BA (Hons) Graphic Design
Introduction

In recent times, the field of Graphic Design has undergone rapid evolution, mirroring global trends in the transition of business and communication to the digital realm. The BA (Hons) Graphic Design programme with optional Professional Placement, acknowledges the dynamic nature of the contemporary creative landscape, combining timeless artistic principles with cutting-edge technological advancements. This fusion not only addresses the demands of the digital age but also opens up a multitude of opportunities for aspiring graphic designers worldwide.

The course places a strong emphasis on fostering creative problem-solving skills within the realm of visual communication. Students engage in a comprehensive exploration of both traditional and digital media, honing their abilities in print and digital design. Core disciplines include typography, editorial design, branding, and packaging, providing a well-rounded foundation for aspiring designers. Moreover, students delve into the dynamic world of digital platforms, gaining expertise in areas such as moving image creation, interface design, and photography.

A distinctive feature of the programme is its commitment to real-world application. Students actively participate in tackling challenging live briefs, navigating projects with genuine deadlines that simulate the fast-paced nature of the professional graphic design landscape. Our University’s robust industry connections facilitate valuable opportunities for students to embark on placements with top agencies, offering a firsthand experience of the professional graphic design environment.

The BA (Hons) Graphic Design programme not only equips students with technical proficiency but also nurtures their creativity, critical thinking, and adaptability. Through a curriculum designed to reflect the ever-evolving industry, graduates emerge as versatile professionals capable of navigating diverse challenges in the graphic design field. The programme’s dedication to practical, industry-relevant experiences ensures that graduates are well-prepared to make meaningful contributions to the global creative landscape.

Also offered by UCLan in Preston, UK, the BA (Hons) Graphic Design programme stands as the oldest Graphic Design course in the UK, with a prestigious legacy spanning over 50 years. This remarkable milestone signifies not only the programme’s historical significance but also underscores the invaluable experience garnered over decades. The course has consistently evolved, aligning with industry needs and embracing technological advancements, ensuring a curriculum that remains at the forefront of contemporary design education.

Career Opportunities

Graphic design profession remains in strong demand due to the ways that its underpinning principles inform almost all visual communication which in turn can be applied in almost any other area. Job openings related to graphic design are now being published more often than ever before. This employability potential is anticipated to be even higher in the future as fields related to arts and design expand continuously, as with the rapid advancement of design technologies, qualified and skilled professionals are becoming more and more essential for almost all industry sectors.

Employability is embedded in the programme, which contains several features with emphasis on continuous learning and personal development, reflective practice, industry work and problem-solving skills, through hands-on applied projects. The programme’s knowledge and skill diversity will equip graduates with the necessary expertise to be employed in different sectors and industries, such as design agencies, design studios, marketing/advertising and/or digital agencies, multimedia agencies, consultancy firms, or even start their own independent graphic design company.