Full Name of specification
Art and Design: Graphic Communication
Exam board specification link
Entry requirements
A level 6 in an Art and Design GCSE; portfolios also considered
Why study this course?
An A level in Graphic Communication is an excellent complement for other art courses at A level. It is also an excellent basis on which to apply to study the subject further at art college or university as, along with the skills, it will provide you with the portfolio you will need for your application. It is also very useful if you wish to work or study in areas relating to design, fashion and architecture. The course will develop your skills in drawing and visualisation and these have value far beyond courses such as those mentioned already.
What can you expect from this course?
This course encompasses a wide and developing area of study, incorporating a variety of related disciplines and utilising traditional skills, such as hand-formed lettering, alongside cutting-edge digital technologies. The boundaries between related graphic processes are becoming increasingly blurred but aspects, such as advertising, illustration and typography provide an indication of what might be covered within the option. Possible areas of study include: illustration, typography, advertising and branding, book covers and record covers.
How is it assessed?
60% Coursework (1000-3000 word supplementary essay), 40% externally set exam
Read more here
How will it prepare me?
The creative pathway lays the foundation for both the technical, analytical and problem-solving skills required for future creative and academic endeavours. Students will not only create a portfolio of work to represent their skills and interests, but also will gain confidence in their abilities as creators. Students develop understanding of visual communication and how images can impact and influence others. Students will learn a range of Graphic Design skills which will prepare the for work in a number of creative careers,
Future career ideas:
- graphic design
- animator
- concept artist
- games designer
- photographer
- advertising and marketing
- architecture
- film, TV, video, radio
- IT, software and computer services
- Publishing
- museums, galleries and libraries
What will I study?
Design a civilisation project (skills based)
Exhibition Project: Christmas Challenge
Exhibition Project
Personal Investigation Project
Externally Set Exam
Additional activities within this subject
Animation, Character Development, Photography
Frequent visits to exhibitions
Wider reading list
End of Print, D. Carson
Published by Cinko Press, ISBN 978-1856692168
AGI: Graphic Design Since 1950, B. Bos
Published by Thames & Hudson, ISBN 978-0500513422
The A-Z of Visual Ideas, J. Ingledew
Published by Laurence King, ISBN 978-1856697149
History of Graphic Design (4th Edition), P. Meggs, A. Purvis
Published by John Wiley & Sons, ISBN 978-0470168738
You may also enjoy studying
Art, Lens Based Media, Film, English
Teachers
Philip Rogers