MA Graphic Design

Entry requirements for postgraduate courses vary and you are advised to check below for any specific requirements or with Enquiry Management. Normally the following general entry requirements apply:
- Postgraduate Diplomas, Certificates and Conversion Courses:
- A recognised British first degree or its equivalent, or a BTEC Higher Diploma/Certificate.

Taught Masters Courses:
A recognised British honours degree to a good standard, or its equivalent. Applications from all candidates will be considered on their merits and in the light of the nature and scope of the programme or work proposed. Informal enquiries are welcomed and will normally be followed by an initial advisory interview.

Applicants must demonstrate achievement of any one of the following:
- Receipt of a 2.2 degree, or higher from a British university
- A high level of achievement in undergraduate studies at a university elsewhere
- Professional experience in the field or a related field in their home country

International Students are required to show competence in written and spoken English in addition to meeting the course entry requirements: International English Language Testing Service (IELTS) - minimum 7.5. All applicants are requested to submit digital supporting material and where possible, will be invited to attend an interview with a portfolio of recent work.

The MA course in Graphic Design encourages the diversity of design study opportunities possible within the wide field of Graphic Design.
The focus of the course is rooted in visual communication research underpinned by theory, with an emphasis on the development of a very personal body of practical work. Students may choose to work within any area of contemporary graphic design practice or explore the potential for design diversity.
Throughout the course students are encouraged to pursue a unique personal line of inquiry within the broad subject area of Graphic Design. By the end of the programme all students should have completed a cohesive body of work to a professional standard and be able to clearly articulate a sound intellectual rationale and a broad critical viewpoint.

Course Content
The MA course exists within the context of the AAS module scheme. There are 6 modules (3 single theory modules and 3 double practice modules) to complete over three semesters for full time study. Initial modules will direct students to generate their own personal research project related to visual communication. Students will be guided to initiate practical work through appropriate research methods and then continue to pursue a major investigation into a particular personal area of study, leading to a final assessment presentation/public exhibition.
Practical work is carried out within our extensive and very well equipped studios and workshops. Weekly tutorials are encouraged and further supported by a programme of guest lectures and visits to exhibitions, study field-trips etc.

Semester 1
Graphic Design Practice 1 – Double module
Design Research 1 – Single module

Semester 2
Graphic Design Practice 2 – Double module
Design Research 2 – Single module

Semester 3
Graphic Design Practice 3 – Double module
Postgraduate Project/Dissertation – Single module

Careers
The MA will help further career opportunities in the field of Graphic Design and Visual Communication – giving recognition to each student’s individual practical and intellectual abilities. The MA in Graphic Design however is not seen as wholly vocational as it also recognises the value of personal development, satisfaction and enlightenment.