Graphic Design

Graphic Design offers a practice-based, dynamic and idea-oriented experience that enables students to develop a unique design practice and portfolio.

Through workshops, briefs, and collaborative projects, students develop a specialist skillset that engages a range of graphic design disciplines utilising both new and traditional technologies and processes.

Graphic design students develop design and communication projects such as publication design, traditional letterpress and screen printed posters, UI and UX design, experimental and AI enabled design, motion design, print for fabric and clothing, and exhibition design. Experimentation, play and creativity are at the heart of the curriculum on this course. Hands-on experiences with materials, technology and processes help students build confidence and adaptability across the extensive range of creative applications available to graphic designers. Real world scenarios and live briefs are embedded within each year of study, providing students with opportunities to engage with industry professionals and produce work that exists in the world.

What You'll Study

Year one – During your first year on the course you will engage with creative briefs and projects that will help you to adjust to higher education and university life. You will learn to engage with design and communication problems in a playful, experimental and creative way by exploring a range of media, techniques and processes. Engaging with fundamental graphic design skills you will develop an appreciation of the range of disciplines and applications of graphic design.

Year two – In your second year you will develop more refined approaches to the production of your design work, engaging with a range of production methods and finishes. Developing your professional skillset, you will engage with creative collaborations, live briefs, industry talks, and studio visits. You will also begin to develop an appreciation of the ethical and sustainable dimensions of graphic design practices.

Year three* – Your final year of study will channel all the skills learned throughout your time on the course to build a distinct and highly focused design practice. You will engage with your professional and creative ambitions in a dynamic way, making use of University resources and with expert guidance from course staff. Throughout the final year of your degree you will develop a unique portfolio, establish your own targets and needs for the future, and develop the professional skills and resilience needed for employment or further study.

*If you choose to study this course over four years, this will include a placement year (also known as a sandwich year, work placement, industrial placement, or year in industry), which provides a fantastic opportunity to enhance your employability and gain practical experience in your field of study. The placement year typically occurs after year two and before year three. Read our placement year FAQs at www.leeds-art.ac.uk/undergraduate-placement-year-faqs.