Bachelor Graphic Media & Communication (Top-up year)

Course Description

Within the School of Art and Design at Somerset College we pursue the intelligent development of visual communication. Students learn the invisible language of form, composition, balance, structure, rhythm, and hierarchy coupled with the very visible language of communication.

The aim of the course is to help you develop the creative skills needed to achieve success in your future career. With this in mind, the course explores how ideas are communicated through language, images, and messages.

It equips you with the understanding and skills to operate effectively within the fast-moving and stimulating design sector.

By studying on this course, you will develop and establish:

• A broad range of skills across the disciplines of graphic media and communication with disciplines which include graphic design, screen-based design, moving image and sound, Illustration and photography.
• A professional understanding of the strength and usage of visual communication.
• A detailed understanding of industry-standard equipment and software.
• An understanding of how to evaluate a client’s needs and respond successfully to them.
• Experience of working as part of a professional team, gained through group projects and work placements, and through entering national and international design competitions.
• Your own visual signature, enabling you to generate and express your personal ideas and beliefs.

Teaching and Assessment

Teaching takes place within the School of Art and Design utilizing a range of purpose-built media and design studios. Assessment is based on 100% coursework and we undertake a continuous modular assessment. Studio-based assignments are augmented by lectures, seminars, and workshops throughout the year.

Career Progression

Graduates for any of the media programmes work across a broad range of disciplines, including web design, motion graphics, packaging, advertising, information design, character design, editorial design, photography, and illustration.

Thanks to their grounding in a broad range of disciplines, all of our Graphic Media courses are the ideal foundation for a successful career as a designer, and also provide a good basis from which to pursue postgraduate study.

Entry Requirements

Applicants for the BA programme are required to have a FdA or HND in Graphic Design or a related discipline. We also require students to possess GCSE English at a minimum of Grade C.

All students are asked to present a portfolio of work at the interview, which must demonstrate creative skills, subject knowledge, and enthusiasm for study. It should include research material and project work. We run Portfolio Workshops throughout the year to help prospective students prepare for interviews - visit our website to sign up.

Mature students who do not meet these formal entry requirements are welcome to apply if they can evidence their interest in the field of study.

Bridgwater & Taunton College is located in the heart of Somerset, with main centres in Bridgwater, Taunton and Cannington. The College has an excellent reputation both regionally and nationally as a highly successful provider of education and training.

We believe in the ability of each of our students to fulfill their potential and become the best they can be. We do this by offering a broad and diverse range of subject and qualifications to suit the needs and learning styles of all our students.

The courses combine real-world experience with academic rigour and fantastic employability. By studying with us, you’ll be given all the support you need to go in whichever direction you choose. Our tutors meet with students regularly to offer encouragement and guidance and, if needed, extra support.