Free Level 3 Art and Design Course in Barnsley – Barnsley College

CostFREE
Duration2 years
LevelLevel 3
DeliveryClassroom based
Start7 Sep 2026
Study modeFull-time
AttendanceDaytime
Awarding bodyUAL Awarding Body

About this course

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

Graphic designers are visual communicators; creating and combining words, symbols, and images to dynamically and professionally express ideas and messages. This course aims to identify and develop new and exciting talent for this ever growing communications specialism. It is designed to explore a wide range of specialisms within graphic design.

Entry requirements

Five GCSEs at grade 4 including English You will normally take part in an interview prior to being enrolled on the programme and 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.

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