Course Insight

Graphic design is deliciously diverse – it is used to inform and to influence, to entertain and to educate. Our course is far from ordinary; we regard you as a designer from the moment you arrive at our purpose-built studios, and by the time you leave you will be expert in your field, equipped to succeed in a competitive industry. Our BDes Graphic Design explores the changing concept of graphic design and the role of the graphic designer in society and the professional world; designer as curator, author, craftsperson, editor, educator, collaborator, agitator.

The course provides excellent preparation for a creative career in the UK and abroad. Many of our graduates establish their own freelance businesses or independent design companies.

Teaching and learning

Lectures will give you a firm grounding in the theoretical aspects of graphic design and will help you to develop your critical understanding of your own practice. Seminars in smaller groups will enable you to discuss and develop your understanding of topics covered in lectures and enable you to express your ideas, observations and experiences in a supportive academic environment. You will engage with self and peer assessment, collaborate on projects and contribute meaningfully to your peer group. Throughout the entire course you will attend lectures and seminars with students from across the department, to develop a deeper understanding of all disciplines. You will typically have around 12 contact hours per week.

Assessment

A variety of assessment methods are used including projects, essays, group/visual presentations. There are no exams. You will engage in written critical evaluation of your work and relate it to the broader context of graphic design practice.

Enrolment and Duration

This is a four-year full time programme. Each academic year usually commences in the first week of October and, in some cases, the last week of September. The academic year runs for a period of 32 weeks. Students may enroll up to two weeks before the course starting date however, early enrolment is advised as places are limited.

Entry Requirements

Due to the creative nature of the course, you will be considered on your own individual merit and potential to succeed. We may make different offers where appropriate to candidates who have a strong portfolio, or substantial relevant work/other experience and whose motivation and skills would enable them to succeed on the course. In your application, please give full details of any relevant work experience and qualifications.

Candidates must be at least 17 years of age by 1stSeptember of the year they wish to enter onto the course and must hold a Secondary School Diploma or Foundation Certificate/Diploma or equivalent. Candidates will also be required to be proficient in the English Language.

Graduation Requirements

The entire course comprises of a total of 37 modules over 4 years. To achieve the BDes degree, you must complete all modules to achieve the required 240 credits (ECTS*) for successful completion (See ‘Course Structure’).

* European Credit Transfer System

Where Next?

Graphic design is a creative professional discipline that remains in strong demand, due to the ways that its underpinning principles inform almost all visual communication. Graduates from the course have moved into a range of creative careers, including working as graphic designers either salaried within design agencies or on a freelance basis.

Our interdisciplinary ethos and approach assists graduates in working not only in prescribed work roles such as graphic designers, graphic artists and artworkers, but in working across the range of creative industries including graphic design, influencing, marketing, social media, web design and beyond.

Tuition Fees;