BA (Hons) Level 6 Degree (Top-Up) Home Study
Work Placement
Graduates of this course are eligible for a one month work placement with a graphic design company. All placements are organised through the British Academy of Graphic Design, within the greater London, Manchester, Birmingham and Edinburgh areas.
Read More- Study Option
- Home Study
- Course Level
- Level 6 on the FHEQ
- Entry Requirements
- 18 years old or over
A recognised BTEC level 5 qualification (or equivalent) in Graphic Design,
If English is not your first language, you must have at least level 5.5 IELTS or the equivalent. - Assessment
- 16 online practical assignments
- Enrolment Process:
Enrol today to secure your place on this intake. All BA Top-up candidates must submit evidence of eligibility through the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) process.
Learn more here.- Awarding Body
The Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Graphic Design is awarded by the University of Hertfordshire.
You will be enrolled on a Level 6 top up programme delivered through the British Academy of Graphic Design. This programme is validated, quality assured and awarded through the University of Hertfordshire. The BA (hons) Level 6 top-up in Graphic Design represents 1200 total learning hours and 120 credits at level 6 (undergraduate degree-level) study.
In this programme, you will develop a specialised knowledge of Graphic Design. You will work closely with a team of subject specialist tutors who will help you to develop advanced academic abilities and a sophisticated professional practice. Throughout your studies, your tutors will provide support, guidance and feedback, allowing you to progress in your studies, build an independent practice or pursue a career in the industry. Designed around 16 assignments that are delivered through 4 distinct topic modules, this degree programme will provide an academic structure to your studies. It will help you to establish your own reputation and distinctive approach to graphic design.
As a Home Study student, you will have full access to our Online Learning Centre. This is your virtual campus and contains all your course content, learning resources, access to online learning services, tutor support and assessment materials. You will also have access to our popular student forum where tutors and students engage in discussion about course assignments, and share work and feedback.
The programme is aligned with statutory body requirements, such as the QAA Quality Code, QAA Subject Benchmarks, the Framework for Higher Education Qualifications (FHEQ), and Advance HE principles, ensuring an academically rigorous and professionally relevant learning experience. It also adheres to the Herts Learning Approach, (University of Hertfordshire) which emphasises active learning, inclusivity, and a supportive learning community.
Topics
The BA (Hons) Top-up programme includes 4 compulsory modules of study.
Each module has a completion timeframe of six months.
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- Module 1 - Advanced Practice in Graphic Design
This module prepares students for the professional world by deepening their understanding of the graphic designer’s role, from navigating complex client briefs to creating impactful, ethical designs. Students will explore concept development and research methods tailored to client and user needs, all while meeting industry standards. With a focus on presentation and communication skills, this module supports students to refine their creative process, ensuring their work is not only innovative, but also professionally and ethically sound.
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- Module 2 - Dissertation
In this module, students will be supported to develop topics and research questions, understand research design, and explore research methods suited to visual studies, including content analysis, discourse analysis, and semiotics. The differences between qualitative and quantitative research and primary and secondary research techniques are examined, with insights into how each can be applied effectively within the context of graphic design inquiry. Academic writing, referencing styles, analysis of research findings and academic conventions are covered. Students will also gain skills in independent research practice.
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- Module 3 - Major Project Ideation and Development
This module guides students through the exciting early stages of developing their major graphic design project. Students explore research methods, target audience analysis, and creative techniques to generate innovative concepts. With support from tutors, students will refine their ideas into prototypes and begin building a professional portfolio that reflects their unique design style and career aspirations. By the end of the module, students should have a strong foundation to confidently progress towards implementing their project and achieving industry-ready outcomes.
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- Module 4 - Major Project Implementation
In the Major Project Implementation module, students will bring their creative vision to life by refining and executing a major graphic design project. They will explore advanced production techniques, iterative design processes, and professional project management strategies while considering ethical and industry standards. Through collaboration with peers and professionals, students will be supported to create and present high-quality design solutions tailored to specific audiences. This module culminates in a final portfolio and presentation, showcasing their technical skills, critical thinking, and professional development.
Tutors
Our tutor community includes hundreds of talented professionals with both local and international credentials. Here is a sample to illustrate the depth of creative experience that Academy students benefit from:
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James
PriceCourse Tutor
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Yamira
CastellanoCourse Tutor
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Lauren
KeeganCourse Tutor
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Hugo
JucáCourse Tutor
The British Academy of Graphic Design
Our philosophy at the British Academy of Graphic Design is to make high-quality education accessible to all by empowering people to do what they love. Through the power of online and blended learning, our students are able to harness their creativity and practically apply it to succeed in their chosen careers.
Pursue your ambition - because the future is today!
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