Graphic Design BA Degree Course

Program Overview

The BA (Hons) Graphic Design program at UCLan focuses on developing problem-solving and design skills in both print and digital media. Through coursework-based assessment, students build a foundation in traditional disciplines while exploring digital platforms like moving image and web design. The program includes guest speakers, industry placement opportunities, and an end-of-year Degree Show, equipping students for successful careers in graphic design.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The BA (Hons) Graphic Design course at UCLan is a well-established and successful program that has been running for nearly 50 years. It focuses on creative problem-solving and developing graphic design skills through both print and digital media. The program aims to equip students with a strong foundation in traditional graphic design disciplines like typography, editorial, branding, and packaging, while also introducing them to digital platforms such as moving image, website, and app concepts.

Outline:

The program is delivered over three years and is structured as follows:

• Year 1:
• Design Context 1:
This module explores the key concepts, cultural issues, and contextual discussions surrounding studio and professional practice. Students will delve into the historical development of the design profession and develop cognitive skills essential for creative thinking and reflective practice.
• Introduction to Graphic Communication: This module introduces the fundamentals of Graphic Communication.
Students will develop an understanding of visual language, critical analysis, and presentation skills.
• Year 2:
Students will critically reflect on qualitative design issues and their interaction with the broader context.
• Professional Practice: This module prepares students for potential placement interviews.
It includes one-on-one portfolio surgeries, advice on creating digital folders, and general interview etiquette. Students will also hear from visiting industry speakers and receive feedback from peers who have completed their placement year.
• Graphic Communication in Context: This module develops practical skills, reading, and analytical skills.
Students will participate in critique sessions.
• Applied Graphic Design: This module involves in-depth research, extending creative thinking with visual literacy from level four modules, and responding to project briefs with contemporary styling.
• Year 3:
• Design Context 3:
This module allows students to develop their own research project linked to their career pathway as a professional practitioner. They will develop skills in researching, reporting, and reaching original conclusions.
• External Project: This module exposes students to briefs set by external sources, providing industrial parameters and generating professional digital design solutions from an externally set brief.
• Graphic Design Set Project: This module promotes a focused and structured approach to the final year of study.
Students will work on a Graphic Design-led brief in a professional manner, ensuring they have the necessary knowledge and capability to produce work to a professional standard.
• Graphic Design Self-initiated Project: This module integrates specialist and supporting studies into a coherent, personally driven project based on a major theme of the student's choice.
It promotes analytical and creative skills demonstrating an independent level of learning appropriate for final-level degree project work.

Assessment:

Assessment is based on 100% coursework.

Teaching:

The program is taught in a friendly studio atmosphere, encouraging creativity and idea generation. Students have access to fantastic facilities, including Mac suites loaded with the latest industry software such as the Adobe Creative Suite. The program also features an ongoing program of guest speakers from all areas of graphic design, branding, advertising, illustration, media, and digital design.

Careers:

Many graduates have secured creative roles in leading graphic design and creative agencies, both nationally and internationally. They have a reputation in the industry for producing high-quality work.

• Students have the opportunity to undertake a placement in industry, with many spending a year working in top agencies across London and the North West.
• The program includes a Design Conference Week featuring various national and international guest speakers.
• Students will exhibit their work at the end-of-year Degree Show, open to the public every June.

Fees and funding2024/25 UK Full-time £9,250 per year Sandwich year £1,500 for the sandwich year International Full-time £16,500 per year