BADIE - GRAPHIC DESIGN

Graphic Design is the process of visual communication and problem solving through the use of typography, photography and illustration.The field is considered a subset of visual communication and communication design, but sometimes the term "graphic design" is used synonymously. Graphic designers create and combine symbols, images and text to form visual representations of ideas and messages. They use typography, visual arts and page layout techniques to create visual compositions. Common uses of graphic design include corporate design (logos and branding), editorial design (magazines, newspapers and books), advertising, web design, communication design, product packaging and signage.

When one chooses that he/she wishes to become a graphic designer, there are different schools one can attend in order to receive their degree in graphic design. Firstly, there is the choice than I have chosen. This is to attend MCAST Institute for the Creative Arts. To be able to attend this course, you must either have been in the Institute for a number of years according to your school qualifications before that. Or what I did. After acquiring 2 A levels(one must be Art or Graphical Communication) and 2 Intermediates, I went straight to level 6 which is BA(University Level). This course is a 3 year course.

To become a graphic designer you could also attend the University of Malta. However, to attend the University you must have 2 A levels, 3 Intermediates and a compulsory subject called Systems of Knowledge. Not only that, you must have a minimum number of points. These points are achieved according to the marks of your exams. The better the marks, the higher the points.

There then are easier ways to achieve this degree. Since they are easier, they do not teach you as much and do not able you to build a portfolio or 'character' as a designer. One in particular is the course at ICE Malta. ICE standing for Institute of Computer Education. This Institute, unlike other mentioned, is not free. There is a fee to be payed before the commencement of the course. As written on their site for the graphic design course, ICE say 'we instill the basics of the graphic design process.' So this will be just showing how to use the programs instead of building a portfolio. The certificate after passing this course is not a BA Hons certificate but a Adobe Certificate.The course is part time not full time(unlike the others), Entry requirements is only 'Good Knowledge of English', and the duration is only 16hours split into 8 lessons of 2 hours once a week.