Graphic Design

Entry requirements would usually be one of the following:

• 48 UCAS Tariff Points – Level 3 qualifications, these may include: A Level or BTEC National Diploma (PPP) or a Foundation Diploma, in a relevant subject area · Access to HE Diploma in an art related programme with at least 45 credits at Level 3 Recognition of Prior Certificated Learning (RPCL) Recognition of Prior Experience (RPEL)

We welcome applications from people of any age who might not meet the standard entry criteria, but we would expect to see evidence of continuing academic and/or professional development and a capacity to pursue the course successfully. As part of the application process, a digital portfolio of art and design-related work must be presented to evidence creative ability and suitability for the course. If you have been out of formal education for some time, and/or you do not have the qualifications stated, we might still be able to consider your application and offer you a range of support.

Portfolio Requirements
1. We accept both physical and digital PDF portfolios, and portfolio websites. However, we are seeing fewer students present their work in physical portfolios, as digital versions can be more easily updated, and with the integration of more contemporary technology they can also include examples of website design, motion graphics, animation, and video work.

2. Once we have received your application, we will ask to see evidence of art and design work (ideally submitted as an A3 landscape PDF portfolio). This allows us to review and discuss your work before a formal interview. We will have your work on a screen, but if you wish, you can also show a physical portfolio to discuss your work further.

3. When considering which projects to show at your interview, we recommend selecting between 5-10 well-presented creative projects, and evidence of 2-3 essays/reports (to assess your written communication skills).

4. Include your strongest project at the start of your portfolio, with another in the middle, and one at the end.

5. Your creative projects should provide evidence of your methodical ongoing process – from research to the development of ideas and concepts, and realisation of completed outcomes. We are looking for inventiveness and depth of thought.

6. We will need to see evidence of initial sketches and digital development. This should be supported by ongoing evaluative notes that explain your decision-making process.

7. We will assess how your work has applied colour, type and layout, illustration, and/or photography.

8. Ensure that each project is clearly labelled with a heading and include a short description (around 100 words) that explains project requirements, as well as an overview of your resulting creative strategy.

9. We want to gain a good idea of your computer software skills, although this is covered as part of the first year, to ensure all students have the necessary skills to complete their work.

If you have any questions about our portfolio requirements or the interview process, please feel free to contact the Programme Leader at simon.gomes@don.ac.uk

Entry requirements would usually be one of the following:

• 48 UCAS Tariff Points – Level 3 qualifications, these may include: A Level or BTEC National Diploma (PPP) or a Foundation Diploma, in a relevant subject area · Access to HE Diploma in an art related programme with at least 45 credits at Level 3 Recognition of Prior Certificated Learning (RPCL) Recognition of Prior Experience (RPEL)

We welcome applications from people of any age who might not meet the standard entry criteria, but we would expect to see evidence of continuing academic and/or professional development and a capacity to pursue the course successfully. As part of the application process, a digital portfolio of art and design-related work must be presented to evidence creative ability and suitability for the course. If you have been out of formal education for some time, and/or you do not have the qualifications stated, we might still be able to consider your application and offer you a range of support.

Portfolio Requirements
1. We accept both physical and digital PDF portfolios, and portfolio websites. However, we are seeing fewer students present their work in physical portfolios, as digital versions can be more easily updated, and with the integration of more contemporary technology they can also include examples of website design, motion graphics, animation, and video work.

2. Once we have received your application, we will ask to see evidence of art and design work (ideally submitted as an A3 landscape PDF portfolio). This allows us to review and discuss your work before a formal interview. We will have your work on a screen, but if you wish, you can also show a physical portfolio to discuss your work further.
3. When considering which projects to show at your interview, we recommend selecting between 5-10 well-presented creative projects, and evidence of 2-3 essays/reports (to assess your written communication skills).
4. Include your strongest project at the start of your portfolio, with another in the middle, and one at the end.
5. Your creative projects should provide evidence of your methodical ongoing process – from research to the development of ideas and concepts, and realisation of completed outcomes. We are looking for inventiveness and depth of thought.
6. We will need to see evidence of initial sketches and digital development. This should be supported by ongoing evaluative notes that explain your decision-making process.
7. We will assess how your work has applied colour, type and layout, illustration, and/or photography.
8. Ensure that each project is clearly labelled with a heading and include a short description (around 100 words) that explains project requirements, as well as an overview of your resulting creative strategy.
9. We want to gain a good idea of your computer software skills, although this is covered as part of the first year, to ensure all students have the necessary skills to complete their work.

If you have any questions about our portfolio requirements or the interview process, please feel free to contact the Programme Leader at simon.gomes@don.ac.uk