MA Visual Communication

Program Overview

The MA Visual Communication program at the University of Salford equips students with industry-level skills in graphic design, illustration, and other visual communication fields. Through interdisciplinary collaboration, live projects, and self-initiated research, students develop a mature design practice and a critical understanding of contemporary creative practices. The program prepares graduates for careers in the creative industries, including graphic design, advertising, and web programming, and offers opportunities for further study in Visual Communication.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

• Designed for: Individuals with a passion for conveying complex concepts visually and creating/applying their own graphic language in diverse fields like type design, illustration, print/web design, service design, and design for social impact.
• Focus: Equipping students with industry-level skills, interdisciplinary collaboration experiences, and self-initiated research capabilities.
• Live projects: Collaborative opportunities with cultural organizations in Salford and Greater Manchester like Hotbed Press, Islington Mill, Salford Museum & Art Gallery, Textbook Studios & Salford Art Collection, Dr Me, and Magma Books.
• Cross-disciplinary approach: Encourages collaboration with students from MA Art and Design programs like Socially Engaged Art, Photography, Fine Art, and Creative Technology, mirroring real-world industry practices.

Outline:

#Full-time:

Semester 1:

• Creative Research Methods: Understanding and applying research methods in practice.
Development of an individual line of inquiry supported through lectures, seminars, and tutorials. Assessment: Two submissions (weeks 7 & 12), project-based (70%), with a written component (30%).
• Exploring Theory and Practice: Examining theoretical and practical issues faced by practitioners in art and the creative/cultural industries.
Development of new ideas through research and practice, focusing on international contexts and contemporary debates around creativity.

Semester 2:

• Real-World Context: Placement in a relevant workplace to gain real-world experience and test out evolving ideas.
Exploration of professional subjects and skill development within the creative and cultural industries.
• Applied Practice: Examining the application of design work to external contexts like live projects, commissions, and external sites.
Establishing a mature design practice and demonstrating research focus through a critical and practical framework.

Semester 3:

• Definitive Practice: Major project focusing on critically engaging with a research question or line of inquiry.
Development of a constructive practical response and formulation of conclusions based on the created body of work. Culminates in an exhibition or other public exposition.
• #Part-time:

Year 1, Semesters 1 and 2:

• Creative Research Methods (as above).

• Applied Practice (as above).

• Real-World Context (as above).

Year 2, Semesters 1, 2, and 3:

• Exploring Theory and Practice (as above).

Assessment:

• Body of work and contextual research: Action research, publications, exhibitions, etc.
• Reflective journals: Logs, sketchbooks, statements, critical writing, seminar presentations.
• All submissions: Body of practice, contextual research portfolio, reflective logs/journals, and case studies.

• Submission format negotiation: Adaptable to individual needs and contemporary professional practices.

Teaching:

• Timetable: Provided before the program starts, allowing time for independent research.
• Location: New Adelphi building, offering a variety of teaching/learning spaces.
• Methods: Lectures, seminars/workshops, tutorials, situated learning (live projects), independent learning, exercises, team and peer-based learning, studio practice, critical seminar-events, site visits, visiting professionals, work placements, online activities, and critical debates.
• Delivery: One day per week for full-time students, concentrated morning delivery for part-time students alongside full-time students.

Careers:

• Preparation: Equips students with the hands-on experience needed to excel in the creative industries.
• Existing professional links: Strong network of art and design contacts across the region.
• Graduate outcomes: Animating, graphic design, advertising, teaching, art directing, web programming, photography, and more.
• Cost: £8,820 per year for UK students, £16,380 per year for international students.

| Type of study | Year | Fees | |---|---|---| | Full-time home | 2024/25 | £8,820.00 per year | | Full-time international | 2024/25 | £16,380.00 per year | | Part-time | 2024/25 | Part time costs are calculated on a pro rata basis | | Full-time home | 2025/26 | £9,100.00 per year | | Full-time international | 2025/26 | £17,000.00 per year |