A Level Graphic Communication

Level 3

Course Code: Q100017

Key Information

Course type:
A Levels
Campus:
Sixth Form Campus
Next Start Date:
07 Sept 2026
Duration:
2 years
Attendance:
Full-time

Fees:

Free

See all available start dates

Our A Level in Graphic Communication at City of Portsmouth College offers a fantastic opportunity to develop creative skills through exciting design projects, and understand how visual design work can inform narratives and tell stories.

You'll develop technical skills in the use of computers and creative software and also learn the process of digital design, including digital storage, image resolution and print and file formats, at industry standards.

Additionally, you'll broaden your knowledge of information design and gain an insight into why graphic design plays a vital communicative role in the world we live in.

Units include:

developing skills in the field of information design through the application and synthesis of colour, text and images
digital design techniques
using appropriate industry-standard computer software
producing traditional hand-made design work using drawing, painting and collage.

There will be opportunities to help you get ready for the world of work, including local competitions, responding to real life project briefs as well as following your own creative intentions, personalising projects that reflect you and your interests.

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Did you know?

This course can be combined with additional A Levels or a Sixth Form vocational course.

A minimum of five GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including English Language and, ideally, an art and design based subject.

You will have a 9.55am start, one lesson in the morning, one in the afternoon and a guaranteed 4.00pm finish. You will also have at least one morning and one afternoon per week free for private study.

All work is assessed and standardised internally, including the end of course practical examination project, before it is finally moderated by a senior examiner representing the examination board. In this way, rigorous, consistent and fair marking is assured for all students.

You can move on to a degree programme in graphic design or progress to a career in architecture, fashion photography, fashion design, set design for film, publishing, animation, app design, graphic design or advertising.

School Leavers under the age of 19 do not have to pay fees on any full time courses, though may have to pay for their second year if turning 19 during their studies. If you’re aged 19 or over you might qualify for an Advanced Learner Loan. It’s easy to apply for and you won’t have to pay anything back until you’re earning over £25,000. If you are studying a part-time course and you receive one of the following benefits, or you depend financially on someone who does, you may be entitled to have your tuition fees waived: Job Seekers Allowance, Income Support. You will, however, have to pay any awarding body/assessment fees (unless you are on a first full level 2 course). * If you are in receipt of Working Tax Credit or receive other allowances, you may be eligible to claim concessionary rates. If you are entitled to a fee concession you will be asked to provide proof of your entitlement. It is essential that you inform us if your entitlement changes at any time during your course.

Good to know:

We work hard to keep our course information up to date. Occasionally we may make small changes to course content, start dates, locations or fees to keep our courses current and relevant. If anything important changes after you apply, we’ll always let you know.