MSc Counselling and Psychotherapy
The MSc Counselling and Psychotherapy program at London Metropolitan University is desi...
MA Visual Communication: Graphic Design
Aldgate
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The MA in Visual Communication: Graphic Design at London Metropolitan University is a postgraduate course designed for those aiming to deepen their knowledge and skills in graphic design while exploring its broader social, cultural, and technological contexts. This program provides students with the opportunity to refine their design practice through a balance of theoretical understanding and practical application. It prepares graduates to be innovative designers, equipped with the creative, technical, and critical skills necessary to succeed in a rapidly evolving industry.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the MA Visual Communication: Graphic Design is structured to offer both foundational and advanced learning in key areas such as typography, branding, digital media, and interactive design. The course is delivered through a combination of lectures, seminars, workshops, and independent study. Core modules include design history, theory, and practice, while electives allow students to specialize in areas such as motion graphics or design for social change. The program emphasizes critical thinking, encouraging students to challenge traditional approaches to design and explore new media and technologies. The course culminates in a major project, where students apply their skills and knowledge to a self-directed design project, culminating in a final portfolio of work.
Research Focus: The MA in Visual Communication: Graphic Design at London Met places a strong emphasis on research and its application in design practice. Students are encouraged to engage with both academic and professional research, exploring contemporary design issues, cultural theory, and the intersection of design with other disciplines such as technology, sociology, and psychology. Research methods are integrated throughout the program, allowing students to develop a critical understanding of how visual communication influences and is influenced by societal trends and technological developments.
Industry Engagement: London Metropolitan University prides itself on its strong links with industry, offering students a wealth of opportunities for collaboration with real-world clients. The program incorporates guest lectures, workshops, and mentorship from industry professionals, allowing students to gain practical insights into the demands and trends of the graphic design sector. Moreover, students are encouraged to undertake internships and work placements as part of their studies, providing them with hands-on experience and enhancing their employability upon graduation. The university's central London location further strengthens its connection to the creative industries, providing students with access to a vibrant design community.
Global Perspective: The MA in Visual Communication: Graphic Design at London Metropolitan University attracts students from across the globe, providing a diverse and international learning environment. This global perspective enriches the program, as students bring different cultural backgrounds and experiences to their design practice. The course also incorporates case studies and examples from global design practices, helping students develop a broader understanding of how graphic design operates in various cultural and economic contexts. Students are encouraged to think beyond local design challenges and consider how their work can have a global impact, particularly in the areas of sustainability, ethics, and digital innovation.
Location
Aldgate
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
£ 20000
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution with a minimum overall score of 60% or equivalent.
English language proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5 or 7.0 with no individual component below 6.0.
- TOEFL: A minimum overall score of 72.
- PTE Academic: A minimum overall score of 59.
- Some postgraduate programs may have specific subject prerequisites or additional requirements.
London Metropolitan University offers a variety of scholarships and financial support options designed to assist international students with the cost of tuition fees and living expenses while studying in the UK. These scholarships aim to support talented students, regardless of their financial background, and encourage diversity in the university’s student body.
International Scholarship: London Metropolitan University provides an International Scholarship for non-UK students who are enrolled in full-time undergraduate or postgraduate programs. This scholarship is designed to help reduce the cost of tuition fees and make studying at the university more affordable. The scholarship amount varies depending on the program and student eligibility, typically covering a partial reduction of tuition fees. The scholarship is awarded based on academic merit, and students are assessed upon application for the program.
Postgraduate International Scholarships: International students applying for postgraduate courses at London Metropolitan University may be eligible for specific Postgraduate International Scholarships. These scholarships are aimed at high-achieving students and are available for a range of master’s degree programs. The scholarships provide a discount on tuition fees for international students and are typically awarded based on the applicant’s academic performance, relevant qualifications, and professional experience.
Regional Scholarships: To encourage students from diverse regions to study at London Metropolitan University, the university offers Regional Scholarships. These scholarships are designed to attract students from specific countries or regions, including Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. The scholarships are often based on merit and financial need and offer varying amounts of financial assistance to help cover the costs of tuition fees.
Alumni Scholarships: For international students who are graduates of partner institutions, the Alumni Scholarship offers financial support for those seeking to pursue postgraduate studies at London Metropolitan University. This scholarship is typically offered as a fee reduction for alumni who wish to continue their education at the university. The goal of this scholarship is to foster long-term relationships between the university and its international partners while providing continued academic opportunities for its alumni.
External Scholarships and Financial Aid: In addition to university-specific scholarships, international students can explore external scholarships offered by organizations, government bodies, and foundations. Some notable external scholarships include those offered by the British Council, Chevening Scholarships, and Commonwealth Scholarships, which provide significant funding to international students pursuing higher education in the UK. London Metropolitan University encourages its international students to apply for these prestigious scholarships in addition to institutional funding opportunities.
The MA in Visual Communication: Graphic Design at London Metropolitan University is a dynamic program that provides students with the skills and expertise needed to excel in the fast-paced and ever-evolving field of graphic design. This advanced course prepares graduates for a variety of careers across creative industries, enabling them to work in diverse roles that require a deep understanding of visual communication, design principles, and innovative technologies. The program combines theory with practice, fostering creativity and developing technical proficiency, making graduates highly attractive to employers in the global design industry.
Graphic Designer: Graduates can work as graphic designers, where they are responsible for creating visual concepts, designs, and layouts for a wide range of media, including print, digital, and advertising. They may design marketing materials, websites, product packaging, corporate branding, and more. Graphic designers often collaborate with clients, marketing teams, and other creatives to develop compelling visual content that communicates key messages effectively. With expertise in typography, color theory, and visual composition, graduates can work across various sectors, including media, fashion, advertising, publishing, and corporate branding.
Creative Director: As a creative director, graduates oversee the visual and artistic direction of design projects, guiding and inspiring design teams to produce innovative and high-quality work. Creative directors work in a variety of industries, including advertising agencies, design studios, and media companies. They ensure that the creative output aligns with brand identity, client goals, and marketing strategies. In this role, graduates will lead the design process, manage client relationships, and provide strategic direction for visual campaigns, while also managing budgets and timelines.
Brand Identity Designer: Brand identity designers specialize in creating the visual aspects of a brand, such as logos, color palettes, typography, and graphic elements that help define a brand's image and messaging. Graduates can work with businesses, marketing teams, and design agencies to create a cohesive and memorable brand identity that resonates with target audiences. This career path involves designing everything from logos to packaging, social media graphics, and brand guidelines to ensure a consistent and powerful brand presence.
User Interface (UI) Designer: UI designers focus on designing the visual components of digital interfaces, ensuring that websites, mobile apps, and software are visually appealing, functional, and user-friendly. This career path requires a deep understanding of design principles as well as usability and interaction design. UI designers work closely with UX designers, web developers, and product managers to create intuitive, visually engaging digital experiences that enhance user satisfaction and usability. Graduates with an interest in technology and design may find this career path particularly appealing.
Web Designer: Graduates can also pursue careers as web designers, where they create the visual layout, design elements, and user interfaces of websites. Web designers use a combination of graphic design skills and coding knowledge (e.g., HTML, CSS) to create visually engaging and functional websites. Web designers need to understand the balance between aesthetics and usability to create websites that are both visually compelling and easy to navigate.
Motion Graphics Designer: For those with an interest in animation and video, a career in motion graphics design offers opportunities to work on dynamic and creative projects, such as advertisements, movie credits, online content, and interactive media. Motion graphics designers use animation software and design principles to create moving visuals, sound, and video content that communicates messages in an engaging and impactful way. Graduates may work in advertising agencies, film production, gaming, or digital media companies.
Packaging Designer: Packaging design is a specialized field where graduates create visually appealing and functional packaging for products. This role involves considering factors like product branding, materials, sustainability, and user experience while ensuring that the packaging stands out on store shelves. Packaging designers work for manufacturing companies, design firms, or as freelancers, developing packaging for food and beverage products, cosmetics, electronics, and more.
Art Director: Art directors oversee the visual aspects of advertisements, magazines, websites, and other creative projects. They work closely with graphic designers, photographers, and copywriters to ensure that the final product meets creative goals and client expectations. Art directors are responsible for the overall visual style and cohesion of a project and are key to ensuring the design aligns with brand identity and messaging. Graduates can work in advertising, media, publishing, and design agencies.
Freelance Graphic Designer: Many graduates of the MA Visual Communication: Graphic Design program opt to pursue freelance careers, where they can work independently on a wide variety of design projects. Freelance graphic designers may work with individuals, small businesses, or large corporations, offering services such as logo design, website design, branding, and marketing materials. Freelancing allows for flexibility, creative freedom, and the opportunity to build a diverse portfolio while working with clients from different industries.
Design Consultant: Design consultants offer expert advice and creative direction to businesses, helping them solve design challenges and improve their visual communications. Consultants often work with companies to develop new brand identities, create marketing strategies, or enhance user experiences across digital and print platforms. Graduates with a strong business acumen and design expertise may find this role appealing, as it allows them to leverage their creative skills while working strategically with clients.
Print Designer: Print designers specialize in designing for printed materials, such as brochures, flyers, posters, magazines, and books. They ensure that the final product is not only visually appealing but also functional for the intended audience. This career path requires expertise in print production processes, typography, and layout design. Print designers often work in design agencies, publishing houses, or as independent consultants.
Educational or Training Roles: Graduates with a passion for teaching can also explore careers in academia, becoming lecturers or educators in graphic design or related fields. They may teach design principles, software skills, and creative processes to students at various levels. Additionally, they may contribute to workshops or provide professional training to companies seeking to enhance their in-house design capabilities.
