Online MA Graphic Design

Program Overview

The MA Graphic Design program at AUB is a 2-year, part-time online program that focuses on developing students' creative identity in graphic design while addressing global issues like sustainability, inclusivity, and human-centric design. The program blends theory and practice, with a focus on design strategy, usability, and creativity. Students will learn through collaborative learning, critical debate, and multi-modal practice, and will be equipped to engage meaningfully with the world around them and become socially conscious graphic designers.

Program Outline

Detailed Extraction of MA Graphic Design program at AUB:

Degree Overview:

• Focus: Forge a solid creative identity in graphic design, addressing global issues like sustainability, inclusivity, and human-centric design.
• Course format: Online, part-time
• Duration: 2 years
• Start dates: January, May, and September
• Total course fee: £9,900
• Course content: Blends theory and practice with a focus on the three pillars of design: Design Strategy, Usability, and Creativity.
• Learning approach: Collaborative learning through virtual studio communities, critical debate, and multi-modal practice.
• Objectives: Equip students to engage meaningfully with the world around them, become socially conscious graphic designers, and elevate their creative practice.

Outline:

• Modules (15 credits each):
• Introduction Module: Defining Your Purpose as a Designer
• Design Thinking
• Sustainable Futures
• Collaboration in Practice: Brand Sensory Experience
• Cognitive Science and Graphic Design
• Innovate – Human Centred Design
• Behaviour Change using Visual Design
• Inclusivity in Design
• Research Proposal (45 credits)
• Final Project (45 credits)
• Each module explores specific topics through theoretical and practical lenses, including research-based methodologies, professional practice applications, and the use of technology in design.
• Teaching approach: Collaborative and interactive, encouraging independent thought and critical reflection.

Assessment:

• Varies based on module, including:
• Essays and written assignments
• Presentations and group discussions
• Practical projects and creative briefs
• Design portfolios and concept proposals
• Assessment criteria focus on critical thinking, effective communication, research skills, and practical application of design principles.

Teaching:

• Led by experienced professionals and academics in the field of graphic design.
• Course Leader: Stephanie Horan, Senior Designer and founder of Blue Walnut Design.
• Teaching methods: Blended approach, incorporating online lectures, tutorials, group sessions, and individual feedback.

Careers:

• Diverse career options in leading companies worldwide.
• Focus on graduates contributing to sustainability and inclusivity goals.
• Career paths:
• Sustainable Design Consultant
• UX/UI Designer
• Director of Interaction or Experience Design
• Brand/Design Strategist
• Creative Director
• Other potential areas:
Innovation strategy, UX research, packaging design
• Career resources: Networking opportunities with peers and tutors, industry connections, and career guidance.

Other:

• Course content emphasizes understanding the impact of graphic design on individuals and society.
• Focus on equipping students with the skills to navigate the evolving design landscape and stay relevant in the industry.
• Course content includes the ethical and responsible use of design and technology.
• Degree Overview: Admissions process, application deadline, specific program start dates.
• Outline: Course schedule, individual module timings, specific topics covered in each module.
• Assessment: Detailed breakdown of assessment criteria for each module.
• Teaching: Faculty profile, specific teaching methods used for each module, unique pedagogical approaches.