Free Level 3 Art and Design Course in Barnsley. Classes run at Barnsley College, full-time during the day. This two-year art and design qualification focuses on graphic design, exploring how words, symbols, and images work together to communicate ideas. You'll cover a wide range of specialisms within the discipline. Entry normally requires five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English. You'll usually attend an interview and are encouraged to bring a portfolio.
Who this course is for
This course provides an opportunity for those who have an interest in the visual arts to explore, develop and test their creativity within a qualification structure which is stimulating and demanding and provides a supportive transition from further to higher education.
You will explore a wide range of art and design disciplines within your Diploma year of study including workshops in printed textiles, ceramics, printmaking, wood work, jewellery and metal work, developing your skills through 9 units of practical work and theoretical study. Your work will be enhanced through educational and gallery visits; previous years have visited galleries in New York, London and Paris.
Within the Extended Diploma you will focus on your personal development in art and design completing a further 4 units, work on live briefs and develop an individual exhibition project. You will continue to build your confidence and abilities to independently use the workshops to create a varied portfolio of work.
Employment - This course can form the foundations for a range of creative occupations including Graphic Designer, Artist, Entrepreneur, Fashion or Textile Designer, Illustrator, Fine Artist, Interior Designer, Product, Jewellery or Ceramic Designer or Teacher.
Education - You could progress to university, studying a variety of art, design, fashion and crafts disciplines or other higher level qualifications such as a Higher National Diploma (HND).
Entry requirements
Four GCSEs at grade A* to C one must be an art related subject plus GCSE English at grade 4 or above
Students will normally take part in an interview prior to being enrolled on the programme
Applicants are advised to bring a portfolio of work to their interview in order to demonstrate their interests and abilities
Where applicants do not quite meet the entry requirements, the tutor may use their discretion based on the portfolio and interview
What you will learn
You'll develop skills in combining words, symbols, and images to communicate ideas visually.
You'll explore a range of specialisms within graphic design.
You'll build a portfolio of creative work across different briefs and projects.
You'll learn how to present and articulate your design ideas professionally.
You'll study how design functions within the broader communications industry.
How you will learn
You'll learn through studio-based classes at Barnsley College, working on practical design projects and briefs. Assessment is typically through a portfolio of coursework and project work rather than written exams. You'll develop your portfolio throughout the two years, with tutor feedback guiding your progress.
What you will need to bring
Bring a portfolio of your creative work to the interview before you enrol. The centre will confirm any materials or equipment you need before the course starts.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Graphic designer: creating visual content for brands and campaigns.
Junior art director: shaping the visual direction of creative projects.
Visual communicator: producing design work across print and digital media.
Layout artist: arranging text and images for publications or marketing.
Digital content creator: producing graphics for social media and online platforms.
Illustrator: creating original artwork for commercial or editorial use.
What you could study next
Foundation Diploma in Art and Design: a one-year course that prepares you for degree-level study in art and design.
BA (Hons) Graphic Design: a degree that deepens your specialism and opens senior creative roles.
BA (Hons) Illustration or Fine Art: if your interests develop in a different creative direction during the course.
