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Art & Design

Students will explore visual communication through: typography, colour theory, drawing and layout design.

You will develop skills in Adobe Creative Suite, learn about branding, print and digital media, and gain a deep understanding of design principles to create compelling and effective visual content.

You will also explore fields associated to the creation of graphic design such as illustration, printmaking and photography.

As part of your course you will be working with employers on live briefs, this will help with the development of your CV and professional graphic design profile.

  • Entry requirements

    To study this course, you must be 18 years or over, and possess one of the following:

    • A UAL/BTEC level 3 qualification in Art and Design
    • An A level profile, that demonstrates strong performance in a relevant subject
    • A Level 3 Foundation Diploma in Art and Design.

      Plus at least five GCSEs grades A-C, including English.

      Mature learners are welcome and may have a more varied profile of achievement which might include relevant work experience and/or professional qualifications.
  • Who is the course for?

    This course will concentrate on graphic design and digital communication fundamentals for an ever-changing multi-channel world. It's about building the skills to create great ideas and deliver them at a professional level across a host of print and digital applications.

    This is the first year of a 2-year course, after successful completion of the HNC (Higher National Certificate) you can progress to the HND in Graphic Design (Higher National Diploma) which is a level 5 course.

    This course is for those looking to develop their skills in Graphic Design specialism to access study at a higher level with at ultimate aim of gaining a career in Graphic Design.

  • Study methods

    You will be taught within the Richmond Upon Thames campus with access to specialist staff, workshop spaces and a Mac suite. The course will be delivered through a series of workshops, lectures, one to one and group tutorials, as well as regular trips in order to expand your contextual awareness.

  • How is the course assessed?

    The course is assessed on 2 units (HNC, Level 4) which forms the first part of your 2-year programme. The following criteria will be studied and assessed:

    • Contextual knowledge
    • Ideas generation and development
    • Technical knowledge and skill
    • Professional practice
    • Communication.

      Each unit carries a grade of Pass, Merit or Distinction and forms your overall grade for the year.
  • More information

    UCAS code: W210

  • Where Next – Job Opportunities

    Career pathways for students are access directly to the Graphic Design workforce and with a good portfolio developed on the course, you will be able to gain employment as a Graphic Design intern or Junior Designer.

  • Where Next – Further Studies

    After the first year of successfully completing the programme, you will be awarded a HNC in Graphic Design with the option of completing the HND in Graphic Design for the second year. The majority of students take this route. This can then lead on to completing a full BA (Hons) top-up at university.

    Other pathways for students are access directly to the graphic design workforce and with a good portfolio developed on the course, you will be able to gain employment as a Graphic Design intern or Junior Designer.

  • Fees

    Home student fee: £6,500

    International student fee: £8,500. There is also a registration fee for international students. This is between £115-25.

    The fees quoted are for one year of study and include tuition, exam fee, materials, ID card (which gives access to the college and facilities e.g. library) and college registration.

    Fees will be no higher than those published, subject to an Access and Participation Plan being approved by the Office for Students.

    Whether you pay a 'home' or 'overseas' fee depends on whether you meet certain criteria. Harrow, Richmond and Uxbridge Colleges (HRUC) does not create the criteria for fee status. The fee status criteria is provided in regulations and guidance, published by the government.

    For information on the conditions you need to meet to be entitled to pay tuition fees at the 'home' rate for study on a Higher Education (HE) course at Richmond upon Thames College please contact the Careers Team on 020 8607 8000.

    If you are unsure about your status, please contact the Careers Team at Richmond upon Thames College. The UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) also has information about residency for international students.

  • How to apply

    To apply for a course either click the APPLY NOW button - fill out the form online and submit

    OR download an application form here and post it to the address on the form.
    When we have received your application we will contact you to arrange an interview time.

Course starting Sep 2024

Starts 16 September 2024

Duration 32 Week(s)

Location Richmond upon Thames Campus