Keep up to date with useful links and posts. What will I study on the course? The Graphic Design FdA has visual communication at its core and consists of three Pathways of study - Graphic Design, Illustration and Advertising. Students are encouraged to solve creative problems utilising both traditional design methods and computer technology that allows for experimentation, exploration and creativi
ty. You may have a very clear idea of your progression and direction on starting the course, but you will be challenged to take risks and will be encouraged to develop ideas of genuine originality, rather than seek safe and predictable solutions. Level 4: Lays the groundwork for the innovative exploration of ideas that have strong historical and contextual foundations within graphic design. All students explore the core values of the design process through a range of disciplines. Ideas generation & exploration
Visual studies
Design process
Digital applications
Historical & contemporary studies
Specialist studio practice
Level 5: Offers design problems with greater constraints attached, resulting in more realistic outcomes. There is greater emphasis on a critical awareness of project work and that of peers, as well as an expectation of increased professional practice. Project briefs will be linked with industry and developed through advanced studio practice where students will begin to focus on their chosen pathway. Professional practice
Critical studies
Ideas in context
Advanced studio practice (Graphic Design)
Final major project: proposal & research (Graphic Design)
Final major project: resolution (Graphic Design)
On completion of the course the relevant Foundation Degree will be awarded as follows:
Graphic Design
Students will explore the core disciplines of visual communication through the development of corporate identity, information graphics, magazine design, book design and digital content. Design process, theory and methodology will form the basis of good practice, supported further through emphasis on historical and contextual research to underpin the final execution of ideas. Students will be encouraged to work both independently and in groups to develop appropriate attitudes and communication skills and prepare them for the working environment. The course will culminate in the proposition and execution of the student's own brief through a final major project displayed at their end of year show. Graphic Design (Illustration)
Students will explore a number of illustrative techniques through the exploration of relevant content. This will include sequential art (comic books) children's illustration and reportage. The course will culminate in the proposition and execution students own brief through a major project and displayed at their end of year show. Graphic Design (Advertising)
Students will explore the uses of advertising through campaigns, point of sale, art direction and copywriting. There will be the encouragement not only to work independently but also to work with other students who may offer a certain skill towards an individual’s final idea; therefore the management of others and their abilities is vital in forming strong, collaborative projects. The course will culminate in the proposition and execution of the students’ own brief through a final major project and displayed at their end of year show.
