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A Level - Graphic Communication

Course Information

Course TypeLevel 3

Duration2 Years

Awarding BodyEduqas

Graphic design 1

What does the course involve?

This Art and Design course is aimed for students who have a genuine interest in art and design. It places a strong emphasis on nurturing creative techniques and encourages students to engage with a diverse array of artistic media, materials, and techniques. Through this course, you will delve into the core principles of design and visual communication, establishing a solid skill foundation. Furthermore, you will have the opportunity to venture into exploration and experimentation, spanning traditional and digital methods. This program is ideally suited for individuals aspiring to embark on careers in design, illustration, animation, game design, architecture, or art foundations.

Within the subject of graphic design, you are encouraged to explore a range of disciplines such as illustration, typography, advertising, packaging, branding, editorial design, book covers, animation and web design. You will learn and develop a variety of techniques within drawing, illustration, typography, laser cutting, print making, collage, textiles and photography. The graphics studio is well-equipped with a range of materials and equipment; there is a computer for each student including industry standard software with the latest Adobe Creative Suite, which you will be taught how to use during the course.

In year one, students will study the relationship between ideas and graphic design practice. Contextual research is an important part of the course. Students will gain skills in both freehand techniques and digital technologies. The emphasis is on individual projects that promote personal interpretation and the development of individual style.

In year two, in addition to practical work, students will research, evaluate, analyse and establish links between their own practical work and the broader art world. Students will also produce a written project linked to practical final outcomes and will develop the ability to identify and resolve creative problems. Finally, there will be an externally set practical assignment.

The course has been designed to ensure that not only will your practical artistic skills and abilities are developed, but also your ability to reflect on your own work and the work of others. You will produce supporting studies throughout the course, including a journal sketchbook and digital portfolio. You will be encouraged to experiment broadly and generate lots of ideas for each component.

Progression

After completion of A Levels, many HE institutions prefer that you complete a pre-degree Foundation Diploma in Art and Design, before embarking on an Art based degree course. This can lead to a career in Graphic Design or a similar area in the creative industries.

Students wishing to complete a foundation Diploma can do so at Suffolk One.

Entry Requirements

Standard entry requirements, plus:

Minimum Grade 4 Art/Graphics (or related GCSE)
L2 vocational equivalent at Merit or Distinction
Bring a portfolio of your work to interview

Can I take additional qualifications?

We do not recommend combining more than two Art & Design subjects at A Level; those wishing to pursue full-time study in Art & Design should apply for our UAL Art & Design extended level 3 Diploma instead.

We find that some subjects specifically complement the A Level Graphics Course such as, Games Design, Photography, Art and textiles.

How will I be assessed?

All of your creative, practical and analytical work will be assessed by your tutors and moderated externally. At the end of the second year, the externally set practical assignment will demonstrate all that you have learnt and achieved.

What are the costs?

There is a small £20 fee to study on this course. This fee goes toward art materials used throughout the two-year program of study. We expect Graphic students to use sketchbooks throughout their studies, these can be purchased for £3.50 from our online College shop. You should expect to use at least 2 to 3 books over the course duration. Graphics ‘Art Packs’ costing £7 are also available from the online college shop, these contain a sketchbook as well as other materials commonly used throughout the course. Students will also receive a small amount of printing credit, this may need to be topped up throughout the year. Students should also budget for trips to galleries and museums in order to gain maximum benefit from this course. These will take place once a term and we aim to keep costs below £15 for each trip. Students in receipt of bursary payments can use these funds to pay the materials fee, and in the online College shop.