BA (Hons) Graphic Design and Illustration

Program Overview

The BA (Hons) Graphic Design and Illustration program provides a comprehensive and integrated approach to visual communication, encouraging students to explore the synergy between strategic design thinking and imaginative image creation. It emphasizes a hands-on, project-based learning environment where students develop both conceptual and technical skills. The program fosters individual creative voice while equipping students with the practical abilities demanded by the professional design and illustration landscape. Through a combination of studio practice, workshops, tutorials, lectures, and critiques, students learn to communicate effectively through visual means across various media.

Curriculum: The curriculum is structured to provide a progressive learning experience, starting with foundational modules that introduce core principles of visual language, typography, color theory, composition, and basic techniques in both graphic design (layout, branding) and illustration (drawing, digital painting). Students then advance to more specialized modules that allow for greater focus in chosen areas, such as advanced typography, branding and identity systems, web design and UX principles, editorial illustration, narrative illustration, motion graphics, and visual communication theory. The program encourages students to explore the relationship between design and illustration, fostering a versatile approach to visual problem-solving. A significant component involves individual and collaborative projects, the development of a strong portfolio showcasing work in both disciplines, and engagement with industry-standard software such as Adobe Creative Suite. Students also learn about the historical and contemporary contexts of graphic design and illustration.

Research Focus: The University of Worcester fosters a research-informed teaching environment within its School of Arts and Creative Industries, which directly benefits the BA (Hons) Graphic Design and Illustration program. Faculty members are actively engaged in research across various areas of graphic design history and theory, illustration practice and theory, visual communication, and digital media. Students benefit from being taught by academics who are actively contributing to their fields and may have opportunities to engage with research through their studies and final-year projects or portfolios. The program aims to cultivate a research-oriented mindset, encouraging students to critically analyze visual communication, explore new design and illustration techniques, and understand the evolving landscape of the creative industries.

Industry Engagement: The BA (Hons) Graphic Design and Illustration program places a strong emphasis on preparing students for successful careers in the competitive creative industries. The curriculum often incorporates guest lectures from practicing graphic designers, illustrators, creative directors, and industry professionals. The University of Worcester actively seeks to build and maintain strong links with local, regional, and national design studios, advertising agencies, publishing houses, and creative businesses. This engagement may include opportunities for workshops, portfolio reviews, competitions, and potential internships or work placements, providing students with valuable practical experience and industry connections. The aim is to ensure that graduates possess the skills, knowledge, and professional networks that are highly valued by employers in the diverse graphic design and illustration sectors.

Global Perspective: The University of Worcester welcomes a diverse international student body, enriching the learning experience within the BA (Hons) Graphic Design and Illustration program. Graphic design and illustration are global languages, with diverse visual styles and cultural influences shaping communication across borders. The program encourages students to explore a wide range of international design and illustration trends, understand different cultural approaches to visual communication, and consider the global marketplace for creative talent. Discussions and projects often incorporate international examples, and students have opportunities to interact with peers from various cultural backgrounds, fostering a global perspective essential for navigating the interconnected world of visual communication.