Brave. Curious. Distinctive.

Our established and respected Graphic Design programme has a strong reputation for producing graduates with all the core skills required to succeed in industry.

On this programme you will hone your skills in conceptual thinking (ideas) and visual problem solving (designing) through reflective practice and creative methodologies. That is at the heart of what we do. Great ideas - well executed. You can explore many areas of the graphic design sphere with us, including image-creation, typography and layout, branding & packaging, and more... and start to develop your own interests and creative leaning.

You will develop your creative eye through thinking, making, crafting and realising your concepts to completion, whilst also having the opportunity to reflect on the social and environmental impact of your work. Our experienced course team will help you learn through established critique and feedback methods that are authentic and replicate industry practice. You’ll work on practical projects in a supportive, collaborative, and competitive studio environment, and grow into more confident graphic designers.

Upon graduation, you will be prepared for a career in Graphic Design, or in the many related design positions that a transferable and versatile skillset unlocks. Our graduates go on to succeed in all areas of this ever expanding and exciting subject we call Graphic Design.

Why choose Northumbria to study Graphic Design?

Student Rated - Over 94% of students studying Graphic Design at Northumbria believed they had chance to explore ideas and concepts in depth, and believed the library resources supported their learning (NSS, 2023).

Excellent Careers Prospects -Graphic Design at Northumbria is ranked 2nd in the UK for Graduate Prospects (Guardian University Guide, 2024). This is because 93% of our graduates are in highly skilled employment or further study 15 months after graduation.

Research Power - Art and Design at Northumbria is ranked 4th in the UK for research power (REF, 2021). This is a rise of 6 places compared to 2014.

How will I learn during the Graphic Design BA (Hons) degree course?

You will learn through doing. This hands-on course is designed so that the way you work mirrors the practice of a graphic design studio, instilling in you the discipline of a professional designer from day one. Through exploring and experimenting with theory, concept, ideas, and visual research you will become a confident and innovative practitioner.

You will work on ‘live briefs’ based on real-life scenarios, encouraged to use your creative and your problem solving skills to meet your ‘clients’ expectations. Studio-culture practices and workshop activities develop research methodologies and knowledge of industry-standard practice. You will have access to up-to-date equipment and support from dedicated technicians.

You will have the opportunity to work on your own portfolio during the course, graduating with a complete showcase of your abilities and skills.

Who teaches the BA (Hons) Graphic Design course?

Our innovative team have extensive experience across the Graphic Design field. From practising graphic designers working in award-winning design consultancies, to experience in publishing, illustration and animation, they have the relevant experience and industry know-how to equip you with the creative and practical skills needed to make an impact in your chosen profession.

The team continue to work alongside the design industry in a variety of ways, through both research and practice, feeding back current design trends in order to continually enhance and ensure the course is current and vital.

Where will I learn throughout my Graphic Design degree?

You will be supported throughout the course by a team of highly dedicated and experienced technical staff, enabling you access and use of outstanding facilities including:

• Apple Mac computer labs
• Photographic studios
• Screen printing
• Letterpress workshop
• Making and binding workshop
• Laser cutting
• Dark rooms
• Large format and specialist digital printing facilities
• Paper making
• Stills and digital film camera equipment
• Adobe software
• LinkedIn Learning
• Paper Library
• Access to equipment stores containing industry standard specialist equipment.

How will my BA (Hons) Graphic Design degree provide me with the skills needed for my career?

This course is industry facing, and specifically designed to make you as employable as possible, with strong creative industry links in the UK, throughout Europe and internationally. There is the opportunity to study abroad or a one year internship or placement. The course runs field trips to London, Amsterdam and Barcelona to experience the culture of some of Europe’s top design studios. Working on live project briefs from global brands and organisations gives you excellent practical experience and a vital head start with your portfolio.

Our award-winning students have gained success in many Graphic Design awards, with 82 ‘Design and Art Director’s Awards’ (D&AD) in 22 years, alongside ISTD awards, The Design Bridge and Brand Opus bursary awards, amongst many others.

Our carefully designed Graphic Design course will facilitate the development of a strong and distinctive personal portfolio of work, to enable you to be fully prepared for a career in the industry. You will graduate with the necessary skills to enter a wide variety of careers in the creative professions. Your degree culminates in a final show, in both Newcastle and London, which showcases your work to the creative industries.

We have an enviable reputation for producing graduates who go on to become leaders in their field in the UK and beyond. Many of our alumni are now working within high profile design consultancies around the world.