COURSE CURRICULUM

The Graphic Design programme combines creative practice, research, professional development, and industry engagement to prepare students for successful careers within the creative industries. Students begin by studying modules such as Communication and Visual Culture 1 and 2, Lateral Thinking, Design Skills, Cultural Context, and Design Strategy, which introduce a range of theoretical perspectives on how visual communication is created, interpreted, and understood within historical, social, and cultural contexts. Through the analysis of visual examples and design issues, students develop critical thinking skills alongside an understanding of the relationship between design and society. As the course progresses, students engage with modules including Professional Practice, Contemporary Issues in Design, Major Practice and Research Project Planning, Creative Practice, The Creative Entrepreneur, and The Creative Industries. These modules focus on the realities of working within the design sector and provide opportunities to explore professional responsibilities, business practices, and entrepreneurial thinking. Students are encouraged to secure and undertake work placements or industry experience relevant to their career ambitions, enabling them to gain practical insight into professional environments and develop valuable industry connections. Where placements are not possible, students complete extended research projects focused on professional contexts and current industry issues. In the final stage of study, students complete modules such as Dissertation: Major Research Project, Creative Awards, Self Initiated Design and Portfolio, and Self Promotion. Students conduct independent research into design-related topics through either a formal dissertation or a practice-based research project combined with a creative response. Alongside this, they develop self-directed portfolio work and professional promotional materials that showcase their individual skills, creativity, and design identity. The programme develops graduates who are creative, commercially aware, critically informed, and professionally prepared for careers across a wide range of design disciplines.