Graphic Design

Why choose this course?

Graphic Design BA (Hons) explores the communication of ideas and messages to diverse and evolving audiences through a dynamic range of media that highlights the potential of what design can achieve.

Studio culture is at the heart of the Graphic Design programme, naturally fostering the creativity, collaboration and debate that inspire personal perspectives on design. Students experiment with a range of traditional processes and emerging technologies to challenge established conventions of image-making and meaning.

Through engaging with real-world problems, social issues and commercial scenarios students develop critical, reflective and professional skills that will prepare them for the ever-changing creative industries.

Our Graphic Design course has been successful in the Guardian University Guide:

Ranked 10th for Satisfied with Teaching for Graphic Design**

Why choose the University of Northampton?

At the University of Northampton, you’ll benefit from a supportive, career-focused experience designed to help you succeed.

Personalised learning

Study in small groups led by expert academics, with dedicated one-to-one support. Our close-knit community ensures you receive individual guidance while being challenged to achieve your best.

Built for your future

Whatever your goals, we’ll help you get there. You’ll develop valuable skills, discover your strengths, and gain real-world experience - so you’re ready to stand out when applying for jobs or further study.

Guaranteed accommodation

We guarantee a room in our Halls of Residence for all new full-time first-year students who apply and accept their offer by June 2027***.

Exceptional student benefits

You’ll receive a brand-new laptop at no additional cost****, and all essential textbooks are available through our library - helping you save money throughout your studies.

A modern campus experience

Study at our student-led purpose-built Waterside Campus, designed to provide an inspiring and dynamic environment for learning and student life. Visit us at an Open Day to see it for yourself.

The Northampton Employment Promise

We’re confident you’ll graduate ready to launch your career. If you’re not in employment within six months, you’ll receive dedicated support from a Careers Development Consultant. If you’re still seeking opportunities after that, we’ll offer you a paid internship.

✱✱ Data taken from the 2026 Guardian University Guide Graphic Design Subject table, filtered by Satisfied with Teaching
✱✱✱ eligibility criteria and terms and conditions apply. See northampton.ac.uk/benefits for more information
✱✱✱✱ eligibility criteria apply. See northampton.ac.uk/student-life/accommodation/ for more information

Course Modules

STAGE 1:

• Exploring Creative Practice (Compulsory)

• Roles and Contexts (Compulsory)

• Creative Projects (Compulsory)

• Critical and Cultural Perspectives (Compulsory)

STAGE 2:

• Graphic Design in Action (Compulsory)

• Creative Collaborations (Compulsory)

• Visual and Material Culture (Compulsory)

• Typographic Practice (Compulsory)

• Design Innovation (Compulsory)

STAGE 3:

• Professional Project (Compulsory)

• Careers for Graphic Designers (Compulsory)

• Industry Briefs (Compulsory)

Module information is quoted for 26/27 entry. Please note that modules run subject to student numbers and staff availability, any changes will be communicated to applicants accordingly. 27/28 entry modules will be released in June 2027.

The course is assessed in a number of ways:

• Portfolio presentations

• Essays

• Dissertation

• Self-assessment and personal reflection.