Level 5 HND Graphic Design in Blackpool. Classes run at Blackpool and The Fylde College University Centre Campus, full-time during the day. This level 5 hnd graphic design course builds on the HNC in Art and Design (Graphic Design), which you must have completed to join. You'll specialise further as a designer or illustrator and develop the commercial knowledge needed to work in the creative industries. The course runs over one year.
Who this course is for
Having built the foundational knowledge of graphic design & illustration on our HNC, you will now be in a position to specialise in modules which will take you to the next level as a practitioner. As well as developing your skills as a designer or illustrator, this Level 5 programme will look at how you apply those skills in a commercial context allowing you to acquire the necessary knowledge to work successfully in the creative industries and build a career as a creative practitioner. Understanding professional practice, developing collaborative working skills and learning how to manage creative projects successfully all form part of this key stage in your evolution as a marketable graphic designer. Additionally, you will work to further develop your creative practice building on the understanding of conceptual work and techniques from your HNC to refine your personal approach to graphic design.
Entry requirements
Successful completion of the HNC in Art and Design (Graphic Design) is a pre-requisite of entry onto the programme. You may be considered as an applicant if you have completed the first year of an Art and Design degree elsewhere, but this will be at the discretion of the course tutors.
What you will learn
You'll develop specialist skills in graphic design or illustration at a professional level.
You'll apply your design skills in commercial contexts relevant to the creative industries.
You'll build knowledge of how to work successfully as a creative practitioner.
You'll explore how to position your practice within a professional and industry-facing context.
You'll produce a body of work that demonstrates specialist creative and technical ability.
How you will learn
You'll learn through studio-based classes, project work, and practical assignments. Assessment is through coursework, design projects, and a portfolio of work rather than written exams. You'll attend daytime sessions at the University Centre Campus in Blackpool, working on briefs that reflect real commercial and creative contexts.
What you will need to bring
The centre will provide most materials. Blackpool and The Fylde College University Centre Campus will confirm anything else you need before you start.
Where next
Jobs you could do
Graphic designer: creating visual content for brands and clients
Illustrator: producing artwork for publishing, advertising, and digital media
Art director: leading visual direction on creative projects
Brand designer: developing identity and visual language for organisations
Digital designer: designing for web, apps, and social media
Packaging designer: creating product and retail packaging
BA (Hons) Graphic Design: a full honours degree for those wanting to study at Level 6. Many universities accept HND holders into the second or final year.
BA (Hons) Illustration or Visual Communication: related degree routes if you want to specialise further.
Postgraduate study (MA Graphic Design or MA Communication Design): for those who complete a degree and want to develop research-led or advanced practice.
