Graphic Communication - BA (Hons)

Graphic Communication makes an essential contribution to the material and visual cultures that surround us. It is a powerful catalyst for social, cultural and political change, has the power to shape behaviour, inform perceptions and guide attention.

On the BA (Hons) Graphic Communication degree at Cardiff Met, you will explore the changing landscape and role of graphic design within a 21st century context, dealing with the challenges of globalisation, inclusivity and sustainability.

You will engage with cutting edge studio practice, collaborate with other disciplines, explore methods and theory, work on live briefs with real clients and undertake self-directed design projects through typography, image and narrative.

We believe that the role of the designer is equally critic, curator, author, craftsperson, philosopher, communicator, collaborator and instigator, and will support you in becoming a skilled practitioner ready for national and international employment.

Career

Whilst your learning is designed to develop you into a rounded and capable designer and intellectual, your curriculum is similarly structured with your potential in mind.
As such, the emphasis that will have been placed upon your work ethic, both creatively and academically, is matched with significant focus on real world experience; from building contacts and undertaking placements to live briefs and, should you choose to do so, support in forming your own business.

The course has excellent relationships with the Welsh and London design communities as well as with research and cultural partners. Our graduates are in prominent design positions worldwide and are responsible for graphic design output in an expanse of cultural, social, technological, political and environmental contexts.

You can elect to take a route through your second and final years of studies where you can engage with businesses or prepare to launch your own for the moment you graduate. In your final year, rather than submit a dissertation, you have the option of devising a detailed business plan.

Throughout your time at CSAD, you will be meeting and hearing from professionals within your industry, honing your skills and ideas for commercial and professional advantage. Cross-disciplinary projects will prepare you for teamwork later on, whilst live briefs will prepare you for deadlines and the demands of tight specifications.

Graduates from the programme are well placed to join design companies, work as designers in large organisations, or set up their own businesses. Some take further training, for example a PGCE. Some elect to take their studies further by studying at CSAD at masters level. They have opportunities to take this further, through a Professional Doctorate in Design.