MSc Accounting and Finance
Robert Gordon University (RGU) is a dynamic and innovative institution located in Aberd...
BA (Hons) Communication Design - Graphic Design, Illustration, Photography
Aberdeen
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The BA (Hons) Communication Design program at Robert Gordon University (RGU) offers a dynamic and interdisciplinary approach to graphic design, illustration, and photography. This undergraduate degree is designed to nurture students' creativity, technical skills, and critical thinking abilities, preparing them for diverse careers in the visual communication industry.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the BA (Hons) Communication Design program is structured to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of design principles, visual storytelling techniques, and digital tools used in graphic design, illustration, and photography. Students study core subjects such as typography, layout design, digital imaging, and visual communication theory. Additionally, they have the opportunity to specialize in areas such as graphic design, illustration, or photography, depending on their interests and career aspirations. The curriculum integrates studio-based learning with theoretical lectures, practical workshops, and industry projects, allowing students to develop a portfolio of creative work that showcases their skills and strengths.
Research Focus: RGU emphasizes research within the BA (Hons) Communication Design program, encouraging students to explore contemporary issues, trends, and innovations in the field of visual communication. Students have the opportunity to engage in research projects that investigate topics such as design trends, cultural influences, and emerging technologies shaping the design industry. Faculty members provide guidance and support to students as they conduct research, develop concepts, and refine their creative ideas. The university's research centers and collaborations with industry partners offer students access to resources, facilities, and expertise to undertake meaningful research initiatives that push the boundaries of design practice and theory.
Industry Engagement: The BA (Hons) Communication Design program at RGU promotes industry engagement to ensure graduates are well-prepared for careers in graphic design, illustration, photography, and related fields. The university collaborates with design agencies, advertising firms, publishing houses, and creative studios to offer students internships, placements, and real-world project opportunities. Through industry-led workshops, guest lectures, and portfolio reviews, students gain insights into industry best practices, emerging trends, and professional standards in visual communication. Industry placements provide students with hands-on experience, networking opportunities, and valuable feedback from industry professionals, helping them transition from academia to the workplace seamlessly.
Global Perspective: RGU fosters a global perspective within the BA (Hons) Communication Design program through international collaborations, study abroad opportunities, and exposure to global design trends and influences. Students have the opportunity to explore diverse cultural perspectives, aesthetic traditions, and design movements from around the world. The university's diverse student body and faculty contribute to a multicultural learning environment, exposing students to different design approaches and viewpoints. Study abroad programs and exchange opportunities further enrich the learning experience, allowing students to immerse themselves in different design cultures and expand their creative horizons.
Location
Aberdeen
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
£ 17670
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Students should have completed their secondary education with a minimum of 60% or equivalent in their country's grading system. The specific entry requirements may vary depending on the chosen program of study. Some programs may have additional subject-specific requirements.
English language proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.0 or 6.5 with no individual component below 5.5.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 80 on the TOEFL is accepted, with no sub-score in any section falling below 17.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 56 with no individual score below 51.
- Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
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 meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.
Robert Gordon University (RGU) in the United Kingdom is fostering a diverse and inclusive academic environment by offering a variety of scholarships to support international students pursuing their higher education. These scholarships aim to recognize academic excellence, encourage diversity, and provide financial assistance to students from around the world.
International Achievement Scholarship: The International Achievement Scholarship at RGU is designed to reward outstanding international students who have demonstrated academic excellence in their previous studies. This merit-based scholarship provides financial support towards tuition fees for undergraduate and postgraduate programs.
Vice-Chancellor's Undergraduate Scholarship: This prestigious scholarship is awarded to high-achieving international undergraduate students who have displayed exceptional academic performance. The Vice-Chancellor's Undergraduate Scholarship aims to attract top talents to RGU and assist them in achieving their educational goals.
RGU SPORT Scholarship: Recognizing the importance of sports and physical well-being, RGU offers the RGU SPORT Scholarship to international students who excel in sports. This scholarship supports athletes in balancing their academic and sporting commitments, promoting a holistic approach to student life.
Santander Scholarships: In collaboration with Santander Universities, RGU provides Santander Scholarships to international students. These scholarships aim to facilitate educational opportunities, cultural exchange, and global perspectives by supporting students in various academic disciplines.
Commonwealth Shared Scholarship Scheme: RGU participates in the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship Scheme, offering international students from eligible Commonwealth countries the chance to pursue master's level studies. This scheme covers tuition fees, travel, and living expenses, promoting access to higher education for students with limited financial means.
Graduates of the BA (Hons) Communication Design program at Robert Gordon University (RGU) possess a diverse skill set that opens up numerous career opportunities in the creative industries. With expertise in graphic design, illustration, and photography, graduates can pursue roles that allow them to showcase their creativity, technical proficiency, and visual storytelling abilities.
Graphic Designer: One of the primary career paths for graduates of the BA (Hons) Communication Design program is becoming a graphic designer. Graphic designers create visual concepts using computer software or by hand to communicate ideas that inspire, inform, and captivate consumers. They develop the overall layout and production design for various applications such as advertisements, brochures, magazines, and corporate reports. Graphic designers work for design agencies, advertising firms, publishing houses, or as freelancers, collaborating with clients to understand their needs and deliver visually compelling solutions that effectively convey messages and engage audiences.
Illustrator: Graduates may pursue careers as illustrators, specializing in creating visual representations of concepts, ideas, or narratives. Illustrators use their artistic skills to produce illustrations for books, magazines, advertisements, animations, and digital media. They work with various traditional and digital mediums, such as drawing, painting, digital illustration software, and 3D modeling tools, to bring stories and ideas to life visually. Illustrators may work independently as freelancers, contract with publishing houses, design agencies, or animation studios, contributing their unique style and creativity to projects across different industries and media platforms.
Photographer: Another career option for BA (Hons) Communication Design graduates is working as a photographer. Photographers capture images that tell stories, evoke emotions, and communicate messages through the lens of a camera. They specialize in various genres of photography, such as portrait, landscape, commercial, fashion, or documentary photography. Photographers work in diverse settings, including studios, events, photojournalism assignments, or on-location shoots. They may specialize in specific niches, such as wedding photography, product photography, or architectural photography, depending on their interests and skills. Photographers may work independently as freelancers or contract with media companies, advertising agencies, or publishing houses, creating visual content that resonates with audiences and meets clients' needs.
Art Director: Graduates with experience in communication design may pursue careers as art directors, responsible for overseeing the visual aspects of creative projects and campaigns. Art directors conceptualize and develop visual concepts, styles, and themes for various media, ensuring consistency and quality across all design elements. They collaborate with creative teams, including graphic designers, illustrators, photographers, and copywriters, to execute creative vision and deliver impactful visual communication solutions. Art directors work in advertising agencies, design studios, publishing houses, or corporate marketing departments, leading creative teams and driving projects from concept to completion.
Creative Director: Some graduates aspire to become creative directors, assuming leadership roles in creative agencies or design studios. Creative directors are responsible for setting the creative direction and vision for projects, campaigns, or brands, overseeing the work of creative teams, and ensuring alignment with clients' objectives and brand guidelines. They provide strategic guidance, mentorship, and feedback to creative teams, fostering a collaborative and innovative work environment. Creative directors work closely with clients, account managers, and other stakeholders to develop creative solutions that meet business goals and exceed expectations. They may work in advertising agencies, design firms, digital agencies, or start-ups, shaping brand identities and delivering memorable creative experiences.
