
Which Graphics Course?
Choosing the right Graphic Design Course can be a minefield, so many variations, such a massive constantly evolving industry, Web Design? Graphic Design? New Media? Illustration? Advertising? Moving image?
If you have a creative but confused mind you can come along for an advisory interview, meet the staff, learn more about what we do, meet with students, look at their work and get some good solid advice on your future and what the course could do for you – if we don’t think you are suited to Graphics then our specialist team will advise you on which area within design you should be aiming for – and even set up an interview for you.
Specialist areas of Graphic Design and new Media we cover
Advertising
Illustration
Typography
Computer Graphics
Design for print
Moving image
Creative writing
Photography
Visual studies
Which area of Graphic Design is right for you?
The simple answer is we don’t know! We have no preconceived idea of which area you might specialise in throughout the 2 year course.
We view your 2 years with us as a journey, sometimes it’s a roller coaster. We have an open mind, we need you to have the same - we will teach you stuff you don’t yet know about and find out what you are good at.
Year 1 speeds along at a full on pace, you will learn about College life, how to follow a brief, how to research a subject and respond with creative solutions, how to be experimental and how to come up with and develop ideas.
This won’t be your only challenge – throughout Year 1 you will improve your drawing skills, learn about Applemac computer programmes, learn about Design History, take on an AS level and even have a go at creative writing.
Year 1 is about an all round experience, giving you the grounding and knowledge to progress onto year 2 with confidence.
How do we do all this?
Through a staff team with a variety of specialist backgrounds in Advertising, Illustration, Computer Graphics and Typography who have a solid grasp of the ever changing Graphic Design Industry and exciting New Media.
All staff are also practicing Designers with a background history in Graphics – OK we’re Graphic geeks! We’re just mad for it! We never tire of it, it’s our passion.
Other stuff - Year 1 Residential
Now in it’s third year - a fantastic bonding exercise for new students, especially if you don’t know anyone and are experiencing a cultural shock wave after being at school for most of your life. The trip lasts around 3 days and gives you the opportunity to make new friends and get to know the staff.
Past trips have included youth hostelling in Settle and the Lake District, spending time drawing, photography, canoeing, cycling, walking or just chilling with your new mates. The only negative student feedback we get is ‘it’s not long enough’ or ‘can we go again soon?’
Dye your hair blue?
Maybe not, but College life gives you the freedom to express yourself, to shake off the school uniform and develop your own style.. Students are encouraged to think for themselves, a tough call after years of school life, school discipline, dress code and sitting exams.
We will encourage you to become an individual and most importantly to have the confidence to have a voice, to express your ideas, think for yourself and explore the creativity inside you. We work on a 1 to 1 with students, responding to their individual learning needs and skills.
Year 2 - Life in the fast lane
After surviving the challenges of year 1 the adventure continues, students are encouraged to specialise into their chosen area if they feel ready. Students have the knowledge they need to select the brief that’s right for them – whether it’s Advertising, Computer Graphics, Film making or Illustration.
We carefully select our Units, projects and live competitions to give year 2 students the opportunity to find their specialism. Staff are also more than happy for students to keep changing their minds, keep trying new areas or challenging themselves with new media.
What do I need and how do I apply?
A minimum of 4 GCSE’s at C or above, preferably English and a related art subject, if you have higher level qualifications even better – if you are a mature student wanting a career pathway change then we would also like to meet you.
All students can come along for an advisory session to discuss the Course, funding, costs involved, student life, meet the team and have a look around.
What are you waiting for…?
Jayne Delaney
Course Tutor
ND Graphic Design Communication
Apply to Bradford College admissions or online (info)
This is your opportunity to join to one of the most innovative and exciting courses in the UK. For more information contact the Student Information Desk on 01274 438998.