HNC Graphic Design

The HNC Graphic Design offers a foundation of learning by providing a broad introduction to graphic design. This develops and strengthens core skills while preparing students for specialist subjects at Level 5 or to enter employment with the qualities necessary for job roles that require some personal responsibility. Students will gain a wide range of graphic design knowledge linked to practical skills gained through research, independent study, directed study and workplace scenarios.

The programme offers students a broad overview of graphic design practice, including idea generating techniques, typography, packaging design, advertising, editorial design, contextual studies and the use of industry standard computer software (Adobe Creative Suite).

This course is delivered by highly specialised staff who have a wealth of industrial and teaching experience. The projects you will undertake will prepare you with the skills and knowledge required to progress into industry. There will be a wealth of opportunity to develop your creative practice within a supportive learning environment. The course is delivered via a combination of practical workshops, lectures, one-to-one tutorials and field trips to galleries and museums.

The HNC Graphics Design will consist of 1 module (module A – Process and Practice) This is divided into two units.

Unit A1 Concept and Development,

Concept and Development focuses on developing the key creative skills and knowledge needed within the graphic design industry. Throughout this unit you will work on a range of set briefs/projects and will cover the following topics:

• Idea generation
• Visual Narratives
• Contextual Studies
• Printmaking
• Typography
• Packaging design

Unit A2: Creative Project

The Creative Project provides students with a unique opportunity to leverage the skills acquired through prior projects and briefs. It empowers them to craft a final outcome tailored to their individual interests through a negotiated process.

Please note that project themes listed are indicative and may be subject to change. We do not guarantee that a set theme/brief will always run in any given academic year as options may be dependent on student numbers, sector requirements and staff expertise.

As part of the course, you will be assessed through a variety of assessment tasks. These include projects, portfolios, presentations, case studies, reports and research.

The assessments are intended to provide maximum opportunities for you to demonstrate the links between theoretical knowledge and understanding and practice. The assessment process will be facilitated via consideration of work-based practical scenarios in addition to reference to your own work-related practical experience, where appropriate.

Successful completion of the HNC allows progression on to the HND. Following completion of the HND you can either progress on to university to complete a top-up to a BA hons degree*, become a freelance designer or gain employment within the creative industries

*Progression to university to an honours degree, is at the discretion of the university, you would need to check if the units studied on the HND Graphic Design align with their degree programme.

Visiting artists and guest lecturers will deliver talks and technical demonstrations throughout the course. Working processes and techniques are in line with industry and this will be articulated throughout the programme. There will be opportunities to work on live briefs for local and national clients, allowing you to gain feedback to further improve your professional practice.

All learners will have the opportunity to exhibit their work both internally and externally from the college in order to create links with industry professionals.

All higher education students receive termly one-to-one tutorials with their programme leader to support them with their progress on programme. You will also have access to an online tutorial programme which provides guidance on a wide range of topics such as mental health, managing finances, support for single parents, and working online. In addition, you can access a programme of workshops throughout the year to support with topics such as study skills, academic writing, and time management.

We have a team of staff dedicated to providing learning support if it is required, and a Welfare Team that is on hand to offer guidance, support, and help when needed. All higher education students have access to a designated progress coach who can also provide welfare support.

Click here for learning support: https://wvr.ac.uk/college-life/learning-support

Click here for finance support: https://wvr.ac.uk/study/higher-education

You will typically have one of the following:

• A BTEC level 3 or other level 3 qualification in a related subject, minimum MMM or DM
• T Level with overall grade Pass
• A minimum of two A-Levels (A2) with one in a related subject at grade C or above
• Access to HE with relevant options

AND

• A* to C grade and/or 9 to 4 in GCSE English (language or literature)
• A* to C grade and/or 9 to 4 in GCSE Maths

Non-native English speakers who have not undertaken their final two years of schooling in English need to demonstrate capability in English at a standard equivalent to the levels identified below. This is necessary before being recruited to the programme, as the programme is both taught and assessed in English:

• Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) level B2
• IELTS 5.5; reading and writing must be 5.5.

We welcome applications from mature students who have appropriate work experience in a related sector or role and/or have professional qualifications in a related industry.

All HNC/HND programmes require the completion of a personal statement prior to an admissions interview being offered. You will also be required to provide a reference from one of the following options:

• A previous course leader/teacher (if progressing from a recently attended further or higher education course)
• A recent or current employer
• An appropriate professional who can provide a character reference (if you have not been in recent education or employment).

For the HNC in Graphic Design, a portfolio of recent artwork/design work is required for presentation at interview.

Students applying to study on a Higher Education course can apply for a HE student loan at www.gov.uk/student-finance

For further Finance support and enquiries please visit https://wvr.ac.uk/adults/higher-education

You will be required to purchase sketchbooks/layout pads for the duration of the course. You will also be advised to put together a collection of your own personal stationary such as fine liners & pencils. A list of desirable equipment and materials plus where to purchase these from, will be provided during induction.

In addition to materials, we run a range of local trips to local museums and galleries e.g. University of Chester, Tate Liverpool, and Manchester City Art Gallery. There is usually a cost of approximately £10 per local trip. We recommend students studying graphic design to pay for a student subscription for Adobe Creative Suite, which cost approx. £25 per month with a student subscription.

The college provides all students with an initial £3 print credit, for printing from our standard printers. Any further printing will incur a cost. Additionally, you may be required to print high quality imagery of your final designs for submission and presentation purposes, this will approx. cost between £40-£50 per academic year.