Pearson BTEC HNC in Graphic Design

The general entry requirements below identify the minimum qualifications needed to apply for the programme. Other qualifications will be considered on an individual basis on application.  You are required to upload a copy of your qualification certificates to show how you meet the entry requirements for the programme prior to enrolment.  Applications will also require successful completion of the admissions process. 

GCSE/ Level 2 Requirements

• GCSE grade C/4 in English Language, or Level 2 Certificate in Essential Skills-Communication, or equivalent in an approved alternative qualification. 

AND

• GCSE grade C/4 in Mathematics, or equivalent in an approved alternative qualification

• GCSE grade C/4 in Mathematics, or Level 2 Certificate in Essential Skills-Application of Number, or equivalent in an approved alternative qualification

AND

• Passes in 4 different subjects (can include English Language and Mathematics and as above), with 1 at GCE Advanced (A) level (grades A-E), and 3 at GCSE level (grades A*-C*/9-4), or equivalent in an approved alternative qualification.

Course Entry Requirements

A minimum of 32 UCAS Tariff points including:

• GCE A level (A2): Typical grade profile C [to include Art and Design, or a visual arts related subject)

OR

• [RQF] Pearson BTEC Level 3 Foundation Diploma In Art Design and Media Practice with overall award profile P

OR

·      Level 3 Diploma in Graphic Design with overall award profile MP

OR

• An equivalent in an approved alternative qualification

Accreditation of Prior Learning 

Alternatively, you can provide evidence of your ability to undertake the programme by meeting the requirements for the Accreditation of Prior Learning (APL) process, either through Accredited Prior Certificated Learning (APCL) or Accredited Prior Experiential Learning (APEL).   Further details on APL can be found in the HE Admissions Process section of our website and the HE Accreditation of Prior Learning SOP.

International Students English Language Requirements

International applicants, from Non-Native English speaking countries, must have evidence of English Language Level B2 on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages:

• IELTS 6.0 (Academic) (minimum of 5.5 in all skills) 

• PTE Academic 51 (minimum of 46 in each part)

• Or equivalent UKVI-approved English Language Test

For further information please contact our International Department at international@serc.ac.uk

You will have both formative and summative assessments throughout the programme

These may include coursework, Project Based Learning, presentations, practical activities, role-play, products and case studies. 

This is dependent on the requirements of each unit of study. 

Oral, written and online feedback will be provided during your course to help improve and monitor performance.

The course will prepare you with a portfolio of work that demonstrates a range of practical, professional skills that can be used to seek employment opportunities in the creative industries or for further study at higher education level.

The specific vocational content of this course, along with access to a state-of-the-art software and equipment provide an invaluable pre-requisite to employment in all aspects of the creative digital art & design industry

The course aims to help students to develop industry connections through a strong programme of masterclasses, workshops and industry visits. The teaching team all work within the media industry in Northern Ireland and can offer advice and support to those seeking employment or further study in the field of creative media production.

The department recognises the importance of providing students with the opportunity to see professional environments, both locally and internationally. 

Costings for field trips are based on the confirmed total number of students wishing to partake and costs are kept to a minimum

A standard kit of art materials such as sketch books, paints, brushes, pencils, pens. Approx. £100

A digital SLR camera. Approx. £150 upwards

A portfolio case with sleeves A3 or above dependent on own practice. Approx. £40-£60

A memory cards for both video and audio files approx. £25.  Or

A portable hard drive (1TB/2TB) approx. £50 

Students are asked to budget approx.

A2  Creative Project