16-18 Courses, 16-18: A Levels

Graphic Design and Advertising (A Level)

Course Overview

Entry requirements

GCSE Average Points Score: 4.25, Grade 4 English Language GCSE, Grade 4 Maths GCSE, GCSE Art & Design 4 or Portfolio

Course information

If you are interested in the world of multimedia, graphic design and animation that surrounds us today and would like to share your passion for creativity consider studying Graphic Design.

Our professional standard software includes Photoshop, Procreate, Illustrator, After Effects (first year) and InDesign (second year) from the Adobe Suite. The course will combine art, illustration, typography and animating skills. Students will have opportunities to explore their imagination and creativity with digital methods and traditional hand techniques.

See examples of our students' work

Key topics

  • Follow a choice of design briefs understanding client communication using the latest technology with our Mac suite, iPads and graphics tablets
  • Explore the work of contemporary artists, graphic designers and illustrators by visiting museums, galleries and photography locations
  • Work with digital design and animation programmes
  • Explore illustration through digital, print and hands-on techniques
  • How you are assessed

    Work is assessed by coursework and an exam which is taken at the end of the two years.

    60% coursework, 40% exam.

  • Next steps

    The course is studied with two other A Levels. It may be studied alongside any of our creative courses, including Fine Art, Graphic design, Interior Design and Architecture, Photography, Product Design, Gaming or any of the Creative Media options.

    Analytical courses such as Philosophy, Sociology, Psychology, Religious Studies and Government and Politics are also complementary.

    Humanities subjects such as English, History, Geography and Geology work well as a course combination.

  • Why study at NCC?

    • We are Ofsted-rated Outstanding, so you can expect exceptional teaching and support you can trust
    • Expert tutors bring real-world industry experience into every lesson
    • Flexible learning options let you tailor study to your life and ambitions
    • Broad career pathways: from entry level through to professional qualifications
    • One-to-one support with academic advice, wellbeing services and financial guidance
    • Modern, industry-standard facilities: labs, workshops, digital tools and performance spaces
    • Courses co-designed with employers to match local and national job markets
    • Strong employer partnerships offer placements, live projects and networking opportunities
    • A supportive, inclusive community where you can flourish and succeed

    If you’re passionate about art, design, fashion or illustration, New City College is where you can experiment, create and showcase your talent.

    You’ll work across a range of media, from traditional techniques to digital and 3D design, building the skills to stand out. You’ll exhibit your work in public shows, enter national competitions, and even take on real commissions.

    Our students have collaborated with the Royal Ballet, the Saatchi Gallery and more, gaining recognition and experience along the way. Taught by practising artists and designers, you’ll build a professional portfolio that opens doors to top art schools, universities and creative careers. With exhibitions, competitions and international trips, you’ll get much more than a qualification.

Available Campuses

Dates
Start: 01/09/2025
End: 09/07/2027
Start: 01/09/2026
End: 07/07/2028

What Can This Course Lead To

Progress to university, further study or employment.

A Level Graphic Design and Advertising provides students with a portfolio for progression to the Art & Design Foundation Diploma course run at our Ardleigh Green campus, to degree level courses at university on creative subjects or into the world of work. Graphics can lead to a wide variety of careers in the creative sector, including Advertising, Illustration, Publishing, Graphic Design, Web Design, Animation, Motion Graphics, Computer Gaming, Architecture and Special Effects.

Life At NCC

Discover what life is like at the largest college in East London today!

Facilities for Students

At New City College we have a range of world-class facilities across our campuses.

Financial Support

There are several ways we can help you cover the cost of your studies.

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