Graphic Design Full Time Programme

Bring ideas to life through creativity, visual communication and professional design skills

Level 3 Graphic Design

Duration: 2 years

This exciting and industry-focused programme is designed for students who are passionate about visual communication, branding and creative design. Through a range of practical projects, you will develop professional graphic design skills while exploring digital and traditional design techniques.

You will build a portfolio of creative work, develop your own visual style and gain experience using industry-standard software and design processes. The course prepares students for progression to university, apprenticeships and careers within the creative industries.

Throughout your studies, you will develop industry-relevant skills, knowledge and behaviours including:

  • Graphic design principles
  • Typography and layout design
  • Branding and visual identity
  • Digital illustration
  • Advertising and marketing design
  • Creative problem solving
  • Design thinking and concept development
  • User-centred design
  • Portfolio development and presentation
  • Professional creative practice 

Students will also explore:

  • Adobe Creative Cloud software
  • Digital publishing
  • Packaging design
  • Motion graphics
  • Visual communication
  • Print and digital media production
  • Design for social media and online platforms
  • Research and creative project management

We offer a range of entry points to support students at different stages of their creative journey.

Entry requirements vary according to course level. Previous qualifications, creative ability and future aspirations will be discussed during the interview process.

Applicants may be invited to bring examples of creative work, sketchbooks or a portfolio to demonstrate their interests and strengths.

Students benefit from learning in specialist creative environments designed to reflect professional design studios.

Facilities may include:

  • Dedicated graphic design studios
  • Industry-standard Apple and PC workstations
  • Adobe Creative Cloud software
  • Digital illustration equipment
  • Professional printing facilities
  • Photography and media resources
  • Exhibition and showcase spaces
  • Collaborative creative learning environments 

These facilities provide opportunities to develop professional skills while building an industry-standard portfolio.

Students may require:

  • Sketchbooks and drawing materials
  • Portfolio folder
  • Access to a laptop or digital device where possible
  • External storage device for digital work 

Further information will be provided before enrolment.

Students benefit from opportunities to engage with creative industries through:

  • Live design briefs
  • Employer-led projects
  • Industry visits
  • Guest designers and creative professionals
  • Competitions and exhibitions
  • Creative workshops and masterclasses

These experiences help students understand professional design practice and prepare for careers within the creative industries.

Further Study

  • Foundation Art and Design programmes
  • Graphic Design Degrees
  • Digital Media Degrees
  • Apprenticeships
  • Higher Technical Qualifications 

Career Opportunities

  • Graphic Designer
  • Brand Designer
  • Digital Designer
  • Illustrator
  • Marketing Designer
  • Packaging Designer
  • Web Designer
  • Content Creator
  • Creative Artworker
  • Visual Communications Designer 

Many students progress into higher education before entering careers within graphic design, advertising, marketing and the wider creative industries.

This course is a Study Programme which consists of:

  • Vocational Qualification
  • Experience of Work
  • Tutorial
  • Maths*
  • English*

*If you have not already achieved a GCSE pass at grade 4 or above in English and Maths you will study Maths and/or English as an integral part of your college programme.

Courses are free for 16-18 who have not studied higher than GCSE's, and for 19-24 with an EHCP. Even if you have studied a different course at college or sixth form we may still be able to help. Speak to the admissions team for more information. There maybe free or reduced costs for adults, contact the admissions team to see if you are eligible.

Once you have submitted your application, you will be invited to attend an interview with one of our specialist tutors.

This is an opportunity to discuss your interests, previous experience and career aspirations, explore the facilities and ensure you are enrolled on the most appropriate programme for your future goals.

Graphic Design Programme Hinckley

Full Time · Hinckley
14/09/2026

Disclaimer

The information provided about this course was accurate at the time of publication. Course details may be subject to change, often as a result of external factors such as amendments to awarding body or examination board specifications. While every effort is made to ensure that the information on this website remains accurate and up to date, prospective students are advised to confirm course details with the Admissions Team prior to enrolment to ensure the course meets their requirements. The institution accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions in the information presented.

Contact us

Need help with your application?

Telephone
0330 058 3000

Email
enquiries@nwslc.ac.uk

Online
Enquiry Form