Foundation Degree (FdA) Creative Industries - Graphic Design Pathway (Awarded by UCLan)

23501W1 | Parsons Walk Campus
Start Date | 08/09/2025
Time/Day | MON/WED/TH

Is this course for me?

The course focuses on ideas and innovation, delivered using the latest cloud-based industry software, moving from traditional print-based and web design solutions, to interactive and motion graphics.

ALIGNED WITH INDUSTRY

Provides the foundations and graphic design skills for the expanding creative industries.

You will visit design consultants and advertising agencies with the opportunity to work alongside local design practitioners.

Local and national employers deliver guest lectures.

WORK PLACEMENTS

You will work on live assignments and may take up an industry placement to develop your full potential.

INDUSTRY RELEVANT

Our networks with graphics industry leaders include global consultancy Pentagram and Manchester creative agency Absolute.

As part of the Greater Manchester Institute of Technology (GMIoT) we have access to the partner employer network.

INDUSTRY STANDARD FACILITIES

Industry standard equipment includes the latest cloud-based Adobe software and a multiple large format printers in a graphics studio.

EXPERIENCE OUTSIDE THE CLASSROOM

Trips to design studios at home and abroad are subsidised by the University Centre Advantage Scheme, this has in the past year included a trip to Lisbon where students met with industry professionals.

What will I study?

Modules include:

• Packaging Design

• Web/User Experience

• Branding

• Typography

• Editorial Design

• Live Industry Briefs

Specialist Units:

• Applied Digital Design

• Graphic Communication in Context

• Introduction to Graphic Communication

• Communication Craft Skills

How long is the course?

Full-time three day per week for two academic years.

How will I be assessed?

Programmes are assessed in a variety of methods, from portfolio assessments to project work and exhibitions.

What qualifications do I need?

80 UCAS points.

Mature students with experience, a portfolio of work and employer references will be considered.

Students must also have at least a Grade 4 English at GCSE or equivalent.

What can I progress onto?

You may go on to work for web-based or traditional agencies across the UK. Some take up freelance work as a graphic designer.

You may progress to another year of study to achieve the BA (Hons) Creative Practitioner (Graphics) awarded by UCLan and delivered by the University Centre Wigan & Leigh College. From there, some take up post-graduate study in the form of masters degrees in graphic design.

There are also options to progress onto a top up degree at universities across the country.

Other Information

As a student on a course awarded by UCLan you have access to their facilities including libraries, social facilities and the Students' Union.

You will be taught by tutors have a wide range of professional experience in branding and typography, with some continuing to work as freelance designers.

Course Fees

£7500.00

16-18 year olds do not pay exam fees.

Course fees shown are per annum for University Centre courses. Courses lasting longer than one year, fees will be payable per year.

All other courses show the total fees payable for the course.

If you need advice on any financial support that may be available to you, please contact us on applications@wigan-leigh.ac.uk or phone 01942 761111

Wigan & Leigh College endeavours to ensure that the information provided on the website is accurate. All courses are offered subject to student numbers and the College reserves the right to amend, withdraw or amalgamate any of the courses, fees, services, locations or facilities described at any time. The College cannot accept liability arising out of such changes or connected to such changes, however it will undertake to minimise disruption to students.