Graphic Design Degree BA (Hons)

Course Content

This practice-led course immerses you in the dynamic world of Graphic Design, equipping you with the skills and knowledge to thrive.  We blend industry-standard practices with a strong focus on creative development, empowering you to cultivate your unique design voice.

Gain real-world experience through projects, develop teamwork and communication skills, and hone critical thinking for market success. Craft a standout portfolio showcasing your creative vision and marketability.  By graduation, you'll be a well-rounded graphic designer with the skills and confidence to excel in the industry.

Teaching Method

We use a variety of teaching methods, including: 

• practical and creative studio-based workshops
• discussions
• lectures/seminars
• tutorials
• small group study
• self-directed study
• study trips

Key Features

• Collaborate and develop your abilities with cross-media experimentation and fulfilment of live briefs from within the department and professional external studios.
• Delivered by expert tutors with industry experience
• Access to a dedicated computer suite, print room, photography studios and a 3D workshop.
• Study across various media, processes and disciplines, including graphic design, illustration and animation.

Year One

The first year centres on building your design foundation. You'll learn the creative process, explore core techniques like typography and software like Adobe Creative Suite, and develop a critical eye for design's impact within a historical and contemporary context. A self-directed project lets you showcase your skills and delve into design areas that excite you. This program equips you for future design specialisation.

• Unit 1: The Creative Process
• Unit 2: Cultural and Contextual Studies
• Unit 3: Materials and Methods
• Unit 4: Digital Design
• Unit 5: Applied Graphic Design
• Unit 6: Minor Project

Year Two

The second year of the program transforms students into industry-ready graphic designers. They'll gain practical experience through real-world industry briefs, honing their creative and self-management skills throughout the entire design process. This includes research, development, presentations, and even client interaction.

Running alongside these projects is a focus on theoretical and research skills. Through critical analysis, discussions, and academic writing, students will develop a strong foundation in Advanced Cultural & Contextual Studies.

The program doesn't stop at design skills – it equips students with the business savvy needed to succeed. A dedicated module tackles essential topics like portfolio creation, marketing strategies, copyright, and financial management.

Finally, students take centre stage in their learning with an Independent Project. This self-directed project allows them to explore their design interests, refine their skills, and create a significant piece for their portfolio.

• Unit 7: Professional Practice 1
• Unit 8: Advanced Cultural & Contextual Studies
• Unit 9 Professional Practice 2
• Unit 10: Business Practice
• Unit 11: Independent Project

Year Three

The final year program fosters creative and critical thinking through a blend of coursework and a culminating major project. The program begins by equipping you with expertise in analysing design briefs and mastering project management skills. You'll then tackle a research project, guided from topic selection to a polished final presentation. Subsequently, you'll have the opportunity to deep dive into a specific area of graphic design that interests you, culminating in a major project that showcases your specialisation. Finally, the program prepares you for the professional world by teaching you the essential skills of self-promotion and running a freelance business.

• Unit 12: Portfolio Studies
• Unit 13: Creative and Critical Research Project (Dissertation)
• Unit 14: Final Major Project
• Unit 15: Self-Promotion