Foundation Degree in Graphic Design

Who is the programme for?

The FdA in Graphic Design a new and exciting qualification developed for those passionate about graphics and keen to follow a career in design. Developed to enable response to the challenges of a dynamic and rapidly changing profession - it emphasises industrial relevance through live projects and includes work based learning as a central focus.

Students will be introduced to key graphic design ideas, technical knowledge and skills via design problems and projects through formal class sessions, tutorials, demonstrations, project research and peer critiques.
Creativity and skills remain core elements. In particular, the programme encourages the integration of a range of graphic activities; digital, commercial, experimental, print, hand-generated, multimedia and screen based.

You will need to be able to demonstrate a strong interest in Graphic Design

• A minimum of one subject at A2 or equivalent and 2 GCSEs (A- C)
• Note GCSEs must be in subjects other than A2 subjects
• Graphic Design welcomes applicants with non A-level qualifications such as BTEC National Diploma and other relevant Access Courses.
• Mature entry procedure for applicants over 21 without qualifications, subject to interview and possible portfolio viewing.

Progression

The Foundation Degree in Graphic Design provides a preparation for those who are aiming for employment within the design industry or to establish themselves as freelance graphic designers. It is a practical programme providing experience of working to live client briefs in a OErealistic industry setting whilst developing graduate level skills of analysis and communication.

Students who successfully complete the Foundation Degree in Graphic Design will be able to progress onto an Honours level progression route to BA (Hons) in Graphic Design at Chichester University. Some students may wish to gain employment or freelance work directly from the course.

What does the interview involve?

You will be invited into college for an interview. The interview is a two way process and it will allow you to ask any questions that you may have regarding the course. You will also be required to bring into college a portfolio of design work that you feel relevant for the tutor to see. Design work could include GCSE/AS Level art /design/graphics/photography for example or any private work that you have produced. A sketchbook would be good to view. The tutor will ask you questions about your choice.

What does the course involve?

The full time FdA Graphic Design qualification will be delivered over two years and the part time provision will be delivered over three years (NB. Full time provision subject to approval).

The first year provides an introduction to the fundamental concepts and skills required by graphic designers. Second year modules build upon the skills and knowledge learned in the first year and explore graphic design in greater depth. The modules becomes more demanding as the student becomes more ready for work or for study at honours level. Many of the students will have their work produced commercially as part of their coursework. Assessment will be through a variety of portfolios, design analysis, presentations and assignment reports.

Modules within the first year include Ideas Generation and Visualisation, Digital Graphics for Print and the Design Process. The year is concluded with working to a live commercial brief.

Modules within the second year include Visual Identity and Branding which explores the application of visual identity to advertising, packaging and corporate communications. Editorial Design aims to develop typographic skills and explores the relationships between words and images on a page. Multimedia provides an introduction to screen based graphic design such as websites and interactive graphics. The Contextual Studies module explores current theoretical issues within graphic design. Both years are concluded with a Work Based Learning module which includes design assignments carried out in negotiation with a live client. (All units may be subject to change).

Type of Study :: Course Duration :: Course reference number :: Start Date :: Tutorial Fees :: Material Fees :: Exam Fees
part time GD001 September 2010 907 25 incl