Foundation Degree (FdA) - Graphic Design and Advertising

This programme prepares young creatives as graphic designers, conceptual art directors and copywriters for work in the graphic design and advertising industries.

Year one establishes the ethos of the course through to a common core studies programme and through learning essential techniques and skills. Some of the specialist modules include:
• Introduction to graphic design
• Design process
• Computing for graphic designers
• Creative typography
• Advertising
• Professional practice for designers
• Critical design study
• Digital imaging
• Visual communication
• Photography.

Students are encouraged to develop their own pathway in year two by gaining an
understanding of the culture of graphic design and advertising. Throughout the programme, project briefs will be integrated with live and competition briefs. The culmination of the course is an independently developed practical project through which students can showcase their work and creative practice to potential employers. This course is also offered as a part-time programme.

Progression
Students may progress to the BA (Hons) Graphic Design for Print and New Media degree programme (one year) at Dunstable College. For more information, please contact the College for an HE course guide. Students can also go into design-related employment such as advertising agencies, design consultancies, publishing
houses, publicity/promotions departments and television or set up their own design business or become freelance graphic designers/illustrators.

Entry requirements
Applicants will need either a National Diploma in Graphic Design or GAD, a Diploma in Foundation Studies in Art and Design, an Access qualification, GNVQ Advanced in Art and Design or relevant A levels. Students with no formal qualifications but who have an appropriate background, interest or industrial experience will also be considered.

Applicants need:
• to be 18 years old or over
• an aptitude and enthusiasm for art and design
• to present a portfolio of work at an informal interview.

Assessment
Student will be continually assessed through assignments.

Length
Two years, full-time, consisting of two 15-week semesters per year. This course may also be studied on a part-time basis, please call for further details.

How to apply
Via UCAS.

UCAS course codes
University of Bedfordshire course code: WNF5
University of Bedfordshire institution code: B22
Institution name: BEDS
Campus code: O
Short form of course code: FdA/GDA