Art and Design: Graphics (A Level)

During this exciting two-year A Level course, students will explore creative problem-solving which combines computer graphics, advertising, animation and illustration for editorial and printed media. The software that will be used includes Photoshop, Illustrator (first year) and InDesign (second year) from the Adobe Suite. The course will combine art, typography and computer-aided design skills but students will have opportunities to work both with and without the computer. It is assessed by coursework and an exam which is taken at the end of the two years.

Graphics is an integral part of today’s society, including advertising and illustration, packaging, web design and animation. The course will develop problem-solving abilities and will introduce a variety of creative communication skills. It aims to focus students’ skills on illustration, creative idea development, typography and computer-based design. Students will explore and be taught a variety of graphic and art techniques in structured group activities.

You can expect to:

• Follow a choice of design briefs from conception to realisation
• Visit galleries and research photography locations for inspiration
• Research and explore the work of contemporary graphic designers
• Explore some illustration techniques and printmaking where appropriate
• Complete projects which may include logo design; advertising; photo-manipulation; typography; posters; editorials and other digital processes

A range of other art and design based or humanities courses are often combined with Graphics. If you have not studied a creative subject at GCSE, come to your interview or Freshers’ Day with a portfolio of at least 10 examples/images of creative work. This must be shown to a member of the Graphics team.

To explore the course specification further, please use the following link:

Edexcel AS and A level Art and Design 2015 | Pearson qualifications