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Graphic Design A Level (Alton)

A Level

computer screens

Availability & Details

Graphic Communication - A Level AF1-GRCOAL/C01

Venue
Alton Campus

Type of study
A Levels

Dates
Academic Year 2027-28 (2 years)

Examination board
AQA Education

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Overview

Our Graphic Design A Level is an exciting creative arts course, using traditional and digital methods to explore and create your own original designs. The world of graphics can influence many aspects of life and cover merchandising, branding, advertising as well as illustration. This course gives you the skills to progress as a graphic designer or illustrator through a wide area of study, focusing on image and text to communicate ideas. Gallery and exhibition trips are organised to encourage critical thinking and analysis.

Five GCSEs at grade 4 or above including English Language. You should have studied an art or design based GCSE and achieved a minimum of grade 4 in the related subject. It may be possible to gain entry to this course without a GCSE in an art or design related subject by submitting a portfolio showcasing your practical work at interview.

Graphic design is a coursework assessed subject with an exam board set task which culminates in 15 hours of supervised time, and a personal investigation project where you can explore a theme and specialism of your choice, both of which you complete in year 2.

Year 1 is spent gaining skills and knowledge through a series of guided projects. Project themes include Typography, Packaging Design, Promotional Products and Magazines and will teach a variety of skills including use of Photoshop. All students have access to Photoshop at home as well as in class and the course has strong links with UCA Farnham where students enjoy an annual taster session from degree level staff.

Short tasks within longer projects and student-focused.

This course is assessed through a coursework portfolio and an externally set assignment.

We recommend that students purchase the starter pack containing equipment that is relevant to the course projects.

Many students wishing to pursue Art & Design further progress onto Higher Education or Apprenticeships within creative sectors. You will be able to develop a portfolio fit for direct entry to degree, HND or pre-degree Foundation courses. This course has prepared past students for pathways including graphic design, illustration, typography, digital media, computer animation, computer games design, advertising, fine art and architecture.


There are lots of people at the college, each studying a diverse range of courses, people from all different areas come to study here, it creates a sense of community, there is a huge social aspect to college life across all courses.

Lee Backhouse, BTEC student

I’m really happy and pleased with my grades. I really loved my time at the college, I have also made lots of friends, it’s a really nice place to be, I don’t want to leave.

Lauren Piper, A Level student

The teaching and support was really great, the quality was really great, all the teachers really care about your education as well as your wellbeing, they take everything into consideration and they’re great.

Katie Whittingham, A Level student