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BA (Hons) Visual Communication with Professional Practice Year
Canterbury
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The BA (Hons) Visual Communication with Professional Practice Year at the University for the Creative Arts (UCA) offers students an immersive and dynamic journey into the world of visual communication. This innovative program is designed to equip students with the skills, knowledge, and creativity needed to thrive in a variety of visual communication disciplines, including graphic design, illustration, branding, advertising, and digital media. Through a combination of theoretical study, practical projects, and industry placements, students develop a deep understanding of visual language, communication theory, and design principles. The inclusion of a professional practice year provides students with invaluable real-world experience, allowing them to apply their skills in professional settings, build industry connections, and refine their career aspirations.
1. Comprehensive Curriculum: The BA (Hons) Visual Communication program offers a comprehensive curriculum that covers a wide range of topics essential for success in the field. Students study graphic design principles, typography, illustration techniques, branding strategies, digital media production, and communication theory. Through lectures, workshops, and studio sessions, students develop practical skills and theoretical knowledge that prepare them for diverse careers in visual communication.
2. Specialization Options: The program allows students to explore various specialization options within the field of visual communication, including graphic design, illustration, branding, advertising, and digital media. Students have the flexibility to tailor their studies to their interests and career goals, choosing elective modules and projects that align with their passion and expertise. This specialization enables students to develop a focused portfolio and establish themselves as experts in their chosen area of visual communication.
3. Hands-on Projects: A key feature of the program is its emphasis on hands-on projects and practical experience. Students have the opportunity to work on real-world briefs, client projects, and collaborative assignments that simulate professional design scenarios. They learn to develop creative concepts, execute design solutions, and communicate ideas effectively through visual media. These hands-on projects not only enhance students' technical skills but also prepare them for the demands of the industry.
4. Industry Engagement: UCA maintains strong connections with the creative industries, providing students with valuable opportunities for industry engagement. Through guest lectures, industry workshops, and studio visits, students gain insights into current trends, emerging technologies, and best practices in visual communication. Additionally, students have the chance to undertake internships or work placements during their professional practice year, allowing them to gain firsthand experience and build professional networks within the industry.
5. Professional Development: The program offers professional development opportunities to help students prepare for careers in visual communication. Students receive guidance on portfolio development, job search strategies, and self-promotion techniques. They also have access to career workshops, networking events, and alumni mentorship programs, which provide valuable insights and support as they transition from university to the workplace. By equipping students with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to succeed in the creative industries, UCA empowers them to pursue fulfilling and impactful careers in visual communication.
Location
Canterbury
Score
IELTS: 6
Tuition Fee
£ 17500
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications:The minimum percentage required for undergraduate courses at UCA is average percentage of 60% in HSC.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: The minimum required overall score is usually between 6.0, with a minimum score of 5.5 in each component.
- PTE Academic: The minimum required overall score is 59.
- TOEFL: The minimum required score is 80.
Students must provide:
- academic marksheets & transcripts
- letters of recommendation
- a personal statement - SOP
- passport
- other supporting documents as required by the university.
It is important to note that entry requirements may vary across different programs and courses. Additionally, meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as the number of available places and competition for certain courses.
The University for the Creative Arts (UCA) recognizes the importance of providing financial support to students pursuing their creative arts education. University for the Creative Arts offers a range of scholarships and funding opportunities to help students with the costs of tuition fees and living expenses.
Vice-Chancellor's Scholarships: University for the Creative Arts offers Vice-Chancellor's Scholarships to both undergraduate and postgraduate students. These scholarships are awarded based on academic excellence and are open to both domestic and international students. The scholarship amount varies and can contribute towards tuition fees or living expenses.
International Scholarships: University for the Creative Arts offers scholarships specifically designed for international students. These scholarships are available for both undergraduate and postgraduate studies. The eligibility criteria, application process, and scholarship amounts may vary.
University for the Creative Arts Creative Excellence Scholarships: These scholarships are awarded to students who demonstrate exceptional talent and creative potential in their chosen field of study. The Creative Excellence Scholarships are available for various disciplines within the creative arts, such as fine arts, design, fashion, media, and more.
External Scholarships and Funding: University for the Creative Arts encourages students to explore external scholarship opportunities and funding sources. There may be scholarships offered by government organizations, charitable foundations, or industry associations that are applicable to creative arts students. University for the Creative Arts provides guidance and support to help students identify and apply for external scholarships.
It is important to note that scholarship availability, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines may vary from year to year.
Graduates of the BA (Hons) Visual Communication with Professional Practice Year program at the University for the Creative Arts (UCA) are well-prepared to embark on diverse and rewarding career paths in the dynamic field of visual communication. Equipped with a comprehensive understanding of design principles, communication theory, and practical skills, graduates have the versatility to pursue roles in various sectors of the creative industries.
1. Graphic Designer: Graduates can pursue careers as graphic designers, working for design agencies, branding firms, advertising agencies, or in-house design teams. They create visual concepts and designs for a wide range of print and digital media, including logos, packaging, posters, websites, and social media graphics. Graphic designers collaborate with clients and creative directors to translate ideas into compelling visual solutions that effectively communicate messages and engage target audiences.
2. Illustrator: Graduates with strong illustration skills can work as illustrators, creating original artwork for editorial publications, advertising campaigns, children's books, product packaging, and digital media. They use a variety of traditional and digital techniques to bring ideas and concepts to life, conveying messages and narratives through visual storytelling. Illustrators may specialize in specific genres such as editorial illustration, character design, or concept art, catering to different industries and markets.
3. Branding Specialist: Graduates can specialize in branding and identity design, helping organizations develop and communicate their brand identity through visual elements such as logos, color palettes, typography, and brand guidelines. They work closely with clients to understand their brand values, target audience, and market positioning, creating cohesive and memorable brand identities that resonate with consumers and differentiate the brand in the marketplace.
4. Art Director: Graduates with strong leadership and creative vision can pursue careers as art directors, overseeing the visual aspects of creative projects and campaigns. They collaborate with clients, copywriters, photographers, and designers to develop concepts, set visual direction, and ensure that creative executions align with brand objectives and creative briefs. Art directors play a key role in shaping the visual identity and aesthetic of brands, publications, advertising campaigns, and digital experiences.
5. User Experience (UX) Designer: Graduates can specialize in user experience (UX) design, focusing on creating intuitive and user-friendly digital experiences for websites, mobile apps, and interactive media. They conduct user research, develop wireframes and prototypes, and design user interfaces that optimize usability, accessibility, and engagement. UX designers collaborate with cross-functional teams to create seamless and enjoyable digital experiences that meet user needs and business goals.
6. Motion Graphics Designer: Graduates with skills in animation and motion graphics can pursue careers as motion graphics designers, creating animated graphics and visual effects for film, television, advertising, and digital media. They use software such as Adobe After Effects and Cinema 4D to design and animate logos, titles, transitions, and special effects that enhance storytelling and captivate audiences. Motion graphics designers may work freelance, for design studios, or in-house for production companies or advertising agencies.
