COURSE CURRICULUM

In Year 1 of the Graphic Design program, students begin with a strong foundation in core visual communication principles. The Graphic Design Principles module introduces essential visual literacy components such as composition, scale, contrast, and rhythm, alongside skills in visual research, sketchbook development, and studio practice. Typographic Studies explores the fundamentals of typography, including structure, hierarchy, and typographic expression, encouraging both historical awareness and creative experimentation in two and three dimensions. Experimental Studio Practices connects fine art and design through studio-based projects that cultivate material exploration, technique, and theory. Students engage with specialisations such as artist books, animation, and experimental video, allowing for a personalised creative methodology. Art and Design in Context develops critical awareness of historical and contemporary influences in visual culture, encouraging students to locate their work within broader intellectual, political, and social contexts through writing and discussion. These modules together establish a comprehensive creative and academic base for further development.In Year 2, students explore applied and interdisciplinary design practices. Graphic Design in Branding and Advertising builds on visual communication skills to explore how branding elements such as typography, colour, and packaging shape consumer engagement. Narrative and Sequence introduces students to motion graphics and visual storytelling across sequential media, while Creative Professional Practice connects students with the design industry through guest lectures, portfolio development, and internship preparation. Interdisciplinary Spaces encourages students to observe, analyse, and redesign real-world spaces for more meaningful audience engagement across different disciplines. Critical Practice-Research develops students' ability to critically examine social, political, and cultural issues through both practical and theoretical lenses. This module prepares students for their final year by encouraging exploration of design as a tool for inquiry and change, supported by interaction with professionals and diverse research methods.In Year 3, students focus on individual research, professional positioning, and practical application. The Design Research Project is the core of the final year, allowing students to conduct a self-directed, practice-led investigation that blends theory, making, and critical analysis to produce innovative design outcomes. Professional Practice and Portfolio equips students with the skills needed to transition into the design industry, including personal branding, portfolio creation, and engagement with real-world professional standards. Industry collaboration and entrepreneurship are central themes. Design Engagement complements the research project by offering opportunities to respond to real or simulated design briefs across varied sectors such as publishing, social causes, branding, and transmedia. This final year ensures that graduates leave the program with a well-rounded, critically-informed, and professionally-relevant design practice, ready to enter a diverse and evolving creative industry.