Graphic Design and Illustration Extended Diploma

29471W1 | Parson's Walk Centre, Wigan
Start Date | 02/09/2025
Time/Day | FULL TIME

Is this course for me?

Graphic designers are creative thinkers who use illustrative, visual and multi-media techniques to create brands, communication and messages for entertainment, advertising, promotion or publicity purposes. If you are interested in logo designs, illustration, branding, digital designs or advertising campaigns, this could be the course for you. As you progress through the course you will build the skills and knowledge for a career in the visual communications industry.

What will I study?

You will develop your skills in graphic design and illustration studies - the communication of information using type and images, digital and illustration techniques, drawing/visual studies and the history of graphics and design. You will develop a personal portfolio of work throughout the course, to help you on your chosen career pathway. All of the assignments are project based and some involve real clients. You will create an exciting range of practical work, both hand-rendered and digital to present in a professional portfolio.

How long is the course?

Full time for two academic years

How will I be assessed?

Coursework is project-based and is assessed throughout the course by your tutors. A range of assessment methods are used including external 'live' projects. You are required to evaluate your own coursework progress and in tutorials. You will not be required to sit an examination.

What qualifications do I need?

A minimum of 5 GCSE subjects graded 9-4 or equivalent including maths or English and an art related subject.

What can I progress onto?

You may secure a place on a university level course, or go directly into employment in the Graphic Design industry. Previous students have progressed on to top universities across the UK as well as the Foundation Degree in Creative Industries at the University Centre Wigan & Leigh College. Salaries for mid level designers can be up to £35000 with Creative Directors potentially earning £60000+.

Other Information

You will be taught by qualified lecturers who are also practising artists and designers. Opportunities for work experience, work related learning and guest speakers underpin the professional creative elements of the course and are part of your learning. If you are 16-18 years old, you may be eligible for our FREE bus pass. Find out more at www.wigan-leigh.ac.uk/free-bus-pass

Course Fees

16-18 Year Olds 19+ year olds Free for eligible learners? Is Loan Available?
FREE £8333.00 No Yes

Exam Fee

£250.00

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.