Key Facts

BTEC Level 3 Graphic Design

This course in Graphic Design is all about visual communication. We see it around us every day in advertising, magazines, books, posters, billboards, logos, and websites. The work of a Graphic Designer is evident anywhere a message, an idea or an emotion needs to be conveyed with words or images, or a combination of both. The course will also give students the opportunity to appreciate the work of other artists and designers and to learn about associated professional practice.

  • Entry Requirements


    We will invite you to a Meet the Tutor event where you will receive information, advice, and guidance about the course you have applied for. This will be an opportunity for you to gain valuable information about the course and give you the opportunity to ask any questions you may have.

    You will provide a copy of your last school report and / or a reference from an employer or relevant professional other this will include attendance. This is to ensure we can support to be able to achieve well on the course. Applicants with 85% or below attendance will have been deemed not to have met this criteria. All applicants are given an opportunity to discuss any evidence based mitigating circumstances that may have affected the reference / school report.

    A portfolio or example of your work to demonstrate that you have the appropriate level of skill required to succeed on the course. We love to see your creativity!

    4 x GCSE's at C/4 or above, or a Level 2 Certificate / Extended Certificate or above (at merit or above) in a relevant subject.

    You will have gained either English and/or maths at GCSE C/4 or above, or L2 Functional skills in English and/or maths.

    We are firmly committed to finding the right course for you to ensure you can flourish. Talk to us today if you have any concerns about the application process, we are here to help take you to the next level.

  • Course Content


    This course will give you a broad knowledge and understanding of graphic design. Through a range of projects, this course creates evidence in the following areas of skill: Informing Ideas, Problem Solving , Technical Skills, Professional Practice, and Visual Communication. Typical projects include lettering and typography, illustration, packaging, logo design, poster design, and digital design. There are opportunities for live design briefs in partnership with local organisations. There are visits to galleries, museums and other locations.

  • Progression Next Steps


    The BTEC Level 3 Graphic Design is an ideal route for students looking for places at universities and colleges, or careers in Graphic Design and related subjects. Alternatively, you could expect to be employed in the creative industries at junior level. You will have access to a range of career and further/higher education opportunities. Students progress onto specialist courses at Degree, Higher National Diploma, or Foundation Degree level: you will be advised and supported in your UCAS applications with help on appropriate routes and portfolio preparation.

    There are lots of opportunities available to you to progress across the South Thames Colleges Group and into the world beyond education.

    During your time with us you will have access to a dedicated team of careers and education advisors who will help you as you take the next steps towards achieving your goals.

  • Additional Information


    While some materials and equipment are provided, you will be expected to pay for most of your own equipment and materials, much of which is available from the College shop. There will also be a number of trips and visits throughout the course which will incur some costs. For further, course specific information please contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.