COURSE CURRICULUM

The BA Graphic and Communication Design at the University of Leeds combines practical design skills with critical research and academic study, preparing students to become innovative and reflective practitioners. In the first year, students develop foundational knowledge in design history, culture, and technology, while learning visual communication, typography, and image-making. They engage in practical design projects and creative challenges to build portfolios and develop rapid idea-generation skills. Optional modules allow further exploration of areas such as colour design, photography, and information design. In the second year, the focus shifts to professional practice, interaction and experience design, and design research. Students expand their portfolios, explore the societal impact of design, and learn to address complex real-world challenges through team-based projects and emerging technologies. Optional modules provide opportunities to specialize in areas such as brand strategy, book arts, strategic marketing, and contemporary illustration. The final year emphasizes independent work, including a major research project, a self-directed graphic design project, and an innovation module, enabling students to demonstrate advanced skills in visual communication, design research, and creative problem-solving. Across all years, students develop critical thinking, analytical abilities, and professional confidence, equipping them with the theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and creative insight necessary to succeed in the evolving global creative industries.