Graphic Design BA
Ways of Seeing – John Berger
A classic exploration of how we view images and art.
The Painter of Modern Life – Charles Baudelaire
A foundational text on modern artistic practice.
Art Since 1900 – Hal Foster et al.
An in-depth overview of modern and contemporary art.
What Painting Is – James Elkins
A thoughtful reflection on the material and conceptual nature of painting.
Seven Days in the Art World – Sarah Thornton
An engaging look at how the contemporary art world operates.
Is this for you?
This degree could suit you if you:
Enjoy visual creativity
Are interested in branding and design
Like working digitally
Want a career in creative industries
Are detail-oriented
Popular Career Fields
Creative & Design Industries
Advertising & Marketing
Digital Media & Technology
Publishing & Media
Your Personality Might Be:
Visual communicator
Advertising & Marketing
Detail-oriented
Trend-aware
What is it?
What is a Graphic Design degree?
Graphic Design is a creative, practice-based degree centred on visual communication.
You’ll learn how to communicate messages, ideas, and identities through design, working across print and digital platforms such as branding, advertising, editorial design, motion graphics, and user interfaces.
The degree combines creative experimentation with conceptual thinking, technical skills, and an understanding of audiences.
It is ideal for students who enjoy creativity, visual storytelling, and working with both ideas and design tools.
Why study Graphic Design?
If you enjoy problem-solving through visual ideas, Graphic Design offers a versatile and industry-relevant pathway.
It helps you understand:
How design shapes communication, culture, and behaviour
How to translate ideas into clear visual outcomes
The role of typography, colour, and composition
How digital tools support creative practice
How designers respond to briefs and real-world clients
Graphic Design graduates are highly employable across creative industries.
Course Summary
Study how to communicate ideas visually using typography, color, layout, and digital tools to create everything from branding and packaging to websites and social media content.
What you'll study
Most Graphic Design degrees include:
Visual communication and design principles
Typography and layout design
Branding and identity design
Digital design and interactive media
Design history and critical studies
Professional practice and portfolio development
Skills You'll Gain
A Graphic Design degree builds creative and technical skills including:
Visual communication and creative thinking – enabling you to express ideas clearly and creatively.
Design and technical skills – helping you work confidently with industry-standard software and tools.
Concept development and problem-solving – allowing you to respond effectively to design briefs.
Critical and reflective practice – supporting evaluation and refinement of your work.
Professional presentation and collaboration – preparing you for client and team-based environments.
Pathways, Placements and Work Experience
CAREERS
Career Pathways
Graduates pursue careers in:
Graphic design and visual communication
Branding and identity design
Digital and web design
Advertising and creative agencies
Publishing and editorial design
Freelance or self-employed creative work
Work Experiences & Placements
Many Graphic Design degrees encourage students to gain professional experience.
Some programmes offer optional placement years, internships, or live briefs with industry partners, while others support work experience during holidays or alongside study.
Typical opportunities include:
Design studios and creative agencies
In-house design teams
Marketing and branding departments
Publishing and media organisations
Freelance and self-initiated projects
Building a strong portfolio is often more important than formal placements.
Salary Profile
Coming soon
Qualifications, Personal Satement, What to do Next?
AM I ELIGIBLE?
Entry Requirements
A-levels (or equivalent) in any subjects, though Art or Design sometimes helpful, alongside a portfolio of creative work.
Personal Statement Tips
Show enthusiasm for visual communication and design.
Discuss creative influences, designers, or projects that inspire you.
Reflect on your creative process and problem-solving approach.
Highlight curiosity, experimentation, and commitment to developing skills.
What to do Next
Start building and refining a design portfolio.
Learn basic design software (e.g. Adobe Creative Suite).
Follow contemporary designers and design studios.
Explore different areas of graphic design to find your interests.
Wider Reading
Thinking with Type – Ellen Lupton
A clear and practical guide to typography and layout.Graphic Design: The New Basics – Ellen Lupton & Jennifer Cole Phillips
A foundational book on visual principles and composition.Ways of Seeing – John Berger
A classic exploration of visual culture and meaning.Logo Design Love – David Airey
Insight into branding and professional design practice.How to Be a Graphic Designer Without Losing Your Soul – Adrian Shaughnessy
A practical guide to navigating the creative industry.