Foundation Degree (FdA) Graphic Design and Illustration

This studio-based foundation degree focuses on equipping students with a broad range of graphic art, design and illustration knowledge and skills. This hybrid course will suit those who have a talent for drawing and digital creation and have an interest in typography and layout.

The ethos of the programme cultivates students who understand effective design practice as well as having the conceptual abilities to demonstrate a willingness to adapt, innovate and collaborate; a response to the UK's evolving creative industries.

Experiential, active and enquiry-based learning are unique features of this foundation degree. Underpinned by experimentation, exploration and freedom of thought, students are encouraged to express their visual artistry. The development of the creative as a graphic artist or illustrator is fostered through the live briefs and diverse projects students undertake, often responding to current changes within the creative industries and the erosion of traditional parameters.

Participation in nationally recognised competitions is encouraged, as is a regular presence at major design events. Student work gains recognition from professional bodies such as Penguin, Design & Art Direction (D&AD) and Young Creative Network.

The interdisciplinary learning environment at The University Centre at Stockport College exposes students to the multi-disciplinary nature of the subject. Workshops in 3D materials and laser cutting, digital software, screen printing, printmaking and photography provide a platform from which students can build on in future projects.

Whilst applications are considered on an individual basis, offers are usually based on a requirement to have 64 UCAS points, comprising either:

GCE A levels
Level 3 vocational qualification
Access to HE Diploma

Applicants should have 4 GCSEs at grade C/4 or above including Maths and English.

Mature students with relevant work experience and/or professional qualifications are welcome to apply and may be invited to interview.

You will complete a studio-based exploratory module, work on a live brief for a client and begin to consider your future aspirations and the application of your creative processes through collaborative projects, live briefs and studio-based tasks. The Context module focuses on factors that underpin visual arts theory and practice. Students explore contemporary digital contexts such as animation, UI, 3D, moving image and interactive media. You will seek your own live project and as a creative practitioner in the industry, develop your personal brand and materials for self-promotion.

Coursework based

On completion you may choose to apply for a Level 6 top-up degree such as our BA (Hons) Contemporary Art & Design Practice, validated and awarded by Sheffield Hallam University.

On completion you will be prepared to enter into employment in roles such as: Graphic Design, Illustration, Concept Art, Motion Graphics, Production Art, Advertising, Marketing, Web Design, Social Media Marketing, Publishing, Print making, Screen printing, Interior Design, Fine Art, Games Design, Animation, Creative directing, Art Exhibitions and Events, Gallery Curation, Visual Merchandising.

Level 4 modules:

Principles- A studio-based exploratory module
Exploration- Working on a live brief
Expression- Consideration of your future aspirations and the application of your creative processes
Context 1- Exploration of the factors that underpin visual arts theory and practice.

Level 5 modules:

Digital Platforms- Exploration of contemporary digital contexts
Future-Self- Development of your practice via completion of a live project
Application- Personal investigation and reflection
Context 2- Exploration of art and design concepts relevant to chosen specialism.

Optional educational or work-based trips in the UK and internationally will be offered and a fee may be attached should you wish to participate. Where possible, we endeavour to visit free exhibitions/workshops but travel abroad will incur additional costs.

Sheffield Hallam University

12 hours a week

2 years

This foundation degree programme has been designed so that in year 1 you can experiment and learn a broad range of graphics, art, design and illustration techniques.

In year 2, concepts and techniques are further developed. You also begin to identify your chosen area of specific interest, take part in industry briefs and work experience, and refine your craft culminating in a final exhibition or porfolio of your work.

For further information please email HEenquiries@tcg.ac.uk

Although every care has been taken to ensure that the information contained within this document is accurate, there may be changes to this programme and provision. We will endeavour to keep prospective and current students updated where appropriate and when the information becomes available.