Direction

Wider careers

The creative and transferable skills developed through Graphic Communication are valued across a wide range of industries. You will build expertise in communication, research, visual analysis, project management and creative problem-solving.

Assessment

The course is assessed through two components across the two-year course.

Coursework – 60%

Your Personal Investigation accounts for 60% of the overall qualification and involves developing a substantial portfolio of practical and critical work based around your own theme or area of interest.

Externally Set Assignment – 40%

The Externally Set Assignment accounts for 40% of the qualification.

You will respond to a theme set by AQA, independently developing your ideas through research and experimentation before producing final design solutions during a supervised practical examination.

Entry Requirements

A combination of 5 Grade 4’s and 5’s or above at GCSE (including maths and English). * One Vocational Qualification in a related subject area will be considered in place of a GCSE. Subject Specific Entry Requirements: A creative GCSE subject at Grade 4 or above. Alternatively, a creative portfolio of three pieces to discuss at enrolment.

* Fees

Don’t let the cost of studying put you off – most of our students study for FREE, and those who don’t qualify for funding are very often eligible for an Advanced Learner Loan.

Eligibility depends on both the course you have chosen to study and your individual circumstances.

Apply

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