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JULY2026

Graphic Design

Higher National Certificate

HNC in Graphic Design - master design thinking, typography, layout and digital practice through real briefs and portfolio-building projects.

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Why this course?

Build a structured, practical foundation in visual communication with a Higher National Certificate in Graphic Design. Beginning with a four-lesson Foundation Unit, you'll develop core competencies in design thinking, observation, visual storytelling and problem-solving. You'll then progress through 15 lessons that take you across the full design process - from research and concept development to execution and presentation.

Along the way you'll grow technical fluency in typography and hierarchy, grid-based layout for print and screen, colour and imagery (photography/illustration), packaging and digital design, while using industry-standard software and production techniques. Each lesson combines creative exploration with hands-on tasks and reflective critique. You'll also practise essential professional skills—project planning, communication and pitching, managing feedback, and presenting work confidently across platforms.

Real-world briefs and staged assessments prepare you for the expectations of the creative industries. Regular formative feedback sharpens craft and decision-making before final submission, and you’ll gain experience working with clients, managing resources and collaborating in teams.

By the end of the programme you'll have a coherent portfolio, a clear sense of your strengths, and the knowledge to pursue junior roles or continue to higher study. You'll have access to our Online Learning Centre - your virtual campus with course content, learning resources, learning services, tutor support, assessment materials and an active forum where students and tutors share work and feedback.

Quality assurance: aligned with the QAA Quality Code, QAA Subject Benchmark Statements, the Framework for Higher Education Qualifications (FHEQ) and Advance HE principles for academic rigour and professional relevance.

Workload & pacing: approximately 1,200 learning hours - typically 1 year full-time or 2 years part-time. Faculty support is available year-round so you can set a study pace that suits you.

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Work placement - Graduates of this course are eligible for a one month work placement with a graphic design company. All placements are made in the greater London, Manchester, Birmingham and Edinburgh areas.

COURSE DETAILS

About this course

Course Level

Level 4 on the RQF

Course Duration

This course typically takes approximately 9-18 months to complete.

Course Assessment

11 online formative assignments and 3 online summative assignments



Graduation & what to expect

UPCOMING

Higher National Certificate courses

View the next available start dates for this course and choose the option that works best for you, including Home Study, Classroom Based and Live Online study. Select a course below to see the schedule, location and fees.

Date Start Date:
ANYTIME
HOME STUDY
The Home Study course allows you to learn entirely at your own pace and can be started anytime.

Best for: Students who want complete flexibility and prefer to study independently.

SCHEDULE

Online Self-Directed Learning

£2,295 Payment plans available
Enrol now
Date Next Intake:
SEPTEMBER 2026
LIVE ONLINE
Live-online classes are available as either full-day Saturday sessions or weekday evenings.

Best for: Students who want live teaching and interaction with other students while studying from home.

LOCATION

Virtual Classes by Zoom

AVAILABLE SCHEDULES

12 full days, Saturdays

Starts: September 12th (09:30 - 16:30)

View schedule
Or

24 evenings, Thursdays

Starts: September 17th (18:30 - 21:00)

View schedule
£3,245 Payment plans available
Enrol now
Date Next Intake:
SEPTEMBER 2026
CLASSROOM BASED
In-person classes are available as either full-day Saturday sessions or weekday evenings.

Best for: Students who enjoy learning practical skills in a classroom environment alongside other creatives.

AVAILABLE LOCATIONS

AVAILABLE SCHEDULES

12 full days, Saturdays

Starts: September 12th (09:30 - 16:30)

View schedule
Or

24 evenings, Thursdays

Starts: September 17th (18:30 - 21:00)

View schedule
£4,275 Payment plans available
Enrol now
info

Entry requirements: To enrol on this course, you must be over 18 years of age.
If English is not your first language, we recommend you have at least level 5.5 IELTS or equivalent. Or, have completed your last two years of schooling through English.

BTEC

BTEC

Accreditation

The National Academy of Creative Arts has partnered with global educational experts Pearson Education to offer BTEC courses to our students. These courses are a recognised route to university, leading to the final year of a degree course or progression on to other professional qualifications.

STUDY MODES

Explore Our Flexible Learning Paths

Not sure which learning format is right for you? Compare our flexible study modes to understand how Home Study, Classroom Based and Live Online courses work, and how each option supports your learning.

Choosing your study mode

Home Study courses allow you to learn entirely at your own pace.

You will study through the Online Learning Centre, which provides access to instructional videos, written lessons, and course assignments, working through course materials and assignments independently while receiving feedback and guidance from your designated tutor.

There are no scheduled classes or assessment submission dates, giving you maximum flexibility to study around work, family, or other commitments.

Best for: Students who want complete flexibility and prefer to study independently.

Home Study

Classroom courses combine flexible online learning with in-person practical classes.

You will complete your course materials and assignments through the Online Learning Centre, guided by a designated tutor while also attending practical classes taught by an industry professional.

These sessions focus on hands-on skills, demonstrations, and practical techniques, rather than assessment delivery.

Students attend 12 monthly classes held on Saturdays, or 24 weekly sessions, held in the evening.

Classes are available in London, Birmingham, Manchester, Edinburgh, Belfast, Cardiff, and Bristol.

Best for: Students who enjoy learning practical skills in a classroom environment alongside other creatives.

Classroom Based

Live Online courses offer the same structure as our classroom courses, but with live teaching delivered online.

You will complete your course materials and assignments through the Online Learning Centre, guided by a designated tutor while also attending practical classes taught online by an industry professional.

These sessions focus on demonstrations, practical skills, and discussion, helping you apply what you are learning in your course.

Students typically attend 12 monthly classes or 24 weekly sessions in a small group environment.

Best for: Students who want live teaching and interaction with other students while studying from home.

Live Online

MAP

Class Locations

The National Academy of Creative Arts runs in-person classes in the following locations. Live-online and home-study courses are also available and can be completed from the comfort of your own home.

View Upcoming classes

OUTCOMES

What will you learn?

Understand core design elements: layout, color, and typography

Learn how these elements combine to create visually balanced, appealing personal design projects.

Explore essential design tools and creative techniques

Get comfortable using basic software and tools to begin creating digital designs for personal projects.

Create simple designs like flyers and social media graphics

Design your own layouts and visuals to communicate ideas clearly and creatively for personal expression.

Build confidence expressing ideas visually with creativity

Develop the skills and mindset to translate ideas into simple, impactful graphic compositions.



Our teaching approach

PROGRAM

Course Overview

Immerse yourself in the exciting world of graphic design, where creativity meets strategy to transform ideas into compelling visual stories. This module offers an in-depth look at how graphic design influences brands and consumer behavior, alongside a comprehensive introduction to the field's essential elements, principles, and diverse specializations. Perfect for aspiring designers, you'll evaluate your personal learning style and digital competencies while mastering essential design tools, paving the way for a successful career in the industry.

Key learnings:

  • Purpose and Impact of Graphic Design
  • Design Elements and Principles
  • Specialisations and Career Pathways
  • Learning Style and Digital Skills Audit
  • Intro to Core Design Tools

Master a practical, repeatable design process from discovery to delivery, transforming your creative ideas into impactful results. Learn how to strategically plan research, gather meaningful insights, and translate inspiration into structured, testable design concepts using mood boards, concept boards, and case studies. Develop habits of analysis and iteration to enhance your design directions and achieve your creative goals with purpose.

Key learnings:

  • Planning and Research Fundamentals
  • Visual Analysis and Insight Gathering
  • Mood and Concept Board Development
  • Case Studies and Best Practices
  • Iterative Design Process

Unlock the power of visual communication to create captivating designs that speak directly to your audience. Dive into the world of color systems and accessibility to ensure your designs are inclusive. Master the art of typographic selection and hierarchy, and learn how to design layouts that capture attention and convey meaning with precision. Through hands-on exercises, transform theory into compelling, brand-aligned designs that resonate with your audience.

Key learnings:

  • Inclusive Colour Systems
  • Typography Selection and Hierarchy
  • Effective Layouts and Composition
  • Design Contrast, Rhythm, and Balance
  • Brand-focused Style Application

Enhance your design skills by mastering the art of analytical thinking and transforming critiques into actionable improvements. Dive into engaging design case studies, where you'll learn to align decisions with project objectives. Then, showcase your creativity with a design makeover task that brings all your insights to life. With structured reflection, you will confidently prepare for assessments and elevate your design prowess.

Key learnings:

  • Frameworks for Design Analysis
  • Brief Components and Criteria
  • Design Makeover and Justification
  • Reflective Practice and Planning
  • Assessment Readiness

Unlock the potential of graphic design in transforming society and delve into its diverse disciplines. Experience firsthand how context influences the meaning of visuals, from vibrant street art to sleek functionalist designs. Dive into a rich history of visual communication and develop essential skills in ideation and reflection through effective sketchbook practices. This journey will empower you to harness creativity and make impactful design choices.

Key learnings:

  • Design's Role and Diverse Disciplines
  • Context and Meaning in Visual Design
  • Exploring Design History
  • Mastering Effective Sketchbook Techniques
  • Recording Ideas and Reflecting Creatively

Unlock the secrets of compelling design with a solid grasp of essential elements like shape, colour, and texture, and the principles that bring them to life. Dive into topics such as hierarchy, balance, and contrast while mastering Gestalt theory to create stunning, inclusive compositions. Our hands-on exercises in tonal value, grids, and accessible colour use will empower you to craft visually appealing designs that captivate and engage.

Key learnings:

  • Core Elements and Principles
  • Visual Hierarchy and Gestalt Theory
  • Tonal Value and Contrast Mastery
  • Effective Use of Grids and Layout
  • Inclusive Colour Theory and Accessibility

Unlock the secrets to understanding client briefs and conducting impactful research that shapes design decisions. Dive into both primary and secondary research methods, from insightful case studies to comprehensive surveys. You'll master research ethics, learn how to avoid bias, ensure source credibility, and then leverage your findings in a practical case study that will elevate your design projects.

Key learnings:

  • Decoding Client Briefs
  • Effective Research Techniques
  • Case Studies and Surveys
  • Maintaining Research Integrity
  • Integrating Research into Design

Unlock your creativity and turn insights into compelling concepts with our structured ideation approach. Dive into dynamic brainstorming sessions using SCAMPER, mind mapping, lateral thinking, and De Bono's Thinking Hats to explore a world of innovative possibilities. Ensure your designs are inclusive and impactful with colour accessibility and contrast checks, guaranteeing clarity, legibility, and alignment with stakeholder needs. Finally, bring your ideas to life with a packaging design project inspired by historical movements.

Key learnings:

  • Ideation Frameworks and Tools
  • Sketching, Mood Boards, and Mapping
  • Inclusive Design: Contrast and Colour-Blind Safe
  • Testing, Feedback, and Iteration
  • Applied Project: Packaging Design

Transform your project idea into a visually stunning reality by starting with a strategic plan. Dive into your project brief, set clear goals, and unleash the power of branding and identity through visual language. Our engaging poster design exercises guide you through the creative process, ensuring you master the design cycle and make informed decisions on typography, color schemes, layout, and brand consistency.

Key learnings:

  • Brief Review and Goal Setting
  • Branding and Identity Foundations
  • Poster Design and Visual Language
  • Design Cycle and Workflow
  • Evaluation Across Core Elements

Unlock the secrets of combining type and imagery to create powerful messages that captivate and communicate. Dive into the fascinating history of typography, explore its anatomy, and discover how to select the right genre to enhance your designs. Master the art of creating imagery using both raster and vector workflows, and bring your ideas to life with a hands-on project that merges digital and analogue methods for a stunning impressionistic image.

Key learnings:

  • Discovering Type History and Anatomy
  • Enhancing Legibility, Readability, and Tone
  • Mastering Raster and Vector Image Creation
  • Digital and Analogue Techniques for Design
  • Create Stunning Impressionistic Images

Unlock your creative potential with our comprehensive toolkit designed for aspiring designers! Master the art of photography by gaining control over camera settings and lighting to capture stunning images. Develop your skills in creating editorial layouts with a compelling hierarchy. Dive into the exciting world of packaging by exploring various structures and materials. Each module features hands-on, portfolio-ready projects that will enhance your expertise and set you apart in the design industry.

Key learnings:

  • Photography for Designers
  • Editorial Layout and Composition
  • Packaging Types and Materials
  • Structural and Visual Considerations
  • Hands-On Multi-Format Projects

Unlock the potential of your digital products with our comprehensive UI and UX training. Dive into the essentials of crafting user-friendly interfaces, and learn how to build seamless experiences that captivate and retain users. Master the art of information architecture, discover interaction patterns, and leverage motion principles to bring your designs to life. With hands-on practice in storyboarding and hierarchy, you'll design intuitive screens and flows that prioritize user satisfaction.

Key learnings:

  • UI/UX Principles and Patterns
  • Information Architecture Basics
  • Web Usability and Interaction
  • 12 Principles of Motion in UI
  • Storyboarding and Hierarchy

Transform your design process with our comprehensive guide to building professional workflows, taking your projects from brief to stunning print-ready output. Master the essentials of documentation, testing, and file management, while diving into advanced print techniques and premium finishing options to create captivating designs with precision.

Key learnings:

  • Documentation and Quality Assurance
  • Effective Version Control and File Formats
  • Exploring Cutting-edge Print Methods
  • Enhancing Designs with Premium Finishes
  • Meeting Market Standards with Confidence

Elevate your project with cutting-edge ideation and enhanced technical control. Dive into creative role-play, explore dynamic scenarios, and utilize forced relationships to unlock innovative solutions. Perfect your layouts using grids, flat plans, and binding options for polished design outcomes. Harness the power of CAD tools and Illustrator workflows to make precise and scalable design decisions that set your project apart.

Key learnings:

  • Advanced Ideation Techniques
  • Innovative Layout Strategies
  • CAD and Illustrator Mastery
  • Feedback-Driven Refinement
  • Principles-Guided Design Decisions

Master the art of professional communication to elevate your business interactions. Discover how to customize your pitches, feedback sessions, and approval documents for each unique audience. Enhance your skills in managing assets while adhering to ethical standards, including accessibility, licensing, and copyright. You'll gain hands-on experience in creating mock-ups, print-ready files, and digital previews, ensuring your work is delivered confidently and effectively.

Key learnings:

  • Audience-Specific Communication
  • Project and Asset Management
  • Ethics: Accessibility and Copyright
  • Information Visualisation Techniques
  • Mock-Ups, Prepress, and Previews

Unlock the art of persuasive presentations with our comprehensive training, designed to elevate your skills using dynamic tools like PowerPoint, Canva, and Prezi. Master the essentials of crafting compelling narratives, perfect your timing and delivery, and become attuned to your audience's needs. Whether in digital or physical settings, you'll refine your pitch through interactive feedback, ensuring your presentations captivate and inspire.

Key learnings:

  • Presentation Platforms and Formats
  • Structure, Timing, and Narrative Crafting
  • Effective Pitching and Feedback Techniques
  • Audience Awareness and Adaptive Strategies
  • Professional Workflow for Effective Delivery

Unlock the potential for resilience and growth with our reflective practice module. Discover effective methods for gathering impactful feedback through surveys, interviews, and the "What Went Well/Even Better If" approach. Learn how to transform these insights into actionable improvements, develop strategies for handling critique, and maintain your well-being. Equip yourself with tools to thrive personally and professionally.

Key learnings:

  • Feedback Collection and Analysis
  • Reflective Frameworks and Guides
  • Actionable Iteration Plans
  • Emotional Resilience and Mindset
  • Individual and Group Reflection

Embark on a journey to unlock your full potential by exploring the diverse landscape of creative, technical, and managerial roles. Discover essential hard and soft skills, master time and resource planning, and gain insights into effective team structures and wellbeing. This comprehensive experience is designed to culminate in a personal development plan tailored to your unique career aspirations.

Key learnings:

  • Industry Roles and Pathways
  • Skills Audit and Gap Planning
  • Team Structures and Collaboration
  • Health, Safety, and Wellbeing
  • Personal Development Planning

Elevate your project to a professional standard with our comprehensive program. You'll expertly integrate research, concepts, and execution to produce polished results. Create an impressive digital portfolio and craft a compelling video presentation to showcase your work. With structured reflection, you'll be fully prepared for your next steps in practice or study, ensuring you stand out in your field.

Key learnings:

  • End-to-End Project Synthesis
  • Portfolio Structure and Curation
  • Video Presentation Techniques
  • Professional Behaviours and Standards
  • Progression Planning

TUTORS

Meet Our Graphic Design Educators

All our tutors are creative professionals working in the industry.

See all tutors

FAQ

Can't find what you need?

Find answers to commonly asked questions about admissions, programs, financial aid, and more. If you have a question that's not listed here, feel free to reach out to us directly.

Once you have registered on a course, you will receive login details to the student area of our website called the Online Learning Centre. This is where you will be able to access all your course materials which include: practical, instructional videos; written content on a variety of topics tailored to your subject area; and vocationally relevant assignments. All course materials are created by industry experts.

When you register for a course, you will be assigned your tutors and be given login details to the student area of our website called the Online Learning Centre. Your supportive tutors will guide you through the learning process and you can contact them directly by email or through the forum which can be accessed through the Online Learning Centre.

If you have any issues or questions about the Online Learning Centre, your payments, your student card or upgrading your course, you can contact Student Services.

Yes. All course training videos include subtitles and our tutors are dedicated to providing a seamless learning experience for all students. If you have any specific learning requirements, please contact Student Services at the earliest opportunity.

No. There is no requirement to attend all classes if you are doing a classroom-based course. However, we recommend that you attend as many classes as possible so that you can get the support you need to help you complete your course.

By choosing one of our classroom-based courses, you have the benefit of attending classes either every other Saturday or one evening a week. Whatever option you choose, you'll receive the guidance and support of our expert tutors, while also being able to complete the assignments at your own pace. This approach ensures that you receive the optimum support and knowledge required, with the least amount of disruption to your personal schedule.

Assignments are designed to be vocationally relevant to your area of study. In general, the skills you demonstrate in your first assignment will be built upon as you work through each assignment. This progression will ensure you can confidently use these skills in real-world scenarios. With the careful guidance of your tutors, you will be asked to submit a range of work which will include written assignments, practical work, presentations and more.

Completed assignments are uploaded to our Online Learning Centre. You will get access to the Online Learning Centre once you register for your course.

We provide student cards at no additional charge. Simply request a student card by contacting Student Services or through the Online Learning Centre, which you will be given access to once you register for your course. You will then receive your student card by post within two weeks. While you don't need a student card to attend class, we recommended requesting one as many retailers will offer discounts to student card holders.

The British Education and Training Council (BTEC) has been the most successful applied learning brand for over 25 years. BTEC is administered by Edexcel who are owned by Pearson Education, the world's largest education brand.

BTEC courses are vocational courses which allow students to gain the practical skills needed to enter directly into the workforce. You can also use the credits awarded on our BTEC courses towards advanced entry into a university degree.

The National Academy of Creative Arts is a BTEC Approved Centre and an Edexcel Approved Centre. Our staff, tutors and courses have been thoroughly vetted and are continually monitored by Edexcel, who are owned by Pearson, the world's largest education company.

In addition to this, we run BTEC accredited courses (BTEC Higher National Certificate and BTEC Higher National Diploma) which allow students to gain the practical skills needed to enter the workforce or to use the credits awarded by this qualification towards advanced entry into a university degree.

We are also recognised by the International Approval and Registration Centre (IARC) and the British Accreditation Council (BAC).

All students will need to purchase their own materials for their course. We encourage students to avail of any discounts by using their National Academy of Creative Arts student card, and to shop around for the best deals.

Yes, but there are certain requirements depending on the course you are looking to do.

All you need to begin is an interest in the subject. Our Certificate, Diploma and Postgraduate Diploma courses have no minimum educational requirement. No matter which course you choose our expert tutors will provide you with all the necessary support and guidance that you need to succeed.

BTEC Higher National Certificate, BTEC Higher National Diploma, and Degree courses
If English is not your first language, or if you have not completed your last two years of schooling through English, we recommend you pass an English language proficiency test to enrol on these courses. There are many options available and we have listed some below.

  • IELTS: 5.5 (reading and writing must be at 5.5)
  • TOEFL iBT: 70 (total score)
  • PTE Academic: Minimum score of 51
  • Cambridge CPE (pre-Jan 2015): Grade A, B, C, C1
  • Cambridge CAE (pre-Jan 2015): Grade A, B, C, Level B2
  • Cambridge CPE & CAE (post-Jan 2015): CEFR Level B2 or above Grade A, B, C, Level C1 or C2
  • Cambridge ESOL: Cambridge English Scale score 162 or above
  • TEEP (University of Reading): 5.5
  • OIBEC: Pass at Level B2 or above
  • Trinity College ISE: Pass or above on the following ISE qualifications: ISE II, ISE III, or ISE IV

If you do not meet the English language level requirements for the BTEC higher national courses, we do offer other course options. To discuss the option that best suits your needs, please contact us and our experienced team will help you choose the course which is right for you.

Our courses have been carefully designed to provide an up-to-date and practical educational experience to ensure that our students are primed to succeed upon graduation. Our comprehensive course materials have been developed in collaboration with leading industry experts.

Our BTEC Higher National Certificate and BTEC Higher National Diploma courses focus on the relevant skills required for employment within the profession or to gain advanced entry to a university degree.

Yes. Graduates of the National Academy of Creative Arts Postgraduate Diploma, BTEC Higher National Certificate, BTEC Higher National Diploma, and Degree courses are eligible for an optional work placement. All placements are made in the greater London, Manchester, Birmingham and Edinburgh areas. Please note that you need to be eligible to work in the united Kingdom to avail of this opportunity.

Once you register for your course you will be given access to the Online Learning Centre where you will find all your course resources. Home study students have access to these resources for three years from the date of enrolment. Classroom-based students have access to these resources for three years from the date of their first class.

If you are doing the BTEC Higher National Diploma course you will have access to the Online Learning Centre for four years from the date you enrolled (home study student), or from the date of your first class (classroom-based student).

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