Graphic Design

Why choose this course?
The BA (Hons) Graphic Design course is designed to equip you with the essential skills and knowledge required to excel in the dynamic field of graphic design. Through a blend of theoretical studies and practical projects, you'll explore various aspects of visual communication, preparing you for a successful career in the creative industries.

You will:
-Access modern studios, workshops, and digital labs to enhance your learning experience
-Participate in guest lectures, field trips, and workshops led by industry professionals
-Apply your knowledge through hands-on projects that mirror real-world design challenges
-Connect with a vibrant community of creatives and potential employers
-Qualify for a free and full subscription to Adobe Creative Cloud for the duration of study
-Showcase your work in public exhibitions, gaining exposure and professional experience
-Learn from practicing artists and scholars with significant industry experience
-Be introduced to professional creative processes and encouraged to expand your abilities through workshops and practical projects
-Learn how to interpret a brief, identify, and solve problems, develop creative individuality, and produce a professional portfolio
-Gain personal, professional, and entrepreneurial skills including working as a freelance designer: from marketing and self-promotion to contracts, invoices and working with clients
-Be encouraged to work on live briefs and competitions

Key Course Features:
-Learn how to create compelling images, work to professional standards, and understand how your work fits into the industry.
-Be introduced to a broad range of creative skills, from the generation of ideas to their technical production through printmaking, traditional and digital media, with an emphasis on design and the development of a unique personal style.
-Engage with a wide range of modules covering design fundamentals, typography, digital skills, and professional practice.
-Develop proficiency in leading design software and contemporary design techniques.
-We have an in-house prototype publishing house where you are able to experiment with alternative binding and folding systems. Also, in the faculty, we boast a two colour Risograph printer, a modern screen-printing facility, 3D printers, laser and traditional cutters and sublimation printing, all of which can help you realise your projects in prototype.
-Our graphic design department boasts a rich legacy, with esteemed alumni such as Jenny-Lee Fisher, Darryl Higgins, Gaz Lawn, Andy Garside, Andy Cheetham and David Barraclough.
-You will benefit from a personalised study program that encourages an outward perspective, engaging in live briefs with local, national, and international impact. Participate in prestigious competitions like D&AD Impact Awards; D&AD New Blood Awards; AGDA Best Design Awards; Indigo Awards; ADC Annual Awards; The Design Kids Awards; TDC Typeface Design Competition; The Young Ones ADC Competition and the World Brand Design Student Awards.
-Due to our intimate and exclusive cohorts, we offer frequent 1-2-1 contact, an open studio policy and flexible workspaces for your entire course.
-As a member of our energetic creative community, you will forge lasting connections and valuable professional networks. Our programme encourages an environment where industry experts and alumni return each year to regularly share their insights with each new generation of commercial designers.

What you will study

YEAR 1 (LEVEL 4)
In the first year, you will be introduced to the fundamental principles of graphic design, focusing on building a strong foundation in both theory and practice.

MODULES
Design Fundamentals: Learn about composition, colour theory, and basic design software tools.
Typography Basics: Explore typefaces, text arrangement, and the role of typography in visual communication.
History and Theory of Design: Study key design movements and their cultural contexts.
Drawing and Visual Studies: Enhance your sketching and observational skills.
Introduction to Branding: Understand the basics of visual identity and brand design concepts.

YEAR 2 (LEVEL 5)
The second year builds upon the foundational skills, encouraging independent creative thinking and introducing industry-relevant practices.

MODULES
Advanced Typography and Layout: Delve deeper into typographic hierarchy and layout principles.
Digital Skills Expansion: Advance your proficiency in design software and explore motion graphics and web design principles.
User Experience (UX) and User Interface (UI) Basics: Learn to create user-friendly digital interfaces.
Branding and Identity: Develop cohesive brand elements through real or hypothetical client briefs.
Design Theory and Analysis: Engage in contemporary design issues and critique sessions.

YEAR 3 (LEVEL 6)
The final year focuses on preparing you for the professional design world, emphasizing specialised skills, major project work, and portfolio refinement.

MODULES
Specialised Modules and Electives: You can choose to specialise in areas like UX/UI design, motion graphics, digital illustration, or other specific design paths.
Final Major Project: Undertake a self-directed project showcasing your unique design voice.
Portfolio Development and Finalisation: Refine and present a cohesive, professional body of work.
Professional Practice and Career Preparation: Participate in workshops covering CV creation, portfolio presentation, and interview techniques.
Research Project: Conduct an in-depth study on a design-related topic.

The information listed in this section is an overview of the academic content of the programme that will take the form of either core or option modules. Modules are designated as core or option in accordance with professional body requirements and internal academic framework review, so may be subject to change.

Teaching & Assessment
You will experience a blend of lectures, seminars, practical workshops, and project-based learning. Assessment methods include essays, exams, portfolios, and presentations, designed to evaluate both your theoretical understanding and practical application of design concepts.