Course overview
Graphic Design HNC/D City of Bristol CollegeThe course is delivered at our College Green Campus. The Higher National Certificate has two component units, A1 and A2, that cover the wider Graphic Design sector, focusing on creative and professional practices.
The Higher National Diploma has two component units, B1 and B2, that prepare learners for advanced Higher Education study or entering the creative workplace. The programme will cover a broad range of skills and concept development workshops to start, but allow students to tailor their learning and focus within their chosen specialism. Both courses include a range of trips and visits that enhance the learning experience and allow students to build their own industry connections.
Full-time Graphic Design HNC (2 days a week)
The course code for the full-time HNC offering is: HGF1978C01-1
Alternatively, you can apply to the full-time Graphic Design HNC through UCAS
Full-time Graphic Design HND (2 days a week)
The course code for the full-time HND offering is: HGF1605D01-1
Alternatively, you can apply to the full-time Graphic Design HND through UCAS
Short code: GD
Delve into the world of Creative Arts & Media at City of Bristol College
You can view some wonderfully innovative work from our students here
Dates and applications
Please hover over the ‘i’ button to find out more about course fees and applications.
| Course Code | Dates | Days | Hours per week | Start Time | Location | Fee | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| HGF1978C01-1 | 09/09/2026 - 16/06/2027 | Thurs & Fri | 13.00 | 09:00 | College Green Centre |
This course costs £6000 per year. You can fund your studies with a Student Loan. Visit our Financial Support page to find out more.
|
Apply |
| HGF1605D01-1 | 19/09/2026 - 13/06/2027 | Mon & Weds | Enquire | 09:00 | College Green Centre |
This course costs £6000 per year. You can fund your studies with a Student Loan. Visit our Financial Support page to find out more.
|
Apply |
Additional information
Who is this course for?
If you want to develop visual design outcomes across a range of media and build professional and creative work that explores the broad subject of graphic communication, then this is the right pathway for you.
The purpose of Graphic Design and Visual Pathway is to use the Pearson Art and Design Framework to develop you as a professional. You will become a self-reflecting individual who is ready and able to meet the demands of employers and adapt to a constantly changing design industry.
The qualifications aim to widen access to Higher Education and enhance the career prospects of those who undertake them using industry-standard software, processes and scenarios built with employers to ensure a well-rounded experience to prepare you for the next stage of your career.
What you'll learn
Each unit is assignment-based and will involve a project or scenario with a vocational purpose. Assignments are designed in collaboration with our local industry links and employers, and are supported by a wide range of skills-based workshops that include:
• Typography
• Motion graphics
• Editorial design
• Packaging Design
• Advertising
• Content creation for social media
• The use of industry-standard digital software that includes the growing ethical application of AI
• Sustainable practices in the creative industries
Course entry requirements
It is expected that the applicant would have a Level 3 qualification in a related area and ideally have 32 UCAS points from these qualifications; however, we can review individual applications and would accept evidence of practical knowledge through a portfolio/showreel to be shared at interview.
How is the course delivered and assessed?
Higher Nationals are assessed using assignments that are marked internally. Our staff will design and create assignments with industry knowledge, context and scenarios, that are targeted at the unit learning content and assessment criteria, to ensure that you are prepared to undertake the assignment to the best of your ability.
The assignments will require applied knowledge and technical competency, which will be assessed based on each unit’s requirements.
All work is graded internally and verified externally.
Future career and study opportunities
On successful completion, you can develop a career in the computing sector in roles such as:
• Graphic Designer
• Advertising creative
• Packaging Designer
• Motion Graphics Designer
• UX/UI Designer
• Web Designer
• Illustrator
• Concept Designer
Higher Nationals are also used as stepping stones to further Higher Levels of Study, and successful completion of a Level 4 (HN Certificate) can allow you the to progress onto a HN Diploma, or can apply for direct entry to any second year of a Bachelor’s degree or foundation degree (subject to each individual university’s entry requirements).
Successful completion of the Level 5 (HN Diploma) will allow you to progress to a third year of a Bachelor’s degree (subject to each individual university’s entry requirements).
Additional costs
As a City of Bristol College student, you may incur additional costs to attend your course. For example, it is likely you may need to pay for travel and stationery. Many courses offer learning opportunities that you may need to pay for. This may include things like study visits and visiting speakers. We will let you know in advance if there will be additional costs.
If you are on a limited income, you may be able to receive help from our Learner Support Funding B.
