ART AND DESIGN - GRAPHIC DESIGN Level 5 Higher National Diploma

• Applicants must be at least 18 years of age on or before 1st July in the year of proposed entry to the course.
• Applicants should normally have obtained a minimum of 48 UCAS points achieved through the completion of A-Levels, National Awards, Access or other alternative approved level 3 qualifications in art, photography or media.
• Have attained at least 15 points at Level 2 or above (e.g. GCSE) or have alternative approved qualifications. This must include GCSE English Language Grade C or Essential Skills Communication Level 2 and GCSE Mathematics Grade C or Essential Skills Numeracy Level 2. In addition, applicants must provide evidence of competence in written and spoken English Language.
• A portfolio of work should normally be presented at interview.

The College’s Admissions policy reflects the expectations of the UK Quality Code Admissions, Recruitment and Widening Access (Nov 2018).

Please note that applicants progressing to higher education courses at Level 4 and above in the College or UK Universities may require a specific GCSE/ A Level profile. In some cases, the Essential Skills in Literacy and Numeracy may not be a suitable alternative to a GCSE. The list of acceptable qualifications for equivalency to English and mathematics for Ulster University is available from the following link: https://www.ulster.ac.uk/apply/entrance-requirements#eng

It is the responsibility of the applicant to check each University’s progression requirements before enrolling on a course at the College.

Modules will include:

• Professional Development. *
• Graphic Design Practice
• Contextual Studies. *
• Individual Project. *
• Techniques and Processes in Design. *
• Materials, Selection and Specification.
• Typography.
• Communication In Art and Design.
• Conceptual Practice.
• Applied Practice. *
• Branding and Identity.
• Advanced Graphic Design Practice.
• Printmaking.
• Professional Practice. *

* Represents mandatory core modules.

You will be assessed on a regular basis throughout the programme using a range of appropriate assessment methods such as written and practical assignments, projects, presentations and live briefs. Each project lasts approximately 5-12 weeks and is assessed at the end, therefore letting you know how you are progressing. During each module you will have formative assessment and regular tutorials.

You are also required to travel to galleries and other places of interest in relation to your study. Field trips to Belfast and other local venues may cost approximately £40 per year. There is also a visit to London which is not mandatory but is organised to help in personal, professional and creative development This would also incur a cost of around £170.

On successful completion of this course you may progress to employment in the graphic design and photographic industries or progress to the Liverpool John Moores University BA (Hons) in Creative Imaging delivered on the College's Banbridge Campus.

Alternatively, students may progress to courses at other higher education institutions throughout the UK.

Careers within areas of graphic design and digital design may include graphic designer, digital animation, advertising designer, brand specialist web designer.