Graphic Design is everywhere; from books, magazines and newspapers to packaging design and digital media.
In this developing course, you will further explore the key movements and styles within Graphic Design and explore in more depth layout, typography, colour, shape and pattern and how they can be used to communicate effectively.
Learning modes and locations may be different depending on the course start date. Please check the location of your chosen course and read our guide to learning modes and locations to help you choose the right course for you.
Please note: We offer a wide variety of financial support to make courses affordable. Just visit our online Help Centre for more information on a range of topics including fees, online learning and FAQs.
This course is an intermediate course, for more experienced learners to develop their practical and conceptual skills integral to the discipline of Graphic Design. You will also delve deeper into its context - historical and contemporary - and begin to identify which movements or styles you feel have greatest relevance to your own developing creative practice.
The course will be taught in our dedicated Visual Communication studio which is equipped with macs and scanners, a range of Adobe software, drawing tablets, printers and a vast range of drawing and painting materials.
What will we cover?
Intermediate level teaching of: • The key elements of graphic design: layout (grids and hierarchy), typography, colour, shape, pattern. • How to create designs which communicate specific information. • Researching, developing and realising graphic designs in response to a brief. • The different applications of Graphic Design, from print media to digital. • The key movements and styles within the subject area. • Identifying which of the sub-areas and movements are most relevant to your developing graphic design practice. • Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop and InDesign
What will I achieve? By the end of this course you should be able to...
• Manipulate layout, typography, colour, shape, pattern, to communicate more complex information. • Research, develop and realise more complex graphic designs in response to a brief. • Discuss the different applications of graphic design and the key movements and styles, and how to situate your developing personal practice within them.
What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?
This course is suitable for intermediate learners, e.g. those who have completed an introductory course in Graphic Design, or have equivalent knowledge and experience.
English-language competency is required: you should be able to follow verbal and written instructions, demonstrations, hand-outs and health and safety information. You may need to take short written notes for your own use and take part in group discussions.
How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?
Presentations
Demonstrations
Practical work
Individual and group tutoring
Group discussion
Additional/extension activities may be set for you to complete at home or outside of the course hours. Completion of additional tasks is encouraged to help you get the most out of the course. Where required your tutor will discuss these with you.
Self-reflection is an important part of learning in art education and creative practice. You will be encouraged to engage with reflecting on your own work and progress as part of the learning process in Visual Arts.
Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?
At City Lit, access to basic materials and resources are available as part of this course. We advise you to bring a A5/A4 sketchbook for the recording of ideas and an A3 folder and/or a USB drive, to transport work to and from City Lit. Additional materials required as part of the course will be discussed by your tutor if required.
When I've finished, what course can I do next?
We recommend looking at the Visual Communication category of our website, to see our full range of courses and specialist workshops within graphic design, illustration, children’s book illustration and graphic novels.
Also, you may wish to consider applying to one of our Advanced Programmes in Media and Communications, or a related subject. https://www.citylit.ac.uk/courses/art-and-design/advanced-practice
John is a seasoned graphic designer and educator, bringing over twenty years of experience in art direction, graphic design, and illustration to his teaching practice. With expertise in delivering impactful design solutions, John's career spans a wide array of disciplines, including exhibition design, information systems, brand identity, packaging, and promotional materials. His client list is as diverse as his portfolio, with notable projects including work for the Birmingham Botanical Gardens, Tower Bridge London, the London Fire Brigade Museum, and the National Library of Scotland. John's meticulous approach to design ensures that every project, from concept to execution, is delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest creative standard. His exhibition work transforms spaces into immersive storytelling experiences that engage, inform, and inspire, leaving a lasting impression on visitors. As a freelance designer and former senior exhibition graphic designer, John has contributed to award-nominated projects and gained recognition from clients and visitors alike. He holds a passion for design and storytelling, matched with his dedication to teaching.
Pam WilliamsSee moreSee less
Pam Williams is a designer and an educator with a wealth of industry experience. Working with leading architects, including Foster and Partners to create exhibition and signage design. Whilst at The Museum of London she produced graphic illustrations for inhouse Archaeology publications. She is responsible for the visual identity and promotional material for Peckham based Ganapati Restaurant. Pam has been lead as well as contributed to teaching Visual Communications at the University of the Arts on the Foundation course and for Central Saint Martin Summer School Programme. She is a graduate of Central Saint Martins and The Royal College of Art.
Andrew McCartenSee moreSee less
Andy McCarten is a graphic design consultant and lecturer with over thirty years of commercial and academic experience in creating and leading national and international design projects for clients in TV, retail, manufacturing, finance and banking, across Europe and beyond. Andrew has worked with commercial clients including KLM, London Underground, Narvesen, TV2 Norway, BBC, BAA Heathrow, American Express. Having overseen the production of many print and electronic communications, in the commercial arena and within education, including a previous post at Ravensbourne University College for the art and design foundation course. The foundation course has creative idea generating and making at the core of the education process. He is currently developing courses with CityLit for the Advanced Visual Communications area. 'My motivation is to ensure my students get to fully realise their abilities and talents, to succeed in life.' Andrew is a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy, and member of the Typographic Circle. www.amdesigndesk.com www.linkedin.com/in/andrewmccarten
Please note: We reserve the right to change our tutors from those advertised. This happens rarely, but if it does, we are unable to refund fees due to this. Our tutors may have different teaching styles; however we guarantee a consistent quality of teaching in all our courses.
product
https://www.citylit.ac.uk/developing-graphic-design304766Developing graphic designhttps://www.citylit.ac.uk/media/catalog/product/d/e/dev_graphicdesign03.jpg399399GBPInStock/Courses/Courses/Art & design/Courses/Art & design/Graphic design & illustration/Courses/Art & design/Graphic design & illustration/Graphic design22851132116311751228511321163<p>Graphic Design is everywhere; from books, magazines and newspapers to packaging design and digital media.</p><p>In this developing course, you will further explore the key movements and styles within Graphic Design and explore in more depth layout, typography, colour, shape and pattern and how they can be used to communicate effectively.</p>23.5https://www.citylit.ac.uk/media/catalog/product/d/e/dev_graphicdesign02.jpghttps://www.citylit.ac.uk/media/catalog/product/d/e/dev_graphicdesign01.jpghttps://www.citylit.ac.uk/media/catalog/product/2/0/20231004_204338_3.jpg3030274Developing graphic design399399https://www.citylit.ac.uk/media/catalog/product/d/e/dev_graphicdesign03_11.jpgInStockEveningThuKeeley StreetAvailable courses5-10 weeksWeekday2026-09-10T00:00:00+00:00Some experienceSep 2026Art & designVZ124399399Developing graphic design319259399John Smyth, Pam Williamsdeveloping-graphic-design/vz124-2627<p>Graphic Design is everywhere; from books, magazines and newspapers to packaging design and digital media.</p><p>In this developing course, you will further explore the key movements and styles within Graphic Design and explore in more depth layout, typography, colour, shape and pattern and how they can be used to communicate effectively.</p>0000-Available|2026-09-10 00:00:00<p>This course is an intermediate course, for more experienced learners to develop their practical and conceptual skills integral to the discipline of Graphic Design. You will also delve deeper into its context - historical and contemporary - and begin to identify which movements or styles you feel have greatest relevance to your own developing creative practice. </p><p>The course will be taught in our dedicated Visual Communication studio which is equipped with macs and scanners, a range of Adobe software, drawing tablets, printers and a vast range of drawing and painting materials.<br> </p><p>Graphic Design is everywhere; from books, magazines and newspapers to packaging design and digital media.</p><p>In this developing course, you will further explore the key movements and styles within Graphic Design and explore in more depth layout, typography, colour, shape and pattern and how they can be used to communicate effectively.</p><p>Intermediate level teaching of:<br>• The key elements of graphic design: layout (grids and hierarchy), typography, colour, shape, pattern. <br>• How to create designs which communicate specific information. <br>• Researching, developing and realising graphic designs in response to a brief. <br>• The different applications of Graphic Design, from print media to digital. <br>• The key movements and styles within the subject area. <br>• Identifying which of the sub-areas and movements are most relevant to your developing graphic design practice. <br>• Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop and InDesign</p><p>• Manipulate layout, typography, colour, shape, pattern, to communicate more complex information. <br>• Research, develop and realise more complex graphic designs in response to a brief. <br>• Discuss the different applications of graphic design and the key movements and styles, and how to situate your developing personal practice within them.</p><p>This course is suitable for intermediate learners, e.g. those who have completed an introductory course in Graphic Design, or have equivalent knowledge and experience. </p><p><em>English-language competency is required: you should be able to follow verbal and written instructions, demonstrations, hand-outs and health and safety information. You may need to take short written notes for your own use and take part in group discussions.</em><br> </p><ul><li>Presentations</li><li>Demonstrations</li><li>Practical work</li><li>Individual and group tutoring</li><li>Group discussion</li></ul><p>Additional/extension activities may be set for you to complete at home or outside of the course hours. Completion of additional tasks is encouraged to help you get the most out of the course. Where required your tutor will discuss these with you.</p><p><em>Self-reflection is an important part of learning in art education and creative practice. You will be encouraged to engage with reflecting on your own work and progress as part of the learning process in Visual Arts.</em></p><p>At City Lit, access to basic materials and resources are available as part of this course. We advise you to bring a A5/A4 sketchbook for the recording of ideas and an A3 folder and/or a USB drive, to transport work to and from City Lit. Additional materials required as part of the course will be discussed by your tutor if required. <br> </p><p>We recommend looking at the Visual Communication category of our website, to see our full range of courses and specialist workshops within graphic design, illustration, children’s book illustration and graphic novels. </p><p>Also, you may wish to consider applying to one of our Advanced Programmes in Media and Communications, or a related subject. https://www.citylit.ac.uk/courses/art-and-design/advanced-practice<br> </p>Graphic design & illustrationGraphic designvirtual3068116Developing graphic design399399https://www.citylit.ac.uk/media/catalog/product/d/e/dev_graphicdesign03_12.jpgInStockDaytimeWedKeeley StreetAvailable courses5-10 weeksWeekday2027-01-06T00:00:00+00:00Some experienceJan 2027Art & designVZ121399399Developing graphic design319259399Andrew McCarten, Pam Williamsdeveloping-graphic-design/vz121-2627<p>Graphic Design is everywhere; from books, magazines and newspapers to packaging design and digital media.</p><p>In this developing course, you will further explore the key movements and styles within Graphic Design and explore in more depth layout, typography, colour, shape and pattern and how they can be used to communicate effectively.</p>0000-Available|2027-01-06 00:00:00<p>This course is an intermediate course, for more experienced learners to develop their practical and conceptual skills integral to the discipline of Graphic Design. You will also delve deeper into its context - historical and contemporary - and begin to identify which movements or styles you feel have greatest relevance to your own developing creative practice. </p><p>The course will be taught in our dedicated Visual Communication studio which is equipped with macs and scanners, a range of Adobe software, drawing tablets, printers and a vast range of drawing and painting materials.<br> </p><p>Graphic Design is everywhere; from books, magazines and newspapers to packaging design and digital media.</p><p>In this developing course, you will further explore the key movements and styles within Graphic Design and explore in more depth layout, typography, colour, shape and pattern and how they can be used to communicate effectively.</p><p>Intermediate level teaching of:<br>• The key elements of graphic design: layout (grids and hierarchy), typography, colour, shape, pattern. <br>• How to create designs which communicate specific information. <br>• Researching, developing and realising graphic designs in response to a brief. <br>• The different applications of Graphic Design, from print media to digital. <br>• The key movements and styles within the subject area. <br>• Identifying which of the sub-areas and movements are most relevant to your developing graphic design practice. <br>• Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop and InDesign</p><p>• Manipulate layout, typography, colour, shape, pattern, to communicate more complex information. <br>• Research, develop and realise more complex graphic designs in response to a brief. <br>• Discuss the different applications of graphic design and the key movements and styles, and how to situate your developing personal practice within them.</p><p>This course is suitable for intermediate learners, e.g. those who have completed an introductory course in Graphic Design, or have equivalent knowledge and experience. </p><p><em>English-language competency is required: you should be able to follow verbal and written instructions, demonstrations, hand-outs and health and safety information. You may need to take short written notes for your own use and take part in group discussions.</em><br> </p><ul><li>Presentations</li><li>Demonstrations</li><li>Practical work</li><li>Individual and group tutoring</li><li>Group discussion</li></ul><p>Additional/extension activities may be set for you to complete at home or outside of the course hours. Completion of additional tasks is encouraged to help you get the most out of the course. Where required your tutor will discuss these with you.</p><p><em>Self-reflection is an important part of learning in art education and creative practice. You will be encouraged to engage with reflecting on your own work and progress as part of the learning process in Visual Arts.</em></p><p>At City Lit, access to basic materials and resources are available as part of this course. We advise you to bring a A5/A4 sketchbook for the recording of ideas and an A3 folder and/or a USB drive, to transport work to and from City Lit. Additional materials required as part of the course will be discussed by your tutor if required. <br> </p><p>We recommend looking at the Visual Communication category of our website, to see our full range of courses and specialist workshops within graphic design, illustration, children’s book illustration and graphic novels. </p><p>Also, you may wish to consider applying to one of our Advanced Programmes in Media and Communications, or a related subject. https://www.citylit.ac.uk/courses/art-and-design/advanced-practice<br> </p>Graphic design & illustrationGraphic designvirtual3068122Developing graphic design399399https://www.citylit.ac.uk/media/catalog/product/d/e/dev_graphicdesign03_13.jpgInStockEveningWedKeeley StreetAvailable courses5-10 weeksWeekday2027-02-03T00:00:00+00:00Feb 2027Art & designVZ125399399Developing graphic design319259399Andrew McCarten, Pam Williamsdeveloping-graphic-design/vz125-2627<p>Graphic Design is everywhere; from books, magazines and newspapers to packaging design and digital media.</p><p>In this developing course, you will further explore the key movements and styles within Graphic Design and explore in more depth layout, typography, colour, shape and pattern and how they can be used to communicate effectively.</p>0000-Available|2027-02-03 00:00:00<p>This course is an intermediate course, for more experienced learners to develop their practical and conceptual skills integral to the discipline of Graphic Design. You will also delve deeper into its context - historical and contemporary - and begin to identify which movements or styles you feel have greatest relevance to your own developing creative practice. </p><p>The course will be taught in our dedicated Visual Communication studio which is equipped with macs and scanners, a range of Adobe software, drawing tablets, printers and a vast range of drawing and painting materials.<br> </p><p>Graphic Design is everywhere; from books, magazines and newspapers to packaging design and digital media.</p><p>In this developing course, you will further explore the key movements and styles within Graphic Design and explore in more depth layout, typography, colour, shape and pattern and how they can be used to communicate effectively.</p><p>Intermediate level teaching of:<br>• The key elements of graphic design: layout (grids and hierarchy), typography, colour, shape, pattern. <br>• How to create designs which communicate specific information. <br>• Researching, developing and realising graphic designs in response to a brief. <br>• The different applications of Graphic Design, from print media to digital. <br>• The key movements and styles within the subject area. <br>• Identifying which of the sub-areas and movements are most relevant to your developing graphic design practice. <br>• Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop and InDesign</p><p>• Manipulate layout, typography, colour, shape, pattern, to communicate more complex information. <br>• Research, develop and realise more complex graphic designs in response to a brief. <br>• Discuss the different applications of graphic design and the key movements and styles, and how to situate your developing personal practice within them.</p><p>This course is suitable for intermediate learners, e.g. those who have completed an introductory course in Graphic Design, or have equivalent knowledge and experience. </p><p><em>English-language competency is required: you should be able to follow verbal and written instructions, demonstrations, hand-outs and health and safety information. You may need to take short written notes for your own use and take part in group discussions.</em><br> </p><ul><li>Presentations</li><li>Demonstrations</li><li>Practical work</li><li>Individual and group tutoring</li><li>Group discussion</li></ul><p>Additional/extension activities may be set for you to complete at home or outside of the course hours. Completion of additional tasks is encouraged to help you get the most out of the course. Where required your tutor will discuss these with you.</p><p><em>Self-reflection is an important part of learning in art education and creative practice. You will be encouraged to engage with reflecting on your own work and progress as part of the learning process in Visual Arts.</em></p><p>At City Lit, access to basic materials and resources are available as part of this course. We advise you to bring a A5/A4 sketchbook for the recording of ideas and an A3 folder and/or a USB drive, to transport work to and from City Lit. Additional materials required as part of the course will be discussed by your tutor if required. <br> </p><p>We recommend looking at the Visual Communication category of our website, to see our full range of courses and specialist workshops within graphic design, illustration, children’s book illustration and graphic novels. </p><p>Also, you may wish to consider applying to one of our Advanced Programmes in Media and Communications, or a related subject. https://www.citylit.ac.uk/courses/art-and-design/advanced-practice<br> </p>Graphic design & illustrationGraphic designvirtual3068137Developing graphic design399399https://www.citylit.ac.uk/media/catalog/product/d/e/dev_graphicdesign03_14.jpgInStockDaytimeWedKeeley StreetAvailable courses5-10 weeksWeekday2027-04-21T00:00:00+00:00Some experienceApr 2027Art & designVZ345399399Developing graphic design319259399Andrew McCarten, Pam Williamsdeveloping-graphic-design/vz345-2627<p>Graphic Design is everywhere; from books, magazines and newspapers to packaging design and digital media.</p><p>In this developing course, you will further explore the key movements and styles within Graphic Design and explore in more depth layout, typography, colour, shape and pattern and how they can be used to communicate effectively.</p>0000-Available|2027-04-21 00:00:00<p>This course is an intermediate course, for more experienced learners to develop their practical and conceptual skills integral to the discipline of Graphic Design. You will also delve deeper into its context - historical and contemporary - and begin to identify which movements or styles you feel have greatest relevance to your own developing creative practice. </p><p>The course will be taught in our dedicated Visual Communication studio which is equipped with macs and scanners, a range of Adobe software, drawing tablets, printers and a vast range of drawing and painting materials.<br> </p><p>Graphic Design is everywhere; from books, magazines and newspapers to packaging design and digital media.</p><p>In this developing course, you will further explore the key movements and styles within Graphic Design and explore in more depth layout, typography, colour, shape and pattern and how they can be used to communicate effectively.</p><p>Intermediate level teaching of:<br>• The key elements of graphic design: layout (grids and hierarchy), typography, colour, shape, pattern. <br>• How to create designs which communicate specific information. <br>• Researching, developing and realising graphic designs in response to a brief. <br>• The different applications of Graphic Design, from print media to digital. <br>• The key movements and styles within the subject area. <br>• Identifying which of the sub-areas and movements are most relevant to your developing graphic design practice. <br>• Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop and InDesign</p><p>• Manipulate layout, typography, colour, shape, pattern, to communicate more complex information. <br>• Research, develop and realise more complex graphic designs in response to a brief. <br>• Discuss the different applications of graphic design and the key movements and styles, and how to situate your developing personal practice within them.</p><p>This course is suitable for intermediate learners, e.g. those who have completed an introductory course in Graphic Design, or have equivalent knowledge and experience. </p><p><em>English-language competency is required: you should be able to follow verbal and written instructions, demonstrations, hand-outs and health and safety information. You may need to take short written notes for your own use and take part in group discussions.</em><br> </p><ul><li>Presentations</li><li>Demonstrations</li><li>Practical work</li><li>Individual and group tutoring</li><li>Group discussion</li></ul><p>Additional/extension activities may be set for you to complete at home or outside of the course hours. Completion of additional tasks is encouraged to help you get the most out of the course. Where required your tutor will discuss these with you.</p><p><em>Self-reflection is an important part of learning in art education and creative practice. You will be encouraged to engage with reflecting on your own work and progress as part of the learning process in Visual Arts.</em></p><p>At City Lit, access to basic materials and resources are available as part of this course. We advise you to bring a A5/A4 sketchbook for the recording of ideas and an A3 folder and/or a USB drive, to transport work to and from City Lit. Additional materials required as part of the course will be discussed by your tutor if required. <br> </p><p>We recommend looking at the Visual Communication category of our website, to see our full range of courses and specialist workshops within graphic design, illustration, children’s book illustration and graphic novels. </p><p>Also, you may wish to consider applying to one of our Advanced Programmes in Media and Communications, or a related subject. https://www.citylit.ac.uk/courses/art-and-design/advanced-practice<br> </p>Graphic design & illustrationGraphic designvirtual319399259VZ124,VZ121,VZ125,VZ345NONEThu,Wed10/09/26 - 29/10/2618:00 - 21:0018:0021:008 sessions (over 8 weeks)85-10 weeksEvening,DaytimeWeekdayKSKeeley StreetJohn Smyth, Pam Williams,Andrew McCarten, Pam WilliamsAvailable courses2026-09-10T00:00:00+00:00,2027-01-06T00:00:00+00:00,2027-02-03T00:00:00+00:00,2027-04-21T00:00:00+00:00Sep 2026,Jan 2027,Feb 2027,Apr 2027Art & design399399Developing graphic designdeveloping-graphic-design/vz124-2627,developing-graphic-design/vz121-2627,developing-graphic-design/vz125-2627,developing-graphic-design/vz345-2627<p>Graphic Design is everywhere; from books, magazines and newspapers to packaging design and digital media.</p><p>In this developing course, you will further explore the key movements and styles within Graphic Design and explore in more depth layout, typography, colour, shape and pattern and how they can be used to communicate effectively.</p>0000-Available|2026-09-10 00:00:00<p>This course is an intermediate course, for more experienced learners to develop their practical and conceptual skills integral to the discipline of Graphic Design. You will also delve deeper into its context - historical and contemporary - and begin to identify which movements or styles you feel have greatest relevance to your own developing creative practice. </p><p>The course will be taught in our dedicated Visual Communication studio which is equipped with macs and scanners, a range of Adobe software, drawing tablets, printers and a vast range of drawing and painting materials.<br> </p><p>Graphic Design is everywhere; from books, magazines and newspapers to packaging design and digital media.</p><p>In this developing course, you will further explore the key movements and styles within Graphic Design and explore in more depth layout, typography, colour, shape and pattern and how they can be used to communicate effectively.</p><p>Intermediate level teaching of:<br>• The key elements of graphic design: layout (grids and hierarchy), typography, colour, shape, pattern. <br>• How to create designs which communicate specific information. <br>• Researching, developing and realising graphic designs in response to a brief. <br>• The different applications of Graphic Design, from print media to digital. <br>• The key movements and styles within the subject area. <br>• Identifying which of the sub-areas and movements are most relevant to your developing graphic design practice. <br>• Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop and InDesign</p><p>• Manipulate layout, typography, colour, shape, pattern, to communicate more complex information. <br>• Research, develop and realise more complex graphic designs in response to a brief. <br>• Discuss the different applications of graphic design and the key movements and styles, and how to situate your developing personal practice within them.</p><p>This course is suitable for intermediate learners, e.g. those who have completed an introductory course in Graphic Design, or have equivalent knowledge and experience. </p><p><em>English-language competency is required: you should be able to follow verbal and written instructions, demonstrations, hand-outs and health and safety information. You may need to take short written notes for your own use and take part in group discussions.</em><br> </p><ul><li>Presentations</li><li>Demonstrations</li><li>Practical work</li><li>Individual and group tutoring</li><li>Group discussion</li></ul><p>Additional/extension activities may be set for you to complete at home or outside of the course hours. Completion of additional tasks is encouraged to help you get the most out of the course. Where required your tutor will discuss these with you.</p><p><em>Self-reflection is an important part of learning in art education and creative practice. You will be encouraged to engage with reflecting on your own work and progress as part of the learning process in Visual Arts.</em></p><p>At City Lit, access to basic materials and resources are available as part of this course. We advise you to bring a A5/A4 sketchbook for the recording of ideas and an A3 folder and/or a USB drive, to transport work to and from City Lit. Additional materials required as part of the course will be discussed by your tutor if required. <br> </p><p>We recommend looking at the Visual Communication category of our website, to see our full range of courses and specialist workshops within graphic design, illustration, children’s book illustration and graphic novels. </p><p>Also, you may wish to consider applying to one of our Advanced Programmes in Media and Communications, or a related subject. https://www.citylit.ac.uk/courses/art-and-design/advanced-practice<br> </p>Graphic design & illustrationGraphic designconfigurable
