UAL Level 3 Extended Diploma Graphic Design

This Level 3 UAL Extended Diploma in Graphic Design is based around practical study with theoretical learning to underpin technical and creative skills. It is suitable for a wide range of students built to allow progression to university or employment. It is a specifically designed for those interested in a career within the creative industries and more specifically the field of graphic design.

Blackburn College is part of the UAL School and College Network, and are one of only 10 in the country to achieve this status. This means that all our students will benefit from:

• Industry specialised lecturers
• Invitations to a range of relevant talks and workshops - face to face and digital
• Advice & guidance from a UAL representative
• Help with portfolio development, creative careers and pathways to industry.
• UAL set assignments

As part of the UAL network, Blackburn College tutors will also meet and share good practice with the other 9 UAL approved colleges around the country, to make sure our students are receiving the best learning experience possible. This Foundation Diploma is extremely well regarded across design education in the United Kingdom and abroad.

We have a first-class record in placing talented students on the best degree course at institutions such as Ravensbourne, Chelsea School of Art & Design, Ruskin School at Cambridge, Leeds College of Art, Goldsmiths, London College of Communication, The Slade, Wimbledon, Camberwell College of Art, Central Saint Martins and London College of Fashion. Many students on the programme also progress on to Blackburn University Centre.

The course is made up of 9 units in year one and a further 4 larger units in year two. YOu will be given a range of projects that challenge you to explore different areas of graphic communication practice including:

• typography
• illustration
• design for print (e.g. page layout and poster design)
• design for screen (e.g. web and interface design)
• packaging

All of which are supported by contextual studies throughout.

4 GCSEs at Grade 4/C including English Language or completion of a Level 2 course.

In this qualification you will engage with study through a range of creative assignments, all of which help build confidence, knowledge and skills in preparation for your final Project Proposal and Realisation at the end of year 2 in which you will specialise.

This qualification is mapped to the Level 3/4 UAL Pre-Degree Foundation Diploma at Blackburn College. Many learners wish to complete this diverse, higher level course before they progress onto University or employment.

Many students choose to progress on to Graphics related degree courses as well as other design related programmes at Blackburn University Centre which allow you to follow a range of specialisms. These include:

• Graphic Design
• Animation and Game Arts
• Photography and Moving Image 
• Fashion and Textiles
• Fine Art

These courses are all validated by UK Top 15 Lancaster University.