Graphic Design
Foundation Degree (FdA) Creative Industries (Graphic Design Pathway) - awarded by University of Lancashire
Is this course for me?
If you're creative, curious, and ready to turn ideas into powerful visuals, this course is for you. Whether you're passionate about branding, motion graphics, typography or digital design, the FdA Creative Industries - Graphic Design pathway gives you the tools, confidence and real-world experience to launch your creative career.
This hands-on course is perfect for those progressing from a Level 3 creative qualification, returning to education, or already working in the design industry and looking to gain a formal qualification.
You'll be taught by experienced professionals and supported to develop your design voice while working on live briefs, collaborative projects, and industry-led challenges.
You'll explore creative thinking, design principles, typography, and communication through both print and digital media. Each year builds on the last — developing your technical skills, critical thinking, and industry awareness.
Year 1 Mandatory modules include:
• Creative Thinking
• Communication Craft Skills
• Contextual Studies
• Introduction to Graphic Communication
Year 2 Mandatory modules include:
• Professional Practice
• Applied Digital Design
• Graphic Communication in Context
• Contemporary Contextual Studies for Creative Industries
Your projects will include branding, advertising, editorial, UX/UI, motion graphics, and campaign work. You'll also build a portfolio that reflects your strengths and career goals.
There are no formal exams. Instead, you'll be assessed through:
• Design portfolios
• Project work
• Research and sketchbooks
• Written evaluations
• Group critiques and presentations
These methods are designed to reflect real design industry practice and prepare you for a professional working environment.
You'll study full-time typically over three days per week for two academic years.
You'll need:
• 80 UCAS points (from A Levels, BTEC or other Level 3 qualifications)
• GCSE English at grade 4/C or above (or equivalent)
• A portfolio of creative work to show at interview
Mature students with relevant experience and/or employer references are encouraged to apply.
This course opens up a range of exciting next steps:
• Employment - Join a design agency, start freelance work, or move into roles in branding, editorial, or UX/UI design
• Top-Up Degree - Stay with us for one more year to complete the BA (Hons) Creative Practitioner (Graphics), awarded by University of Lancashire
• Further Study - Progress to postgraduate study in design, media or a related field
You'll have access to our industry-standard facilities, including a fully equipped graphics studio, large-format printer and the latest cloud-based software used in professional practice.
As a student on a University of Lancashire-validated course, you'll also have access to their library, online resources and Students' Union.
You'll learn from tutors with real-world experience in branding, typography, and freelance design — and benefit from guest speakers, live briefs, and links with agencies.
As part of the Greater Manchester Institute of Technology (GMIoT), you'll also benefit from employer-informed learning and access to a regional network of industry partners.
You'll graduate with a strong portfolio, the confidence to take your next step — and the skills to thrive in the creative industries.
|
|
|
Students aged 16-18 do not pay exam fees.
