BA (Hons) Graphic Design

Program Overview

The BA (Hons) Graphic Design program provides a rigorous and engaging learning environment where students develop both conceptual and practical design skills. It emphasizes a hands-on, project-based approach, allowing students to tackle real-world design challenges and build a strong portfolio. The program encourages students to develop their individual design voice while mastering the fundamental principles and processes of effective visual communication. Through a combination of studio practice, workshops, tutorials, lectures, and critiques, students learn to create impactful and meaningful design solutions across diverse 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 fundamental graphic design techniques. Students then advance to more specialized modules focusing on branding and identity systems, web design and UX principles, mobile app design, information design, packaging design, motion graphics, and design for social change. The program emphasizes the integration of design thinking, strategic planning, and creative execution. A significant component involves individual and collaborative projects, the development of a professional portfolio showcasing a range of design solutions, and mastery of industry-standard software such as Adobe Creative Suite. Students also learn about the history and theory of graphic design and its impact on society.

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 program. Faculty members are actively engaged in research across various areas of graphic design history and theory, visual communication, typography, 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 design trends, explore new technologies and methodologies, and understand the evolving landscape of the graphic design profession.

Industry Engagement: The BA (Hons) Graphic Design program places a strong emphasis on preparing students for successful careers in the competitive design industries. The curriculum often incorporates guest lectures from practicing graphic designers, 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, 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 sector.

Global Perspective: The University of Worcester welcomes a diverse international student body, enriching the learning experience within the BA (Hons) Graphic Design program. Graphic design is a global language, with diverse visual styles and cultural influences shaping communication across borders. The program encourages students to explore a wide range of international design trends, understand different cultural approaches to visual communication, and consider the global marketplace for design 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 graphic design.