Start: September 2026
Duration: 2 Years
Code: ED3GRPF1LC

Course Overview

The Graphic Design and Digital Arts UAL Extended Diploma is designed for creative thinkers who enjoy solving problems through design. Whether you aspire to create bold brand identities, eye-catching campaigns, digital illustrations, or engaging visual content, this course will help you develop your own creative style while building the practical skills employers and universities are looking for.

Based within Weston College's specialist Creative Arts facilities, you'll work in dedicated studio spaces using industry-standard Adobe Creative Cloud software, including Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign. You'll also have access to an impressive range of specialist workshops, including printmaking studios, darkroom facilities, woodworking, ceramics, and mixed-media spaces, giving you the freedom to experiment with both traditional and digital techniques.

You'll be taught by experienced creative practitioners who will support you through every stage of the design process, from initial research and concept development to final presentation. Throughout the course, you'll work on exciting live briefs, complete industry work experience, and curate your own summer showcase, helping you build a professional portfolio that reflects your individual creative voice.

As a member of Weston College's Creative Career Excellence Hub, you'll benefit from guest speakers, employer projects, networking opportunities, exhibitions, competitions, and weekly personal development sessions designed to prepare you for a successful future within the creative industries.

What will I study?

You'll develop both creative and technical skills while exploring a wide range of design disciplines and professional working practices.

Topics include:

• Visual communication • Branding and identity design • Typography • Digital illustration • Advertising and marketing design • Screen printing • Moving image • Mixed media • Editorial design • Contextual studies • Copyright law and professional practice • Creative research and idea development

Throughout the course, you'll create an extensive professional portfolio that demonstrates your creativity, technical ability, and design thinking to universities and future employers.

How will I be assessed?

Assessment is entirely coursework based, allowing you to build your portfolio throughout the programme.

Assessment includes:

• Individual creative projects • Live client briefs • Design portfolios • Presentations • Written evaluations and research • Practical creative work • Final major project

There are no formal examinations, allowing you to demonstrate your skills through practical projects and professional creative outcomes.

Additional Information

Throughout your course, you will benefit from:

• Membership of Weston College's Creative Career Excellence Hub • Dedicated graphic design studios • Access to Adobe Creative Cloud on campus and at home throughout your course • Specialist printmaking, ceramics, darkroom, and workshop facilities • Industry work experience • Live client briefs • Guest lectures from professional designers • Visits to galleries, exhibitions, and creative events • Your own professionally curated summer showcase • Career planning, portfolio development, and university application support

There may be minimal costs for certain materials, although all specialist workshop equipment is provided.

Entry Requirements

• Five GCSEs at grades 9–4, including English and maths

• A creative-related subject is preferred

You will also need:

• A genuine interest in graphic design and visual communication • Examples of your creative work to discuss at interview

What can I do after this course?

Successful completion of this course can lead to higher education, apprenticeships, or employment across the creative industries.

You could progress to university to study:

• Graphic Design • Illustration • Visual Communication • Advertising • Digital Design • Motion Graphics • Fine Art • Creative Media

Career opportunities include:

• Graphic Designer • Brand Designer • Digital Designer • Illustrator • Motion Graphics Designer • Advertising Creative • Marketing Designer • Social Media Designer • Editorial Designer • Web Designer • Packaging Designer • Creative Artworker

The professional portfolio you develop throughout the course will play a key role in supporting applications to university and creative industry roles.

What do I do now?

Ready to apply? – Please use the ‘apply now’ button on this page. From here you'll be taken through to our application portal.

Want to learn more? – Visit and see the facilities and chat to staff by signing up for our next open event.

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