UAL Level 3 Diploma in Graphic Design and Illustration - Year 1 of 2

Applications Open - Monday 2nd November 2026

Applications Close - Open all year

How to Apply – Please apply through KentChoices and use your KentChoices login which your school should provide

PLEASE NOTE - Popular courses can fill up quickly so apply early to avoid disappointment

If you have any queries regarding the courses, please contact EKC Canterbury College

You can make up to 5 applications to Colleges within the EKC Group, that is:

• EKC Ashford College
• EKC Broadstairs College*
• EKC Canterbury College*
• EKC Dover College
• EKC Folkestone College*
• EKC Sheppey College

*Junior Colleges exist in these locations.

Please only add one course or T Level per application, except for A Levels at EKC Canterbury College, where up to 4 A Level courses can be added per application. At your interview, you and the tutors can discuss the best level and courses in order for you to progress.

Delve into the world of Graphic Design and Illustration and start shaping the visual stories that influence how we see and understand the world. Explore how creativity and communication come together, using both traditional and digital techniques to bring your ideas to life. Creative industries are growing fast, with designers and illustrators in demand across digital media, advertising, publishing and beyond. If you enjoy thinking creatively and solving problems, and want to develop your own artistic style, this two-year course will help you build the confidence and skills to begin your journey in a dynamic and creative field.

This course gives you the chance to explore how ideas become powerful visuals, from branding and digital illustration to print, layout and visual identity. You’ll experiment with a wide range of 2D and 3D techniques and processes, building confidence in how you communicate ideas through images, design and storytelling. You will develop skills in: • Digital Illustration • Graphic techniques • Print and layout • The creative cycle • Project management • Visual identity You will gain unique industry insight, mentorship and professional exposure. With creativity, confidence building, adaptability and storytelling at its core, the course prepares students for higher education, apprenticeships, or direct entry into the fast-evolving creative industries.

You will learn through practical lessons in our modern digital studios and be assessed through multiple projects that will build your creative skills. Your final project each year will be the main basis of your grade, giving you the chance to showcase the skills you’ve developed. Throughout the year you will also complete regular assessments, providing you with detailed feedback to help you improve your skills and knowledge.

To study at Level 3, you will need an average entry score of 5.0 from your best 6 GCSE subjects, ideally including English and Maths. You will also be required to show a portfolio of work when you apply. In instances where little or no portfolio and/or performance experience is shown, we will guide you towards the best course to help you build your portfolio and develop the skills and knowledge you need to succeed at higher levels. This study programme is designed to help you move quickly toward advanced jobs, higher education, or apprenticeship opportunities if you know what you want to do next and meet the entry requirements needed for success. Achieving a Level 3 qualification will improve your future earning potential and career choices. It also allows you to progress to Higher Education, Higher Apprenticeships, and Degree Apprenticeships. These can lead to roles like Advanced Technician or Skilled Supervisor at Level 3, and eventually to management or professional status as you continue your studies.

By the end of your course, you'll be well-prepared to venture into the world of graphic design and illustration. This course opens the door to a range of creative careers, including: • Graphic design • Illustration • Branding and visual identity • Advertising and marketing • Publishing • Digital media Progress to higher education at a range of universities and prestigious art schools across the country. Previous students have undertaken courses in areas such as illustration, advertising, fashion marketing, games design and more. You could also go onto a specialised apprenticeship or start your professional career in the art industry in a diverse range of creative careers. -------------------------------------------- Level 3 learner, Frankie, is now thriving at Central Saint Martins (University of the Arts London), studying Graphic Design and Communication. She commented on her time at EKC Canterbury College: “My favourite part of studying here has been the creative freedom. Every project has been very different and I’ve been able to tailor it to my own style and what I’m interested in."