Level 3 Extended Diploma in Graphic Design

Course overview

This full time, two year course is perfect if you want to work in the booming creative industries. Graphic Design is embedded throughout our lives and culture and includes a broad range of specialisms including branding, packaging, advertising, illustration, editorial, typography and photography. You'll develop your understanding of modern design practices, exploring digital software such as Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator and InDesign and well as experimenting with traditional methods of graphic communication such as photo-montage, screen printing, illustration and drawing. You'll learn how to research and develop your ideas and how to critically evaluate and reflect on your progress to improve your design and presentation skills. You will also learn about the history of Graphic Design and how the design industry works, which is vital for those aspiring to progress in this rewarding career. In the second year you'll build an exciting portfolio and prepare for interview to enter higher education or employment. You will normally study up to four days a week, including compulsory work experience to give you the employability skills needed to work in the Graphic Design industry. The programme of study includes Graphic Design, English/Maths (if required), work experience and enterprise activities.

What else do I need to know?

Graphic Design offers many exciting career pathways within the broad spectrum of creative careers. This growing sector employs over 2 million people. If you enjoy working to briefs, can problem solve and have creative flair, this could be a great course of study for you.

You will have the opportunity to take part in a number of educational visits to centres which in the past have included London, Manchester, Liverpool, and Barcelona. You can visit local creative events, productions and exhibitions such as museum and gallery exhibitions and industry focused lectures. The course offers opportunities to produce live project work in collaboration with local and national companies as and when appropriate and involvement in selected regional and national competitions is also encouraged. Live work has included award winning advertising for 'Keep Stoke Smiling' and a variety of projects promoting local businesses.