MA Visual Communication

Program Overview

The MA Visual Communication program at University for the Creative Arts is an 18-month interdisciplinary course that cultivates advanced research skills, fosters a robust visual communication language, and enables specialization in graphic design, illustration, or animation. Through studio-based learning, collaboration, and industry-standard equipment, students develop enhanced workflow skills and a confident design voice, preparing them for successful careers in the creative industries.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

Objective:

The MA Visual Communication program aims to cultivate advanced research skills, foster a robust visual communication language, and enable specialization within your chosen discipline. The program emphasizes the exploration of diverse media, including illustration, motion graphics, and digital formats, to enhance your design language and equip you with the necessary skills to become a creative leader and innovator in the field.

Description:

• This 18-month interdisciplinary course delves into the exploration of visual communication through various media, fostering a strong understanding of the creative process and its application across different disciplines.
• The program equips students with the skills and knowledge to identify and solve complex design problems within various cross-media environments, including digital printmaking, still and moving image productions.
• Through studio-based learning and collaboration with peers from diverse creative backgrounds, students develop enhanced workflow skills and interdisciplinary understanding.
• The program prepares graduates to enter the professional world with a confident design voice, a specialized and informed design language, and an outstanding portfolio.

Outline:

Program Structure:

• The 18-month program (Level 7) consists of three terms of study and six months dedicated to the completion of a dissertation.
• The first two terms focus on lectures, seminars, and exploration of creative practices to inform the development of a detailed project proposal.
• The third term sees students begin their MA project, evaluating and testing the aims of their proposal through self-directed study.
• The final stage involves applying the acquired knowledge to create a final body of work, allowing students to either take a generic approach or specialize in one of the three available pathways: Graphic Design, Illustration, or Animation.

Course Schedule:

• Term 1: Defining Your Practice
• Explores creative practices to identify a project methodology.
• Cultivates creative discipline.
• Term 2: Context and Method, Project Development
• Learn theory, context, method, and engage in cultural and intellectual debates in your discipline.
• Plan and develop your final MA project.
• Term 3: Realisation and Dissemination
• Demonstrate and execute your final MA project.
• Write your MA dissertation.

Modules:

• Defining Your Practice
• Context and Method
• Project Development
• Realisation and Dissemination

Module Descriptions:

• Defining Your Practice:
Students explore various creative practices to identify a suitable project methodology and cultivate their creative discipline.
• Context and Method:
This module delves into theoretical frameworks, methodologies, and critical analysis, encouraging students to engage in intellectual debates within their chosen discipline. Students also plan and develop their final MA project proposal.
• Project Development:
Students begin working on their MA project, focusing on self-directed study and evaluation of their project's aims.
• Realisation and Dissemination:
This final stage involves the execution and demonstration of the MA project, accompanied by the completion of the dissertation.

Assessment:

Assessment Methods:

• The program utilizes a variety of assessment methods to evaluate student learning, including:
• Individual and group projects
• Presentations
• Essays
• Portfolio reviews
However, general criteria include:
• Critical thinking and analysis
• Creativity and innovation
• Technical skills and proficiency
• Project execution and presentation
• Communication and writing skills

Teaching:

Teaching Methods:

• The program employs diverse teaching methods to cater to different learning styles and encourage active engagement.
These methods include:
• Lectures
• Seminars
• Workshops
• Studio-based learning
• Guest lectures
• Independent study and research

Faculty:

• The program boasts a team of experienced and highly qualified faculty members with extensive industry experience and expertise in their respective fields.
• The faculty members are actively involved in research and creative practice, ensuring students benefit from the latest knowledge and insights.

Unique Approaches:

• The program emphasizes a collaborative learning environment, fostering interaction and exchange of ideas between students and faculty.
• Students have access to industry-standard equipment and software, enabling them to experiment and develop their skills in a professional setting.

Careers:

Potential Career Paths:

• Upon successful completion of the program, graduates can pursue diverse career paths within the creative industries, including:
• Graphic Designer
• Branding/Corporate Designer
• Web and App Designer
• UI/UX Designer
• Art Director Digital
• Creative Director Digital
• Video Director
• Motion Designer / VFX Artist
• AR/VR/MR Designer
• Visualiser/Visual Creative

Career Opportunities:

• The program equips graduates with the skills and knowledge to secure employment in various sectors, including advertising agencies, design studios, marketing firms, branding agencies, technology companies, and cultural institutions.
• Graduates can also pursue freelance careers or further their studies in specialized areas.

Outcomes:

• The program has a strong track record of producing successful graduates who are well-prepared to thrive in the competitive creative industries.
• The program offers a supportive environment with dedicated careers and academic support services.
• Students can participate in various extracurricular activities and events to enhance their learning experience and network with industry professionals.

• International students Price: €12,600
• EU students Price: €8,000
• International students Price: €13,250
• EU students Price: €8,450