BTEC
Careers related to studying Graphics:
The BTEC Level 3 Graphics course qualifies for UCAS points equivalent to one A level and many students who successfully complete this course often go on to study the subject at Foundation level or gain direct entry onto Degree courses, apprenticeships or the workplace.
Careers in this field include:
Graphic Designer, Illustrator, Web Designer, Computer Games Designer, Creative Art Worker, Product Designer, Architect, Teacher and various roles in Advertising/Marketing.
Course content:
The course will enable you to build a broad folder of work across a range of graphic design disciplines. This is particularly advantageous if you want to apply for a degree course. You will have the opportunity to work with professional designers on real externally set projects as well as developing your skills in areas of graphics that may include:
- typography
- layout
- advertising
- image manipulation
- packaging
- website design
- illustration
- branding
Entry requirements:
You must have achieved at least a C grade at GCSE in Technology or Art and Design.
Subject specific events:
Trips to local and national galleries and design related museums will be organised to broaden your experience of graphic design and put your studies into context.
Links will be made with local design companies allowing you to get an insight into working in this exciting sector.
Methods of study:
You will be encouraged to work imaginatively, creatively and independently at all times whilst exploring different graphic materials and techniques. Throughout your studies you will produce an extensive design portfolio addressing specific assessment criteria and this body of work will be invaluable support for university or employment interviews.
Through a range of creative design and/or make activities you will:
- develop your research and analysis skills as you study the work of current and influential designers and learn how to critically analyse their work
- improve your understanding of planning, presenting and annotating your own work
- respond to set tasks using both traditional and digital techniques as you develop 2D and 3D solutions
- regularly review and reflect on your work and make plans for your own personal development
- develop your skills and confidence in creating and presenting your work to others
Methods of assessment:
3 x Mandatory units:
Visual Recording and Communication
Externally set task with 5 weeks preparation time Portfolio/Written response/3 hour supervised assessment (33%)
Critical and Contextual Studies
Externally set task with 4 weeks preparation time Written response/5 hour supervised assessment (25%)
The Creative Process
Internally assessed/Practical/Portfolio (25%)
1 x Specialist unit:
Graphic Materials, Techniques and Processes
Internally assessed/Practical/Portfolio (17%)
You must complete the full two‐year programme of learning to achieve the qualification as it is the equivalent in size to one A‐Level.