Graphic Design | 4 Year

Course content - 2017 entry

• Year 0
• Year 1
• Year 2
• Year 3

Year 0 provides an early entry point to the course and is specifically focused upon graphic design, offering an alternative to a Foundation Diploma. The year enables you to explore and experiment with a range of tools, methods and processes, to begin developing a portfolio of work.

• View the programme specification for 2016 entry
• View the summary specification for 2017 entry

Please note, syllabus content indicated is provided as a guide. The content of the course may be subject to change.

Course modules

• Accessing Thinking

  In this unit you’ll be introduced to the tools required to allow you to explore the fundamentals of graphic design practice. These tools include (but are not limited to) conceptual and theoretical methods, research processes, and making.
  
  Through a series of thematic projects, task-based workshops and seminars, you’ll adopt a practice-based approach that enables you to experience different aspects of the discipline, both digital and analogue. Underpinning this practical approach is an exploration of the professional and academic contexts that define the subject, through a series of written assignments. Within this unit, in addition to furthering your own independent practice, you’ll have the opportunity to undertake a collaborative project with other students and/or external partners.
  

• Accessing Making

  In this unit you’ll be introduced to the software and methods of production which you’ll need to practice the fundamentals of graphic design.
  
  Through a series of thematic projects, task-based workshops and seminars, you’ll adopt a practice-based approach that enables you to experience different aspects of the discipline, both digital and analogue. Underpinning and working in conjunction with this practical approach is the initial exploration of the professional and academic contexts that define the subject – through a series of written or equivalent format assignments.
  

• Accessing Professional Practice

  Through this unit you’ll undertake an investigation into the different aspects of graphic design practice, though undertaking research and participating in discussions, presentations and workshops that explore a range of historical and contemporary practitioners.

During the first year of the course, you’ll be introduced to a range of practices and theories that underpin the discipline of graphic design. Through projects, workshops and written assignments, you’ll be encouraged to develop a critical, rigorous, and experimental approach to developing work. Additional emphasis is placed upon acquiring technical skills through taught inductions in both digital and analogue processes.

Theory is embedded within broader units and alongside your practice-based projects – you’ll undertake a rigorous investigation into the associated social, economic, political and cultural contexts of the discipline through a series of written assignments.

• View the programme specification for 2016 entry
• View the summary specification for 2017 entry

Please note, syllabus content indicated is provided as a guide. The content of the course may be subject to change.

Course modules

• Developing Thinking

  In this unit you’ll further your existing knowledge and understanding of the tools you need to explore the fundamentals of graphic design practice. These tools include (but are not limited to) conceptual and theoretical methods, research processes, and making. This is delivered through a series of thematic projects, task-based workshops and seminars. Within this unit, in addition to furthering your own independent practice, you’ll have the opportunity to undertake a collaborative project with other students and/or external partners.

• Developing Making

  In this unit you’ll broaden your understanding of the software and methods of production required to enable you to practice the fundamentals of graphic design. Through a series of thematic projects, task-based workshops and seminars, you’ll work on gaining a broad range of skills which will allow you to develop your work.

• Platform Rotation

  This unit is a rotation of areas of practice that enable you to prepare for specialised practice within Level 5. You’ll undertake a range of projects, workshops and assignments that encourage you to explore aspects of the discipline in depth.

During your second year of study, you’ll have the opportunity to specialise within chosen aspects of the discipline. You’ll select two units from a range of platforms that will allow you to cover areas of interest in greater depth, through a range of practice-based projects and skills workshops.

Theory is embedded within these units, and alongside your practice-based projects you’ll undertake a rigorous investigation into the associated social, economic, political and cultural contexts of the discipline through a series of written assignments.

Alongside the two platform units, you’ll undertake a work placement. This is structured to help you gain practical, professionally focused skills, and to develop your portfolio and CV. It culminates with a ten-week placement of your choice.

Also, you’ll have the option to take part in the Study Abroad programme during your second year of study, providing you with the opportunity to study at one of our worldwide partner institutions for the second half of the academic year.