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Whether you’re a college leaver full of ideas or a professional looking to sharpen your skills, the HNC in Graphic Design at Shrewsbury College is your launchpad into the creative industries.
This practical, industry-led course combines digital innovation with traditional design principles, equipping you with the skills and confidence to succeed in one of the UK’s most fast-paced and evolving sectors. You’ll respond to live briefs, collaborate with real clients, and build a professional portfolio in our fully-equipped design studios using the latest software and tech.
Covering everything from branding and typography to UX/UI, editorial design and motion graphics, this course doesn’t just teach you how to design – it develops your ability to think critically, solve creative problems, and communicate ideas effectively.
Whether you’re looking to work in an agency, go freelance, set up your own studio, or progress to university, this qualification gives you the creative, technical and professional edge to move forward with confidence.
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Who is it for?
This course is ideal for creative individuals who want to turn their passion for graphic design into a professional career. Whether you're progressing from A-Levels, BTEC Level 3, or returning to education to retrain, the HNC at Shrewsbury College provides the knowledge, skills, and portfolio you need to stand out in the industry.
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Entry Requirements
Applicants will typically need:
- A Level 3 qualification in Art & Design or a related subject (such as a BTEC Diploma)
- A portfolio of creative work
- GCSE English and Maths at grade C/4 or above (or equivalent)
Mature applicants without formal qualifications but with relevant experience are also encouraged to apply. Entry is subject to a successful interview and portfolio review. -
What does the course involve?
Units: A1 (Concept & Development), A2 (Creative Project)
Focus: Build core design knowledge, skills, and industry awareness through research, experimentation, and creative development.
Key Areas:
- Contextual Understanding – Design history, cultural and social influences, key movements (e.g. Bauhaus, Postmodernism).
- Idea Development – Brief analysis, research methods, brainstorming, testing, reflection.
- Technical Skills – Typography, layout, image editing, motion graphics, UI/UX, print and packaging.
- Professional Practice – Industry roles, ethics, health & safety, collaboration.
- Communication – Presenting ideas, pitching, using appropriate formats for different audiences.
Units: B1 (Personal Professional Development), B2 (Professional Project)
Focus: Apply creative, technical, and professional skills to produce industry-ready work and plan for future careers.
Key Areas:
- Advanced Contextual Thinking – Contemporary practice, design economies, global influences.
- Professional Projects – Developing and managing complex briefs, working with clients/stakeholders.
- Refined Technical Output – Specialisms in digital/print, 3D, motion, UI/UX, VR/AR.
- Career Preparation – Portfolios, interviews, business planning, networking, pricing, freelance vs employment.
- Communication for Industry – Pitches, proposals, feedback, marketing, building a personal brand.
You will complete the Level 4 HNC in the first year (120 credits), and have the option to progress to the Level 5 HND in the second year (a further 120 credits). -
How is the course assessed?
All assessment on the BTEC Higher Nationals in Graphic Design at Shrewsbury College is internally set and marked coursework. There are no exams.
- Creative project work (response to briefs)
- Research and idea development
- Reflective writing and evaluations
- Presentations and pitches
- Portfolio and professional documentation
There are no exams. Assignments are designed to reflect real-world industry challenges and are assessed internally by your tutors at Shrewsbury College. -
Additional Notes
- You will have access to Adobe Creative Cloud and other industry-standard software.
- Support is available from experienced tutors and dedicated technicians.
- You’ll be encouraged to build a professional online portfolio and take part in exhibitions, networking, and employer engagement.
- Optional enrichment activities and visits to design agencies, galleries, and creative events are part of the course.
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Other Details
- Duration: 1 year full-time for HNC, 2 years full-time for HND
- Location: Shrewsbury College, London Road Campus
- Start Date: September
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What do I do next?
Not 100% sure if this course is the right fit for you? That’s totally okay – we’re here to help.
Come along to one of our Open Events to meet the tutors, tour the studios, and get a real feel for what life as a design student at Shrewsbury College is like. You can ask questions, get advice on your portfolio, and even chat to current students about their experience.
Or simply drop us a message – whether you're curious, excited, or just exploring your options, we'd love to hear from you.
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📞 01743 342333
🌐 www.scg.ac.uk