BA Visual Communications and Design

The BA Visual Communications and Design program at South East Technological University (SETU) in Ireland is a dynamic undergraduate degree focused on nurturing creative talents and preparing students for diverse careers in visual communication and design. This program provides students with a comprehensive understanding of design principles, visual aesthetics, and communication strategies across various media platforms.

Curriculum: The curriculum of the BA Visual Communications and Design program at SETU is carefully crafted to provide students with a solid foundation in design theory and practice. Courses cover a wide range of topics, including graphic design, typography, illustration, digital media, branding, and user experience design. Students engage in hands-on projects, workshops, and studio-based learning experiences, allowing them to develop their creative skills and build a professional portfolio.

Research Focus: SETU fosters a culture of research and innovation in visual communication and design. Faculty members are actively involved in research projects exploring emerging trends, technologies, and methodologies in the field. Students have opportunities to participate in research initiatives, collaborate with faculty on projects, and explore their own research interests through independent studies and capstone projects.

Industry Engagement: The BA Visual Communications and Design program at SETU is closely aligned with industry needs and standards. The university collaborates with design studios, advertising agencies, media companies, and creative enterprises to offer industry placements, internships, and guest lectures. Through these industry engagements, students gain real-world experience, build professional networks, and gain insights into industry practices and expectations.

Global Perspective: SETU recognizes the importance of a global perspective in visual communication and design. The program incorporates international design trends, cultural influences, and case studies into its curriculum. Students have opportunities to participate in international design competitions, study abroad programs, and exchange initiatives, gaining exposure to diverse cultural contexts and expanding their understanding of global design practices.

Undergraduate Entry Requirements 

Application Fee: € 50

Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 70% or above in their previous academic qualifications.

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: Overall band score of 6.0 or 6.5 with a minimum of 5.5 in each component.
• TOEFL: Overall score of 79 with a minimum of 17 in each section.
• PTE: Overall score of 57 with a minimum of 50 in each section.
• DET: Overall score of 90.

Students must provide:

• academic marksheets & transcripts
• letters of recommendation
• a personal statement - SOP
• passport
• other supporting documents as required by the university.

It's important to note that entry requirements can vary by program and may change over time. Additionally, some programs may have additional requirements, such as interviews, portfolios, or work experience.

South East Technological University offers a range of scholarships tailored to support and recognize the academic achievements of international students. These scholarships aim to facilitate access to high-quality education and contribute to the university's diverse and dynamic learning environment. 

International Merit Scholarships: These scholarships are designed to reward outstanding academic performance. They are available for both undergraduate and postgraduate students and can significantly offset tuition costs.

Research Scholarships: South East Technological University encourages international students to engage in groundbreaking research. Research scholarships may be available to assist students in various research projects, contributing to advancements in their respective fields.

Diversity Scholarships: The university recognizes the value of a diverse and inclusive student body. Diversity scholarships aim to support students from a range of backgrounds and promote multiculturalism within the university community.

Excellence in Sports Scholarships: For international students with exceptional sporting talents, excellence in sports scholarships may be an option. These scholarships recognize and support student-athletes in their pursuit of academic and athletic success.

Exchange Program Scholarships: South East Technological University encourages international exchange programs to promote cross-cultural understanding. Scholarships may be available for students participating in exchange programs with partner institutions.

Industry-Specific Scholarships: Some scholarships are designed for students pursuing specific fields of study, such as STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) disciplines, arts, or business. These scholarships may be provided in collaboration with industry partners.

Community Engagement Scholarships: The university values community involvement and engagement. Scholarships may be awarded to students who actively contribute to the local community through volunteer work and civic participation.

Graduates of South East Technological University's BA Visual Communications and Design program have diverse career opportunities in the creative industry.

Graphic Designer: Graphic designers create visual concepts using computer software or by hand to communicate ideas that inspire, inform, or captivate consumers. They develop the overall layout and production design for various applications such as advertisements, brochures, magazines, and corporate reports.

UI/UX Designer: UI/UX designers focus on enhancing user satisfaction by improving the usability, accessibility, and overall interaction between users and digital products. They design user interfaces for websites, mobile apps, and other digital platforms, ensuring a seamless and intuitive user experience.

Art Director: Art directors are responsible for the visual style and imagery in print, film, and digital media. They oversee the design and production of visual materials, such as advertising campaigns, magazines, websites, and branding initiatives, ensuring they align with the client's objectives and brand identity.

Illustrator: Illustrators create visual representations and interpretations of concepts, ideas, and stories. They work in various mediums, including digital illustration, traditional drawing, and mixed media, to produce illustrations for books, magazines, advertisements, and multimedia projects.

Brand Identity Designer: Brand identity designers develop visual identities and branding strategies for organizations, products, and services. They design logos, typography, color palettes, and brand guidelines to establish and maintain a cohesive and recognizable brand image across all channels.

Multimedia Designer: Multimedia designers create engaging and interactive multimedia content for websites, mobile apps, e-learning platforms, and presentations. They combine elements such as text, graphics, audio, video, and animation to communicate information effectively and engage audiences.

Packaging Designer: Packaging designers specialize in creating attractive and functional packaging solutions for products. They design packaging graphics, labels, and structural packaging elements that enhance brand visibility, convey product information, and attract consumers.

Advertising Creative: Advertising creatives develop concepts and ideas for advertising campaigns across various media channels, including print, digital, television, radio, and outdoor. They collaborate with copywriters, art directors, and clients to create compelling and memorable advertising messages.

Motion Graphics Designer: Motion graphics designers create animated visuals and effects for film, television, video games, and digital media. They use animation software to design and produce motion graphics, title sequences, visual effects, and animated advertisements.