Graphic Design Level 5 HND

Designed for those looking to gain employment in the creative industries through working towards building a solid foundation of knowledge in Graphic Design, this course will support and guide you through all the aspects of contemporary graphic design practice, enabling you to build up confidence and develop new skills.

The Higher National Diploma in Art and Design (Graphic Design) programme follows on from the successful completion of the Level 4 Higher National Certificate, you can progress into the workplace or continue on to Level 6 Top up degree.

Unlike traditional higher education programmes, the HND is vocationally focussed and therefore can lead straight on to a career. You will gain knowledge of industry practices and use industry standard computing software, including Adobe Photoshop, InDesign, After Effects and Illustrator, to create and adapt work. On the HND, there is a focus on preparing for employment and applying for positions in the workplace through building a portfolio and brand identity.

The course has been recognised for the excellent links with a variety of design agencies and industry professionals who contribute to the programme delivery and invaluable work experience opportunities.

Other advantages include:

• The course is cost effective, in comparison to University
• There is a small cohort of students enabling targeted individual support and guidance, with workshops to build software knowledge
• Tuition in understanding of print design and print production
• Work experience opportunities and work placements running alongside | the course programme
• Live client briefs and projects encouraging and supporting professional practice
• Visiting speakers and relevant trips to speak to professionals in Industry
• Lecturers all have experience of working in Industry and continue to maintain professional working practices and have been awarded Certificates of Excellence in the Pearson National Teaching Awards 2020.

During the course you will study the following units:

• Professional Practice
• Applied Practice Collaborative Project (Pearson-set) - double credit award
• Advanced Graphic Design Practices - double credit award
• Digital Animation
• Web Design
• Styling

This course operates using a blended learning approach where part of some units may be delivered online via Microsoft Teams. To participate in this programme you will need a suitable computer and/or device with sufficient internet access. Specific requirements and information on the support available to borrow or purchase equipment can be discussed at interview.

Level 4 Higher National Certificate in Art and Design. An alternative Level 4 qualification in an Art based subject will be considered at the interview stage.

You will need to be comfortable with basic computer functions such as navigating the desktop; opening, saving and transferring files; and accessing online resources. We recommend that students are familiar with both Windows and Mac operating systems, however, you will receive training on using these platforms.

This is a creative programme and you will be expected to work imaginatively to generate and develop creative ideas in response to a wide range of briefs. You should show willingness to collaborate and discuss your work, reflect critically, demonstrate intellectual inquiry and be open to embracing new ways of thinking.

Pearson BTEC Higher National Diploma in Art and Design

This programme is designed to give graduating students the best opportunities to enter employment as a graphic designer or similar role. Those wishing to further their study may want to consider a BA (Hons) in Graphic Design or diversify to a related subject such as Web Application Development.

Project briefs are set for each assignment and you are encouraged to develop a personal response to each task. You will complete research and develop your own ideas, recording your own progress along the way. All activities are supported through one-to-one tutorials and group discussions to inform personal progress and aid assessment. Assessment is continuous throughout the course, with assignments being graded at the end of each brief/unit.

You will complete research and set work on a regular basis in order to build up knowledge and confidence within the creative industries. It is expected that you will need to spend approximately 6-10 hours a week on your course work outside of the normal class time.

You will be expected to complete approximately 10 days of related work experience. This will help you to understand the types of roles available in industry and the skills required to gain employment in the sector.

The tuition fees for this programme are £ 6,000 per year. There is an awarding body registration fee (set by the awarding body) and an annual student association registration fee of £15.

You may be offered the opportunity to visit exhibitions and shows and these visits may require you to pay for or contribute towards entrance fees and travel costs. You may also benefit from purchasing text books, details will be provided at interview or enrolment.