Graphic Design is everywhere; in our books, magazines, and newspapers. Emblazoning packaging at the corner shop to the mall. On our screens- phones, TVs, computers and tablets.In this introductory...
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 introduction to the practical and conceptual skills integral to the discipline of Graphic Design. You will be introduced to the key movements and styles which have shaped this subject area and have the opportunity to develop your graphic design skills.
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?
• 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.
Please note that computer software is not taught as part of this course.
What will I achieve? By the end of this course you should be able to...
• Manipulate imagery, type, layout, colour, shape, pattern to communicate basic information. • Research, develop and realise simple graphic designs in response to a brief. • Discuss the different applications of graphic design and the key movements and styles.
What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?
This course is suitable for beginners.
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.
This course may be supported by Google Classroom as a Virtual Learning Environment. When you log on you will be able to access course material, presentations, and handouts etc. and may be asked to complete learner progress records. You can find help via the student help centre on the City Lit website.
Please note it is important that you sign up and log in to your course Google classroom prior to the first session. Joining detail will be sent to you via email (check your junk/spam folder).
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.
Need art supplies? Our partner London Graphic Centre has everything you need from pencils to printing services, at 15% off.
To get 15% LGC discount, you will need to show proof/ confirmation of enrolment and being a student at City Lit. You can apply in-store or by simply emailing info@londongraphics.co.uk with a scan or photo of relevant confirmation. Student discount does not apply to products that are already discounted or on offer. More information can be found here- https://www.londongraphics.co.uk/student-discounts/
When you enrol on a course at the City Lit, you will be able to apply for a student discount on Adobe Creative Cloud. Simply create an Adobe account using your City Lit email address (which includes your student number) and indicate that you are a student. Please note that Adobe accounts must be set up by students independently, your tutor or other staff cannot support you with this.
When I've finished, what course can I do next?
We recommend looking at our Developing Graphic Design course as a next step in your progression. In addition, we offer a range of courses and specialist workshops within graphic design, illustration, children’s book illustration and graphic novels.
For more information about any of the courses on offer, please visit our website.
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
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.
John SmythSee moreSee less
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.
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/introduction-to-graphic-design334470Introduction to graphic designhttps://www.citylit.ac.uk/media/catalog/product/v/z/vz122_intro_graphic_design.jpg389389GBPInStock/Courses/Courses/Art & design/Courses/Art & design/Graphic design & illustration/Courses/Art & design/Graphic design & illustration/Graphic design/Courses/vm/Beginners courses in art & design22851132116311751360812285113211631653<p>Graphic Design is everywhere; in our books, magazines, and newspapers. Emblazoning packaging at the corner shop to the mall. On our screens- phones, TVs, computers and tablets.</p><p>In this introductory course, learn how to use image and type to communicate your messages and ideas through a variety of different ways.<br/> </p>44.82539936Introduction to graphic design389389https://www.citylit.ac.uk/media/catalog/product/v/z/vz122_intro_graphic_design_15.jpgInStockDaytimeWedKeeley StreetAvailable courses5-10 weeksWeekday2026-01-07T00:00:00+00:00BeginnersJan 2026Art & designVZ122389389Introduction to graphic design311253389Andrew McCarten, Pam Williamsintroduction-to-graphic-design/vz122-2526<p>Graphic Design is everywhere; in our books, magazines, and newspapers. Emblazoning packaging at the corner shop to the mall. On our screens- phones, TVs, computers and tablets.</p><p>In this introductory course, learn how to use image and type to communicate your messages and ideas through a variety of different ways.<br/> </p>0000-Available|2026-01-07 00:00:00<p>This course is an introduction to the practical and conceptual skills integral to the discipline of Graphic Design. You will be introduced to the key movements and styles which have shaped this subject area and have the opportunity to develop your graphic design skills.</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; in our books, magazines, and newspapers. Emblazoning packaging at the corner shop to the mall. On our screens- phones, TVs, computers and tablets.</p><p>In this introductory course, learn how to use image and type to communicate your messages and ideas through a variety of different ways.<br/> </p><p>• 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.</p><p>Please note that computer software is not taught as part of this course.<br/> </p><p>• Manipulate imagery, type, layout, colour, shape, pattern to communicate basic information. <br/>• Research, develop and realise simple graphic designs in response to a brief.<br/>• Discuss the different applications of graphic design and the key movements and styles. <br/> </p><p>This course is suitable for beginners.</p><p>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.<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>This course may be supported by Google Classroom as a Virtual Learning Environment. When you log on you will be able to access course material, presentations, and handouts etc. and may be asked to complete learner progress records. You can find help via the student help centre on the City Lit website.</p><p>Please note it is important that you sign up and log in to your course Google classroom prior to the first session. Joining detail will be sent to you via email (check your junk/spam folder).<br/> </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. </p><p>Need art supplies? Our partner London Graphic Centre has everything you need from pencils to printing services, at 15% off.</p><p>To get 15% LGC discount, you will need to show proof/ confirmation of enrolment and being a student at City Lit. You can apply in-store or by simply emailing info@londongraphics.co.uk with a scan or photo of relevant confirmation. Student discount does not apply to products that are already discounted or on offer. More information can be found here- https://www.londongraphics.co.uk/student-discounts/</p><p>When you enrol on a course at the City Lit, you will be able to apply for a student discount on Adobe Creative Cloud. Simply create an Adobe account using your City Lit email address (which includes your student number) and indicate that you are a student. Please note that Adobe accounts must be set up by students independently, your tutor or other staff cannot support you with this.<br/> </p><p>We recommend looking at our Developing Graphic Design course as a next step in your progression. In addition, we offer a range of courses and specialist workshops within graphic design, illustration, children’s book illustration and graphic novels.</p><p>For more information about any of the courses on offer, please visit our website.</p><p><a href="http://citylit.ac.uk">www.citylit.ac.uk</a><br/> </p>Graphic design & illustrationGraphic designvirtual2539939Introduction to graphic design389389https://www.citylit.ac.uk/media/catalog/product/v/z/vz122_intro_graphic_design_17.jpgInStockEveningThuKeeley StreetAvailable courses5-10 weeksWeekday2026-06-18T00:00:00+00:00BeginnersJun 2026Art & designVZ378389389Introduction to graphic design311253389John Smyth, Pam Williamsintroduction-to-graphic-design/vz378-2526<p>Graphic Design is everywhere; in our books, magazines, and newspapers. Emblazoning packaging at the corner shop to the mall. On our screens- phones, TVs, computers and tablets.</p><p>In this introductory course, learn how to use image and type to communicate your messages and ideas through a variety of different ways.<br/> </p>0000-Available|2026-06-18 00:00:00<p>This course is an introduction to the practical and conceptual skills integral to the discipline of Graphic Design. You will be introduced to the key movements and styles which have shaped this subject area and have the opportunity to develop your graphic design skills.</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; in our books, magazines, and newspapers. Emblazoning packaging at the corner shop to the mall. On our screens- phones, TVs, computers and tablets.</p><p>In this introductory course, learn how to use image and type to communicate your messages and ideas through a variety of different ways.<br/> </p><p>• 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.</p><p>Please note that computer software is not taught as part of this course.<br/> </p><p>• Manipulate imagery, type, layout, colour, shape, pattern to communicate basic information. <br/>• Research, develop and realise simple graphic designs in response to a brief.<br/>• Discuss the different applications of graphic design and the key movements and styles. <br/> </p><p>This course is suitable for beginners.</p><p>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.<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>This course may be supported by Google Classroom as a Virtual Learning Environment. When you log on you will be able to access course material, presentations, and handouts etc. and may be asked to complete learner progress records. You can find help via the student help centre on the City Lit website.</p><p>Please note it is important that you sign up and log in to your course Google classroom prior to the first session. Joining detail will be sent to you via email (check your junk/spam folder).<br/> </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. </p><p>Need art supplies? Our partner London Graphic Centre has everything you need from pencils to printing services, at 15% off.</p><p>To get 15% LGC discount, you will need to show proof/ confirmation of enrolment and being a student at City Lit. You can apply in-store or by simply emailing info@londongraphics.co.uk with a scan or photo of relevant confirmation. Student discount does not apply to products that are already discounted or on offer. More information can be found here- https://www.londongraphics.co.uk/student-discounts/</p><p>When you enrol on a course at the City Lit, you will be able to apply for a student discount on Adobe Creative Cloud. Simply create an Adobe account using your City Lit email address (which includes your student number) and indicate that you are a student. Please note that Adobe accounts must be set up by students independently, your tutor or other staff cannot support you with this.<br/> </p><p>We recommend looking at our Developing Graphic Design course as a next step in your progression. In addition, we offer a range of courses and specialist workshops within graphic design, illustration, children’s book illustration and graphic novels.</p><p>For more information about any of the courses on offer, please visit our website.</p><p><a href="http://citylit.ac.uk">www.citylit.ac.uk</a><br/> </p>Graphic design & illustrationGraphic designvirtual2539942Introduction to graphic design389389https://www.citylit.ac.uk/media/catalog/product/v/z/vz122_intro_graphic_design_16.jpgInStockDaytimeWedKeeley StreetAvailable courses5-10 weeksWeekday2026-04-22T00:00:00+00:00BeginnersApr 2026Art & designVZ469389389Introduction to graphic design311253389Andrew McCarten, Pam Williamsintroduction-to-graphic-design/vz469-2526<p>Graphic Design is everywhere; in our books, magazines, and newspapers. Emblazoning packaging at the corner shop to the mall. On our screens- phones, TVs, computers and tablets.</p><p>In this introductory course, learn how to use image and type to communicate your messages and ideas through a variety of different ways.<br/> </p>0000-Available|2026-04-22 00:00:00<p>This course is an introduction to the practical and conceptual skills integral to the discipline of Graphic Design. You will be introduced to the key movements and styles which have shaped this subject area and have the opportunity to develop your graphic design skills.</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; in our books, magazines, and newspapers. Emblazoning packaging at the corner shop to the mall. On our screens- phones, TVs, computers and tablets.</p><p>In this introductory course, learn how to use image and type to communicate your messages and ideas through a variety of different ways.<br/> </p><p>• 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.</p><p>Please note that computer software is not taught as part of this course.<br/> </p><p>• Manipulate imagery, type, layout, colour, shape, pattern to communicate basic information. <br/>• Research, develop and realise simple graphic designs in response to a brief.<br/>• Discuss the different applications of graphic design and the key movements and styles. <br/> </p><p>This course is suitable for beginners.</p><p>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.<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>This course may be supported by Google Classroom as a Virtual Learning Environment. When you log on you will be able to access course material, presentations, and handouts etc. and may be asked to complete learner progress records. You can find help via the student help centre on the City Lit website.</p><p>Please note it is important that you sign up and log in to your course Google classroom prior to the first session. Joining detail will be sent to you via email (check your junk/spam folder).<br/> </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. </p><p>Need art supplies? Our partner London Graphic Centre has everything you need from pencils to printing services, at 15% off.</p><p>To get 15% LGC discount, you will need to show proof/ confirmation of enrolment and being a student at City Lit. You can apply in-store or by simply emailing info@londongraphics.co.uk with a scan or photo of relevant confirmation. Student discount does not apply to products that are already discounted or on offer. More information can be found here- https://www.londongraphics.co.uk/student-discounts/</p><p>When you enrol on a course at the City Lit, you will be able to apply for a student discount on Adobe Creative Cloud. Simply create an Adobe account using your City Lit email address (which includes your student number) and indicate that you are a student. Please note that Adobe accounts must be set up by students independently, your tutor or other staff cannot support you with this.<br/> </p><p>We recommend looking at our Developing Graphic Design course as a next step in your progression. In addition, we offer a range of courses and specialist workshops within graphic design, illustration, children’s book illustration and graphic novels.</p><p>For more information about any of the courses on offer, please visit our website.</p><p><a href="http://citylit.ac.uk">www.citylit.ac.uk</a><br/> </p>Graphic design & illustrationGraphic designvirtual311389253VZ122,VZ378,VZ469NONEWed,Thu07/01/26 - 25/02/2610:00 - 13:0010:0013:008 sessions (over 8 weeks)85-10 weeksDaytime,EveningWeekdayKSKeeley StreetAndrew McCarten, Pam Williams,John Smyth, Pam WilliamsBeginnersAvailable courses2026-01-07T00:00:00+00:00,2026-06-18T00:00:00+00:00,2026-04-22T00:00:00+00:00Jan 2026,Jun 2026,Apr 2026Art & design389389Introduction to graphic designintroduction-to-graphic-design/vz122-2526,introduction-to-graphic-design/vz378-2526,introduction-to-graphic-design/vz469-2526<p>Graphic Design is everywhere; in our books, magazines, and newspapers. Emblazoning packaging at the corner shop to the mall. On our screens- phones, TVs, computers and tablets.</p><p>In this introductory course, learn how to use image and type to communicate your messages and ideas through a variety of different ways.<br/> </p>0000-Available|2026-01-07 00:00:00<p>This course is an introduction to the practical and conceptual skills integral to the discipline of Graphic Design. You will be introduced to the key movements and styles which have shaped this subject area and have the opportunity to develop your graphic design skills.</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; in our books, magazines, and newspapers. Emblazoning packaging at the corner shop to the mall. On our screens- phones, TVs, computers and tablets.</p><p>In this introductory course, learn how to use image and type to communicate your messages and ideas through a variety of different ways.<br/> </p><p>• 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.</p><p>Please note that computer software is not taught as part of this course.<br/> </p><p>• Manipulate imagery, type, layout, colour, shape, pattern to communicate basic information. <br/>• Research, develop and realise simple graphic designs in response to a brief.<br/>• Discuss the different applications of graphic design and the key movements and styles. <br/> </p><p>This course is suitable for beginners.</p><p>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.<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>This course may be supported by Google Classroom as a Virtual Learning Environment. When you log on you will be able to access course material, presentations, and handouts etc. and may be asked to complete learner progress records. You can find help via the student help centre on the City Lit website.</p><p>Please note it is important that you sign up and log in to your course Google classroom prior to the first session. Joining detail will be sent to you via email (check your junk/spam folder).<br/> </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. </p><p>Need art supplies? Our partner London Graphic Centre has everything you need from pencils to printing services, at 15% off.</p><p>To get 15% LGC discount, you will need to show proof/ confirmation of enrolment and being a student at City Lit. You can apply in-store or by simply emailing info@londongraphics.co.uk with a scan or photo of relevant confirmation. Student discount does not apply to products that are already discounted or on offer. More information can be found here- https://www.londongraphics.co.uk/student-discounts/</p><p>When you enrol on a course at the City Lit, you will be able to apply for a student discount on Adobe Creative Cloud. Simply create an Adobe account using your City Lit email address (which includes your student number) and indicate that you are a student. Please note that Adobe accounts must be set up by students independently, your tutor or other staff cannot support you with this.<br/> </p><p>We recommend looking at our Developing Graphic Design course as a next step in your progression. In addition, we offer a range of courses and specialist workshops within graphic design, illustration, children’s book illustration and graphic novels.</p><p>For more information about any of the courses on offer, please visit our website.</p><p><a href="http://citylit.ac.uk">www.citylit.ac.uk</a><br/> </p>Graphic design & illustrationGraphic designconfigurable
