Course summary
This practical, industry-led course combines digital innovation with traditional design principles, equipping you with the skills and confidence to succeed in one of the UK’s most fast-paced and evolving sectors. You’ll respond to live briefs, collaborate with real clients, and build a professional portfolio in our fully-equipped design studios using the latest software and tech. Covering everything from branding and typography to UX/UI, editorial design and motion graphics, this course doesn’t just teach you how to design – it develops your ability to think critically, solve creative problems, and communicate ideas effectively. Whether you’re looking to work in an agency, go freelance, set up your own studio, or progress to university, this qualification gives you the creative, technical and professional edge to move forward with confidence.
Modules
Units: A1 (Concept & Development), A2 (Creative Project) Focus: Build core design knowledge, skills, and industry awareness through research, experimentation, and creative development. Key Areas: Contextual Understanding – Design history, cultural and social influences, key movements (e.g. Bauhaus, Postmodernism). Idea Development – Brief analysis, research methods, brainstorming, testing, reflection. Technical Skills – Typography, layout, image editing, motion graphics, UI/UX, print and packaging. Professional Practice – Industry roles, ethics, health & safety, collaboration. Communication – Presenting ideas, pitching, using appropriate formats for different audiences. Units: B1 (Personal Professional Development), B2 (Professional Project) Focus: Apply creative, technical, and professional skills to produce industry-ready work and plan for future careers. Key Areas: Advanced Contextual Thinking – Contemporary practice, design economies, global influences. Professional Projects – Developing and managing complex briefs, working with clients/stakeholders. Refined Technical Output – Specialisms in digital/print, 3D, motion, UI/UX, VR/AR. Career Preparation – Portfolios, interviews, business planning, networking, pricing, freelance vs employment. Communication for Industry – Pitches, proposals, feedback, marketing, building a personal brand.
Assessment method
All assessment on the BTEC Higher Nationals in Graphic Design at Shrewsbury College is internally set and marked coursework. There are no exams. Creative project work (response to briefs) Research and idea development Reflective writing and evaluations Presentations and pitches Portfolio and professional documentation There are no exams. Assignments are designed to reflect real-world industry challenges and are assessed internally by your tutors at Shrewsbury College.
How to apply
29Jan
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:
- NDGD
- Institution code:
- S23
- Campus name:
- Main Site
- Campus code:
- -
Points of entry
The following entry points are available for this course:
- Year 1
Entry requirements
Qualification requirements
The completion of a HNC in Music Technology or closely related level 4 programme.
Student Outcomes
Operated by the Office for Students
There is no data available for this course. For further information visit the Discover Uni website.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
| England | £7425 | Year 1 |
| Northern Ireland | £7425 | Year 1 |
| Scotland | £7425 | Year 1 |
| Wales | £7425 | 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
No additional fees or cost information has been supplied for this course, please contact the provider directly.
Provider information
Shrewsbury Colleges Group
London Road
Shrewsbury
Shropshire
SY2 6PR