MA English Literature
The MA in English Literature at the University of Reading offers a comprehensive and im...
BA Graphic Communication
Reading
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The BA Graphic Communication program at the University of Reading offers students the opportunity to develop a diverse range of skills in graphic design, visual communication, and digital media. The program is designed to nurture creativity while equipping students with the technical proficiency needed to work in the rapidly evolving field of graphic design. It combines practical design skills with theoretical knowledge, preparing graduates for various roles in the design industry. This course provides a comprehensive education, focusing on visual storytelling, branding, typography, digital media, and interactive design.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the BA Graphic Communication program is carefully structured to provide students with both foundational knowledge and specialized skills in the world of graphic design. In the early years, students focus on core modules such as design theory, typography, color theory, and visual communication. As students progress, they engage in more advanced topics like motion graphics, user experience (UX) design, interactive media, branding, and digital illustration. The program also incorporates hands-on projects and collaborative work, encouraging students to think critically and develop innovative solutions to design problems. The curriculum emphasizes both traditional design techniques and the latest digital tools, ensuring that students are prepared for the dynamic design industry.
Research Focus: The University of Reading's BA Graphic Communication program benefits from a strong research culture within the Department of Typography & Graphic Communication. The research focuses on exploring the relationship between design, technology, and society. Students are encouraged to engage with research projects, which examine topics such as the impact of visual communication on consumer behavior, the evolution of digital design, and the role of graphic design in culture and identity. This research-oriented approach ensures that students stay informed about the latest trends and developments in the field of graphic design and are encouraged to contribute to the broader academic discourse. The University of Reading’s reputation for research excellence in graphic design provides students with a stimulating environment to develop their creative and intellectual abilities.
Industry Engagement: The BA Graphic Communication program at the University of Reading fosters strong links with the design industry, providing students with opportunities to gain real-world experience and build professional networks. Industry engagement is embedded into the curriculum through collaborations with leading design firms, design briefs from industry partners, and guest lectures from professionals in the field. Students also have access to internships, work placements, and live project opportunities, giving them the chance to apply their skills in a professional setting. The University’s industry partnerships and its involvement in design events and exhibitions provide students with valuable insights into the working world of graphic design. These connections enhance students' employability and ensure they are well-prepared to enter the design industry upon graduation.
Global Perspective: The BA Graphic Communication program at the University of Reading emphasizes the global nature of design and its impact on culture, communication, and technology. Students are encouraged to explore design from an international perspective, understanding how cultural and social contexts influence graphic design practices worldwide. The program incorporates global case studies, international design trends, and collaborative projects with international institutions. Students also have the opportunity to participate in exchange programs and attend global design conferences, ensuring that they are exposed to diverse perspectives and emerging global trends in graphic communication. This global outlook equips graduates with the skills needed to work in a variety of international design contexts and prepares them for careers in the global design market.
Location
Reading
Score
IELTS 7
Tuition Fee
£ 25250
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education with a minimum overall score of 70% or equivalent in their respective country's grading system.
English language proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 7.0 with no individual component below 6.0.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 100.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 76.
- DET Academic: A minimum overall score of 135.
- Some programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
The University of Reading offers a variety of scholarships for international students to support academic excellence and financial needs.
Vice-Chancellor Global Scholarship Award: Merit-based scholarship for high-achieving international students. Covers partial tuition fees for undergraduate and postgraduate programs.
Subject-Specific Scholarships: Offered by individual departments based on academic excellence and course selection. Examples include scholarships in Business, Law, Agriculture, and Science.
Chevening Scholarships: A UK government-funded scholarship for outstanding students from eligible countries. Covers tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs.
Country-Specific Scholarships: Scholarships tailored for students from specific countries, including India, China, and the USA. Criteria vary based on nationality and academic performance.
The BA Graphic Communication program at the University of Reading equips students with the skills, knowledge, and creative abilities necessary for a wide range of careers in the graphic design and visual communication industries. With a focus on both traditional design principles and emerging digital media technologies, graduates are prepared to tackle diverse challenges in the design world. The program’s blend of creative exploration, technical expertise, and professional industry engagement ensures that students are ready to pursue successful careers in various sectors, including advertising, branding, digital media, and more.
Graphic Designer: One of the most common career paths for graduates of the BA Graphic Communication program is that of a graphic designer. Graphic designers work in a variety of industries, creating visual concepts, designs, and layouts for digital and print media. They are responsible for designing marketing materials, websites, logos, packaging, and advertising campaigns. The program's comprehensive curriculum, which includes typography, color theory, and digital design techniques, provides graduates with the foundational skills needed to succeed in this field. With the rapid expansion of digital media, graphic designers also work with social media, digital advertisements, and other online platforms.
Branding Specialist: Graduates of the BA Graphic Communication program often find roles as branding specialists, where they work with companies to develop and maintain brand identities. This involves creating visual elements such as logos, color palettes, and design systems that reflect the brand’s values and connect with target audiences. Branding specialists also manage brand strategies, ensuring that visual communication is consistent across all touchpoints. Given the program's emphasis on design theory and branding, graduates are well-equipped to handle the challenges of building strong and compelling brand identities.
Web and User Interface (UI) Designer: With the growing importance of digital experiences, many graduates of the BA Graphic Communication program pursue careers as web and UI designers. These professionals design user interfaces for websites and mobile applications, ensuring that they are visually appealing, easy to navigate, and functional. The program's focus on interactive design, digital tools, and user experience (UX) principles makes it an excellent foundation for pursuing a career in web design and UI development. Graduates are equipped to create aesthetically pleasing yet user-centered designs for a variety of digital platforms.
Motion Graphics Designer: Motion graphics design is a rapidly growing field that involves creating animated visuals for television, films, video games, advertisements, and digital content. Graduates from the BA Graphic Communication program with an interest in animation and digital media can pursue careers as motion graphics designers. These professionals create dynamic visuals, combining graphic design, animation, and video production skills. The program’s modules on motion graphics and digital design allow students to develop the necessary technical and creative expertise to succeed in this exciting field.
Illustrator: Many graduates of the program go on to become professional illustrators, working in a variety of fields such as publishing, advertising, fashion, and entertainment. Illustrators create custom artwork and illustrations for a range of media, from books and magazines to advertisements and packaging. The BA Graphic Communication program offers students opportunities to explore digital illustration techniques, as well as traditional hand-drawn methods, allowing them to develop their own unique artistic style. Graduates can work as freelance illustrators or within design agencies, publishing houses, or media companies.
Creative Director: For those with leadership and project management aspirations, becoming a creative director is a popular career choice. Creative directors oversee the visual elements of marketing campaigns, advertisements, and branding projects. They lead design teams, ensuring that the creative vision aligns with the client's goals and business objectives. Graduates of the BA Graphic Communication program with experience in team collaboration, conceptualization, and design strategy are well-prepared to take on such leadership roles in design agencies, marketing firms, or corporate design departments.
Advertising Designer: Advertising designers work in the advertising industry, creating visuals for print, digital, and broadcast media to communicate brand messages effectively. This career option involves designing eye-catching advertisements for billboards, magazines, online ads, and TV commercials. The BA Graphic Communication program's emphasis on visual communication and advertising theory prepares students to succeed in this highly competitive field. Graduates with an interest in marketing and advertising can leverage their design skills to create compelling and effective ad campaigns for major brands.
Digital Media Specialist: A digital media specialist is responsible for creating and managing digital content across various platforms, including websites, social media, and online ads. This career combines elements of graphic design, social media strategy, and digital marketing. Graduates from the BA Graphic Communication program are well-equipped to enter the digital media sector, where they can design engaging content for social media channels, websites, and online publications. The program's focus on interactive design, digital tools, and media strategies ensures that graduates have the skills to excel in this fast-paced and evolving industry.
Editorial Designer: Editorial designers are responsible for the layout, typography, and visual style of publications such as magazines, newspapers, and online media. They collaborate with writers and editors to create visually compelling and readable content. Graduates of the BA Graphic Communication program with an interest in publishing and media can pursue a career in editorial design. With a focus on typography, layout, and visual storytelling, graduates are equipped to design engaging and aesthetically pleasing editorial content for print and digital platforms.
Freelance Designer: Many graduates of the BA Graphic Communication program choose to work as freelance designers, offering their skills and services to a variety of clients. Freelancers can work on a wide range of projects, including branding, web design, illustration, packaging, and advertising. This career path provides flexibility, allowing designers to choose their own projects and clients. The program’s emphasis on industry engagement, along with opportunities to build a portfolio of work, gives freelance designers the experience and confidence needed to succeed independently.
