Free Level 3 Art and Design Course in Cambridge. Classes run at Long Road Sixth Form College, full-time over two years. This is a focused, full-time daytime art and design qualification that covers graphic design, typography, illustration, and digital skills using industry-standard software. You'll work through six projects across the two years, exploring contexts such as branding, magazine design, and book cover design. Entry requires five GCSEs at Grade 4, including English Language or English Literature, plus a relevant creative subject at Grade 4 or Merit. A portfolio of creative work may be submitted if you haven't studied a listed subject.
Who this course is for
https://www.longroad.ac.uk/graphic-design
Entry requirements
Five GCSEs at Grade 4 including: Grade 4 in GCSE English Language or GCSE English Literature Grade 4 or a Merit in one of the below subjects: GCSE Art GCSE DT GCSE Media GCSE Photography Level 2 Art Level 2 Media If one of the above subjects has not been studied, a portfolio of creative evidence could be submitted for review.
What you will learn
You'll develop skills in graphic design, typography, and image-based work.
You'll use Adobe Creative Suite software on Apple iMacs with drawing tablets and scanners.
You'll plan, research, and develop ideas across a range of design contexts, including branding, album artwork, and magazine design.
You'll apply your skills to live projects with local organisations, producing real briefs for real clients.
You'll build a personal portfolio to support applications to university or apprenticeships.
You'll practise continuous assessment, receiving grades at the end of each project to track your progress.
How you will learn
You'll learn through studio-based practical projects, with continuous assessment throughout. Grades are awarded at the end of each project rather than through a final exam. In your second year, you'll also develop a personal portfolio. Teaching takes place in a dedicated studio with access to Apple iMacs, Adobe Creative Suite, drawing tablets, scanners, and a printer.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide studio equipment, computers, and software. Long Road Sixth Form College will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Graphic designer: creating visual content for brands and publications.
Illustrator: producing artwork for books, magazines, and digital media.
Junior art director: supporting creative direction in agencies or studios.
Digital content creator: designing assets for social media and online campaigns.
Print production assistant: preparing artwork for print and packaging.
Visual merchandiser: designing in-store displays and brand environments.
What you could study next
BA (Hons) Graphic Design or Fine Art: a degree is the natural next step for many learners completing this qualification, and the portfolio you build on the course supports your application.
Higher National Certificate (HNC) or Higher National Diploma (HND) in Art and Design: a shorter higher education route into creative industries, often available at further education colleges.
Graphic Design Apprenticeship (Level 4 or above): combines paid work with structured training if you want to move straight into employment.
