Illustration with Graphic Design

This Illustration with Graphic Design course aims to develop your image making, design and illustration skills, allowing you to develop and refine your own visual voice. You will work on a diverse range of projects that allow your creativity and talent to thrive over digital, motion and print platforms.

Through the course you will learn how to interpret briefs, identify and solve problems to create innovative illustration and design solutions, you will also be able to work on a diverse range of industry and competition briefs, supporting your professional practice and understanding of the industry.

The course is designed to support a career as an illustrator and creative practitioner: In year one, you will focus on understanding the fundamentals of drawing and design principals; in year two, you will begin to locate and develop your individual voice by applying your illustration through creative projects and varied workshops; in year three, you will position your creative practice through professional preparation and real world experiences, supporting your individual aspirations for entering the creative industries.

The Illustration with Graphic Design degree is taught in conjunction with the BA (hons) Graphic Design course, with some shared module-specific teaching, allowing you to build both your professional illustration skills alongside core graphic design knowledge and a supportive community of creative students.

Year one

Block 1: Exploration and Ideation for Graphic Design and Illustration

Block 2: Applied Idea Development for Graphic Design and Illustration

Block 3: Visual Communication for Graphic Design and Illustration

Block 4: Creative Resolution for Graphic Design and Illustration

Year two

Block 1: Design Process for Graphic Design and Illustration

Block 2: Design Process Progression for Graphic Design and Illustration

Block 3: Design Communication for Graphic Design and Illustration

Block 4: Personal Practice for Graphic Design and Illustration

Year three

Block 1: Independent Practice

Block 2: Independent Practice 2

Block 3: Professional Practice

Block 4: Professional Practice 2

Structure

This is a full-time course. Each module is worth 30 credits. Outside of your normal timetabled hours you will be expected to conduct independent study each week to complete preparation tasks, assessments and research.

Course delivery is in block mode, which means each 30 credit module consists of a seven week teaching block.

The multidisciplinary approach requires a range of deliveries, such as: workshop demonstrations, studio work, lectures, seminars, tutorials, group project work, screenings, external visits, visiting professionals, independent learning, research and self-directed studies all inform practical areas of study. Lectures and seminars, research and self-directed study deliver the contextual and historical information students need to inform their thinking around theoretical issues, and their analytical writing skills.

Assessment

Formative reviews of work take place on a continuous weekly tutorial basis preceding formative assessments each semester and summative assessments in May. Assessment strategies adhere to subject benchmarks and applicable professional requirements.

You deserve a positive teaching and learning experience, where you feel part of a supportive and nurturing community. That’s why most students will enjoy an innovative approach to learning using block teaching, where you will study one module at a time. You’ll benefit from regular assessments - rather than lots of exams at the end of the year - and a simple timetable that allows you to engage with your subject and enjoy other aspects of university life such as sports, societies, meeting friends and discovering your new city. By studying with the same peers and tutor for each block, you’ll build friendships and a sense of belonging.