Design and Photography (OCR National Extended Diploma)

Specific Entry Criteria

Grade C in English Language plus a GCSE grade C in art or design or a BTEC first diploma in art and design merit, if taken, or a suitable portfolio of work (see a member of staff for details).

About the Subject

The National Diploma in Design is an ideal course for the creatively minded who enjoy problem solving at both a conceptual and practical level and are considering a career in one of the many sectors of the design industry. It is equivalent to three A levels.

The aim of the course is to provide students with a broad portfolio of skills in a variety of different fields ranging from product and 3D design to photography and creative imaging techniques. There will also be an opportunity for students to develop their skills and understanding of the industry further through work experience in a related field of design.

This qualification is ideal for those students who have studied design, art, photography, media or engineering at GCSE level or for those who have gained a BTEC first in art and design. The course provides those who wish to work in product design, interior design, industrial design, photography, advertising, creative imaging and graphic design with excellent progression opportunities for direct entry into higher education.

Course Content

Over the two years you will study this course you will complete 4 core units and 14 specialist units that relate to a variety of different disciplines within design and photography.

The core units will provide students with skills and knowledge that will develop their understanding of the design process. They will explore the work of professional designers to influence their own ideas. A range of drawing techniques, materials and presentation styles will be explored enabling students to create a varied portfolio of work in preparation for their chosen career path. In addition to the core units students will also study specialist units that will develop their skills in a range of areas, which include:

• 3D Design: students will explore the use of a range of materials and techniques and how these might be used to develop commercial products through practical realisation.
• Graphic Design: students will explore a range of techniques (including hand and computer generated designs, using programmes such as Photoshop and ProDeskTop) used in the production of advertisements and specialist drawings.
• Photography: students will explore the use of digital imaging techniques alongside both studio and location photography that will enable them to develop work in a range of genre.

Assessment

The course is assessed entirely by coursework which is graded at pass, merit or distinction. Your tutor will negotiate a deadline with you when the work is due to be handed in. A variety of teaching methods and learning styles are used such as group work, practical simulations, independent research, presentations, case studies, external speakers and field trips. Work is enhanced by the department’s specialist ICT facilities and access to the workshop.