MSc Accounting and Finance
The MSc Accounting and Finance course at the University of Northampton offers a compreh...
BA (Hons) Graphic Communication Design
Waterside
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The BA (Hons) Graphic Communication Design program at the University of Northampton, UK, is designed to equip students with the creative skills, technical expertise, and theoretical knowledge needed to succeed in the dynamic field of graphic design. This undergraduate degree combines traditional design principles with contemporary digital technologies, preparing students for careers in advertising, branding, digital media, publishing, and more.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the BA (Hons) Graphic Communication Design program covers a wide range of topics relevant to the field of graphic design. Students study fundamental design principles such as typography, layout, composition, color theory, and visual storytelling, as well as advanced topics such as branding, packaging design, motion graphics, and interactive media. They also learn how to use industry-standard software tools such as Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, and After Effects to create impactful visual communication solutions across various platforms and mediums. The curriculum may include studio-based projects, design workshops, and collaborative exercises to develop students' creative thinking, problem-solving, and project management skills.
Research Focus: The University of Northampton emphasizes a research-focused approach within its BA (Hons) Graphic Communication Design program, encouraging students to explore conceptual ideas, historical influences, and contemporary trends in graphic design. Students have the opportunity to conduct research projects on topics such as design theory, visual culture, user experience (UX) design, and social impact design. They may analyze case studies, study influential designers, and investigate emerging technologies and design methodologies to inform their creative practice and develop their own design philosophy.
Industry Engagement: The BA (Hons) Graphic Communication Design program promotes industry engagement through various initiatives aimed at connecting students with professionals and practitioners in the field of graphic design. Students have the opportunity to participate in industry-led workshops, guest lectures, and design conferences, where they can learn from experienced designers, creative directors, and design agencies. The university also collaborates with industry partners to provide students with internship opportunities, work placements, and live projects, allowing them to gain practical experience, build professional networks, and showcase their talent to potential employers in the design industry.
Global Perspective: The University of Northampton encourages a global perspective within its BA (Hons) Graphic Communication Design program, recognizing the diverse cultural influences, design traditions, and market dynamics shaping the global design landscape. Students have the opportunity to explore international design trends, study design movements from different regions and historical periods, and engage with design projects with a global scope. The university may offer study abroad programs, international design competitions, or collaborations with design studios and universities around the world to expose students to diverse design perspectives, cross-cultural collaborations, and opportunities for professional growth in a globalized design industry.
Location
Waterside
Score
IELTS 6
Tuition Fee
£ 14750
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: International students applying for undergraduate programs at the University of Northampton are typically required to have a minimum academic achievement of 60% or above in their secondary school or equivalent qualifications.
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 70, with at least 17 in Listening, Reading, Speaking, and Writing.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 65 with no individual score below 59.
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.
The University of Northampton offers various scholarships and financial aid opportunities to support international students in their academic journey. These scholarships aim to recognize outstanding academic achievements, promote diversity, and provide assistance to those who may face financial constraints.
International Scholarships: The university offers a range of international scholarships specifically designed for international students. These scholarships are merit-based and provide partial tuition fee waivers. The eligibility criteria, award amounts, and application processes may vary.
Chancellor's Scholarships: The Chancellor's Scholarships are prestigious awards offered to high-achieving international students who demonstrate exceptional academic performance and potential. These scholarships provide a significant reduction in tuition fees and are highly competitive. Eligible students are automatically considered for this scholarship based on their application for admission.
Country-Specific Scholarships: The University of Northampton also offers scholarships specifically tailored to students from certain countries or regions. These scholarships may be in partnership with governments, organizations, or educational institutions from those countries. The eligibility criteria, application process, and award amounts may vary depending on the specific scholarship.
Subject-Specific Scholarships: Some academic departments at the university may offer subject-specific scholarships to international students. These scholarships are typically based on academic excellence in a particular field of study. Students pursuing specific courses or disciplines may be eligible for these scholarships.
External Scholarships and Funding: In addition to the university's own scholarships, international students can also explore external funding options, such as government scholarships, corporate sponsorships, and charitable organizations. The university's international office or scholarship team can provide guidance and information on external funding opportunities available to international students.
It is important to note that scholarship availability, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines may change from year to year.
Graduates of the BA (Hons) Graphic Communication Design program at the University of Northampton, UK, possess a diverse skill set and theoretical knowledge in graphic design, preparing them for various career opportunities in the creative industry.
Graphic Designer: Graduates can work as graphic designers, creating visual concepts and designs for a wide range of print and digital media. They may specialize in areas such as branding, advertising, editorial design, packaging design, web design, or motion graphics, collaborating with clients, art directors, and marketing teams to communicate messages effectively through visual elements.
Art Director: Graduates with experience and leadership skills can pursue careers as art directors, overseeing the visual direction and creative output of design projects. They may manage design teams, develop creative concepts, and ensure the cohesive execution of visual branding across multiple platforms and campaigns, working in advertising agencies, design studios, or in-house creative departments.
UI/UX Designer: Graduates can work as user interface (UI) or user experience (UX) designers, focusing on the design of digital interfaces and interactive experiences. They may design intuitive and visually appealing interfaces for websites, mobile apps, and software applications, conducting user research, prototyping, and usability testing to optimize the user experience and enhance user satisfaction.
Brand Identity Designer: Graduates can specialize in brand identity design, creating distinctive visual identities, logos, and brand guidelines for businesses and organizations. They may develop brand strategies, conduct market research, and design visual elements that convey the brand's values, personality, and positioning across various touchpoints, helping to build strong and memorable brand identities.
Packaging Designer: Graduates can work as packaging designers, creating packaging solutions that attract consumers' attention, communicate product information, and reinforce brand identity. They may design packaging for consumer products, food and beverages, cosmetics, or pharmaceuticals, considering factors such as functionality, sustainability, and shelf appeal to create packaging designs that stand out in the market.
Illustrator: Graduates with strong drawing and illustration skills can pursue careers as illustrators, creating original artwork for books, magazines, advertising campaigns, and digital media. They may specialize in areas such as editorial illustration, children's illustration, concept art, or character design, using traditional and digital techniques to bring ideas and stories to life through visual storytelling.
Motion Graphics Designer: Graduates can specialize in motion graphics, creating animated visual content for film, television, advertising, and digital media. They may design motion graphics for title sequences, commercials, explainer videos, or social media content, using animation software such as Adobe After Effects or Cinema 4D to create dynamic and engaging visual experiences.
Web Designer/Developer: Graduates can work as web designers or developers, designing and building visually appealing and functional websites for individuals, businesses, or organizations. They may collaborate with clients or development teams to create responsive web designs, user-friendly interfaces, and interactive features that enhance the online presence and user experience of websites.
Freelance Designer/Entrepreneur: Graduates can work as freelance designers or entrepreneurs, offering their services as independent contractors to clients or starting their own design businesses. They may specialize in niche areas of graphic design, such as lettering, surface pattern design, or infographics, and build a portfolio of work through freelance projects, commissions, and self-initiated creative ventures.
Educator/Instructor: Graduates with a passion for teaching and mentoring can pursue careers as educators or instructors, teaching graphic design courses at schools, colleges, or universities. They may share their expertise, industry insights, and creative techniques with the next generation of designers, fostering creativity, critical thinking, and technical skills in aspiring graphic designers.
