Course summary
Visual communicator, image maker, graphic designer, art director, conceptual thinker, content creator, typographer. Our programme goes beyond traditional design; it's a launchpad for changemakers. Here, you’ll develop as a design communicator, visionary, and specialist, equipped to challenge the role of graphic communication in a rapidly evolving world. From mixed-media experimentation to industry-relevant skills like branding, typography, and motion design, our hands-on approach prepares you for real-world creative problem-solving. You’ll thrive in a supportive, close-knit community with access to cutting-edge facilities and one-on-one guidance from inspiring, industry-connected staff. Be part of a creative community where collaboration and innovation redefine what’s possible. At the School, we don’t just teach design; we shape the future of visual communication. Creative Conscience Awards Human Rights Category Winner 2024 Equality & Justice Category Winner 2024 Education & Learning Category Winner 2024 Service Design Category Winner 2023
Modules
Year One - Graphic Design Foundation and Orientation In your first year (Level 4), you will be introduced to the core concepts, skills, and techniques that form the foundation of your graphic design practice. You’ll explore a variety of mediums, software, and approaches to help you understand the wide possibilities within both analogue and digital processes required as a graphic designer. This year focuses on developing your creative thinking, technical ability including, motion, typography, image making, branding and more. •Creative Processes and Experimentation • Adventures in Type • Creative Thinking • Visual Communication • Design Impact Year Two - Development and Exploration Your second year (Level 5) builds on this digital foundation, allowing you to develop more advanced, industry-standard skills and a deeper understanding of the digital sector. You will begin to define your personal direction through live briefs and self-directed projects, while building a professional portfolio that reflects your developing specialism. During this stage, you are also encouraged to seek relevant work experience and internships. • Advanced Design Production • Creative Discussion • Design Specialism & Innovation • Future Industries Year Three - Consolidation and Expertise In your final year (Level 6), you will consolidate your skills, experience, and creative identity as a graphic designer. Working on self-initiated projects, you will refine your skills and explore your future professional direction. This year provides the opportunity to realise your creative ambitions, demonstrate your digital proficiency work towards an industry role or further study. • Specialist Practice 1 • Specialist Practice 2 • Professional Futures and Final Show • Dissertation and Report
Assessment method
In course assessment. Each module is assessed upon completion and given a percentage mark.
How to apply
This is the deadline for applications to be completed and sent for this course. If the university or college still has places available you can apply after this date, but your application is not guaranteed to be considered.
Application codes
- Course code:
- W211
- Institution code:
- C71
- Campus name:
- The Northern School of Art
- Campus code:
- H
Points of entry
The following entry points are available for this course:
- Year 1
- Year 2
- Year 3
International applicants
We do not currently accept students from outside of the UK. However, we can accept applications from those have evidence of pre-settled status to live, work and study in the UK. Please contact [email protected] for more information.
Entry requirements
Qualification requirements
UCAS Tariff - 96 - 112 points
A level - CCC - BBC
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma (first teaching from September 2016) - MMM - DMM
Access to HE Diploma
Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Foundation Diploma (first teaching from September 2016)
T Level - Pass (C and above)
Your potential is our main focus when assessing your suitability for the programme you have applied to. Because of this, we take into account all aspects of your application and not just your academic profile. If you are a mature applicant (i.e. 21+ years), we will place more emphasis on your portfolio and the skills and experience you can demonstrate at interview. Your portfolio, which you bring to interview, is an integral part of the assessment. It should demonstrate your current skills, interests and knowledge where appropriate. It is also expected that you will bring evidence of written work to interview and/or have a Level 2 qualification in English/Literacy.
Please click the following link to find out more about qualification requirements for this course
https://northernart.ac.uk/study-with-us/hartlepool-campus/supporting-you/how-to-apply/
Additional entry requirements
Interview
https://northernart.ac.uk/study-with-us/hartlepool-campus/supporting-you/how-to-apply/
Portfolio
https://northernart.ac.uk/study-with-us/hartlepool-campus/supporting-you/how-to-apply/
Student Outcomes
The number of student respondents and response rates can be important in interpreting the data – it is important to note your experience may be different from theirs. This data will be based on the subject area rather than the specific course. Read more about this data on the Discover Uni website.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
| Channel Islands | £9535 | Year 1 |
| Republic of Ireland | £9535 | Year 1 |
| England | £9535 | Year 1 |
| Northern Ireland | £9535 | Year 1 |
| Scotland | £9535 | Year 1 |
| Wales | £9535 | Year 1 |
Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website .
Additional fee information
Provider information
The Northern School of Art
University Level Campus
Church Square
Hartlepool
TS24 7EX
