Places still available
Contact our Clearing hotline to discuss your options and secure your place this September
Undergraduate course
BA (Hons)
Graphic Design
Now more than ever, the world needs graphic designers to create impactful, purposeful communication. This course equips you to meet that demand – just like our graduates now thriving in top creative studios.
Our typical offer
104 UCAS points
Get hands-on with unique resources
Learn from experts and gain practical skills with regular access to the latest digital and analogue ‘CreaTech’ facilities.
Personalised, supportive, welcoming
With our tailored approach to teaching, enjoy enviable support in your journey through university.
Do graphic design for good
Inspired by the University’s Ocean City setting and world-leading research, learn to design sustainably for future generations.
About
As never before, the world needs graphic designers. By combining ideas, images and text to communicate memorably and with impact, they ensure vital messages are experienced and understood. The creative industries are hungry for new ideas, but expect them to serve a purpose too – with this course you’ll learn how to design for this need. Just look to our graduates, who enjoy senior positions at some of the most impactful and adventurous creative studios in the UK and abroad, as proof.
Mr James Brocklehurst
Lecturer in Graphic Communication
This course is for you if...
you are passionate about visual communication and looking to enhance your creative skills
you want to be part of a creative community
you enjoy the freedom to explore your creativity, experiment and push boundaries
you are aiming for a dynamic career with an impressive and industry-ready portfolio
Details
Year 1
In the first year, you'll explore core principles of graphic communication through typography, image-making, and layout. Modules introduce editorial, identity, and digital design, encouraging creative problem-solving and critical reflection across a range of visual contexts.
Core modules
GDES424
Type And Image
40 credits
This module introduces students to the use of typography in conjunction with imagery and encourages exploration of ‘text and image’ solutions to graphic communication problems. Understanding and use of the design process is further developed. Graphic design debates and contexts are introduced, as are ways of articulating these using academic conventions.
GDES434
Editorial Design
20 credits
Students are introduced to editorial design principles, practices and contexts. Students are encouraged to consider how typography, image, layout and format, play a part in the communication of editorial content. Working methodologies and articulation of thinking, in the context of editorial design, is developed.
GDES444
Identity Design
20 credits
Students are introduced to identity design principles, practices and contexts. Students are encouraged to consider how typography and other aspects of a visual identities, play a part in how brands communicate to their audiences. Working methodologies and articulation of thinking, in the context of identity design, is developed.
GDES454
Digital Design
20 credits
Students are introduced to digital design principles, practices and contexts. Students are encouraged to consider how typography and other aspects of graphic design can communicate information and experiences through digital media. Working methodologies and articulation of thinking, in the context of digital design, is developed.
GDES464
Type as Image
20 credits
This module introduces students to typographic practice within the context of graphic design andencourages exploration of typographic solutions to basic graphic communication problems. Typographyprinciples and terminologies are introduced and explored. Elements of the design process, such asresearch, concept development, and critical reflection, are introduced and attempted.
100% Coursework
Year 2
In your second year, you'll deepen your understanding of typographic practice and graphic communication through experimentation, collaboration, and critical analysis. Modules encourage creative risk-taking and the development of refined design outcomes across editorial, identity, and digital contexts. A faculty-wide collaborative project introduces real-world challenges, fostering teamwork and interdisciplinary thinking.
Core modules
GDES514
Designing with Type
20 credits
This module extends and develops students understanding of typographic practice. A complex graphic communication problem is answered typographically. Students are encouraged to explore new methods and techniques, whilst honing their understanding of the design process developed at level 4.
100% Coursework
GDES524
Experiment
40 credits
Students are encouraged to explore typography and graphic design processes that are playful, creative, non-routine and may contain elements of risk. The importance of experimentation as a way of revealing unforeseen possibilities within the design process is introduced. Key perspectives for analysing graphic design practice are introduced, and students are asked to apply these to their own analysis, following academic conventions.
100% Coursework
GDES534
Developing Design Practice
40 credits
Students work towards a number of designed outcomes, building upon knowledge and skills gained at level 4, particularly in the fields of editorial design, identity design and/or digital design. Further perspectives for analysing graphic design practice are investigated, and students are asked to apply these to their own analyses, following academic conventions.
100% Coursework
GDES545
Common Challenge: Collaborative Project
Students are given a ‘macro-level’ topic, that is determined and introduced at a faculty level, and work together with other students to produce a graphic design response. The benefits and challenges of teamwork and collaboration are explored. Results are presented, alongside those from other programmes, at the end of the module.
Final year
In the final year, you'll consolidate your design practice through self-directed projects, competition briefs, and portfolio development. A dissertation module supports critical reflection and research aligned with personal and professional goals. With a focus on typographic problem-solving and real-world challenges, you will produce a major body of work that showcases your creative identity and prepare you for employment or further study.
Core modules
ADA600
Common Dissertation: Critical Practices
20 credits
The module engages students in situating practice through research, contextualisation and critical reflection, in relation to their final stage study and post University aspirations. Programmes can offer: a traditional dissertation; preparation for an extended dissertation; situating existing practice; or the construction of a new body of work as practice-based research.
100% Coursework
GDES614
Minor Project
20 credits
After reflecting upon level 5 learning experiences, future aims and personal interests, students, in negotiation with tutors, propose and undertake a project that solves a complex graphic communication problem. Solutions must have a typographic emphasis. The project can also provide an opportunity to further explore or confirm potential award option choices: core, editorial, identity or digital.
100% Coursework
GDES624
The Competition
20 credits
Students undertake designs in response to a brief set by an international design competition. A project proposal is constructed, in negotiation with a tutor, that must also connect to a chosen award option (core, editorial, identity, digital), if relevant, and enable complex, novel solutions.
100% Coursework
GDES634
Portfolio
20 credits
Students are asked to investigate employment or postgraduate possibilities that reflect personal aims and ambitions. Self-promotion items are designed in response, including a portfolio presenting the body of design work produced during the course to date.
100% Coursework
GDES644
Major Project
40 credits
After reflection and consultation with tutors, a project proposal and schedule of work is devised, outlining a complex and challenging graphic communication task. Upon approval, the student undertakes self-directed supervised study, leading to the production of a major body of work reflecting personal aims, interests, and award option, where relevant.
100% Coursework
The modules shown for this course are those currently being studied by our students, or are proposed new modules. Please note that programme structures and individual modules are subject to amendment from time to time as part of the University’s curriculum enrichment programme and in line with changes in the University’s policies and requirements.
Experience
Hands-on learning
Have enviable access to exceptional facilities, including printmaking and letterpress workshops, large-format digital printing, Mac suites, photography studios, immersive media and digital fabrication labs and more – all bookable via an online system.
Teaching is led by experienced educators and practitioners, with specialist knowledge in typography, editorial and identity design, digital platforms, and design culture. You will also benefit from guest talks and workshops by leading figures in the field, offering invaluable industry insight and inspiration.
Your creative home
Life on the course is vibrant and creative, with all three year groups sharing a dedicated design studio that fosters strong connections and peer learning. Small class sizes ensure close contact with lecturers and tailored support, helping you grow quickly as designers.
Based within the School of Art, Design and Architecture, you’ll be studying in the same on-campus buildings as other creatives such as illustrators, photographers, product designers and game developers, providing the opportunity for idea-sharing and collaboration.
Graphic design for good
Inspired by the city’s coastal and moorland setting and the University’s pioneering research, you’ll learn how graphic design can encourage us all to think and act more sustainably. Past projects have involved working with The Met Office, and Environmental Science PhD students on communicating their vital work.
Many projects have won national recognition, from organisations such as the Royal Television Society, the Creative Conscience Awards and the International Society of Typographic Designers.
Learn from experts in their field
Mr Mark James
Lecturer in Graphic Communication
Book and editorial design expert
Mrs Victoria Squire
Associate Head of School - Education and Student Experience
Typography expert
Mr James Brocklehurst
Lecturer in Graphic Communication
Digital design expert
Life in ¾«Æ·ÎÞÂë¹ú²ú×Ô²ú
¾«Æ·ÎÞÂë¹ú²ú×Ô²ú's maritime history and coastal location have an undeniable influence on life in the city. The walk from our main campus to the seafront is only about one mile, providing loads of opportunity to relax and unwind during your studies. You don’t need to leave the city to get to the coast!
The overall vibe of the city is perfect. You are by the sea so it is still laid back, but you have all the conveniences of living in a city.
Jenna
Current student
Current student
Life in the city
Discover what ¾«Æ·ÎÞÂë¹ú²ú×Ô²ú and its unique geographical location have to offer
Explore your accommodation options
Discover our range of student accommodation options and find out how you can get a guaranteed place in halls
Our large student population, active Students' Union, and abundance of student-led clubs and societies blend to create a busy and vibrant student scene
Careers
Turn creativity into a career
Graphic designers work in collaborative and creative environments, making work that reaches large audiences, and get paid to do it! We have an established track record of helping students prepare for employment, and land their dream job.
Our graduates have worked for the following iconic studios:
M&C Saatchi / Design Bridge and Partners / Future PLC / Jones Knowles Ritchie / venturethree / DesignStudio / Leo Burnett (UK and Sydney) / Koto Berlin / Bond & Coyne / Buck Los Angeles / Mother Design / Snask Stockholm / Webb & Webb / SEA Design / Pearlfisher / Together / Taxi / SomeOne / BBC Studios
M&C Saatchi / Design Bridge and Partners / Future PLC / Jones Knowles Ritchie / venturethree / DesignStudio / Leo Burnett (UK and Sydney) / Koto Berlin / Bond & Coyne / Buck Los Angeles / Mother Design / Snask Stockholm / Webb & Webb / SEA Design / Pearlfisher / Together / Taxi / SomeOne / BBC Studios
Platform for success
Our graduates work for some of the top global creative agencies
Eva
Eva joined the course from Latvia and now works as a Lead UI / Visual Designer for IBM in their research and development laboratories in Hursley.
Rowan
Rowan’s time at ¾«Æ·ÎÞÂë¹ú²ú×Ô²ú lead to him becoming Design and Visual Identity manager for the National Trust. He now runs his own successful practice.
Paul
After working as a senior designer for several years, Paul now freelances for agencies including PearlFisher, JKR, Taxi Studio and Design Bridge.
I’ve worked on campaigns that have won awards for creative use of media and have had genuine impact. The exciting moment for me is when you get the stats back about how well a campaign has performed – it always makes the months of hard work you put into a job worth it.
Nathan
BA (Hons) Graphic Design graduate
BA (Hons) Graphic Design graduate
This course provided a wonderful opportunity to talk to professionals around the world, working in the field you want to get into. It has also given me the confidence to just go up and talk to people, however daunting it may seem at first!
Nadia
BA (Hons) Graphic Design graduate
BA (Hons) Graphic Design graduate
*Data is from the Graduate Outcomes Surveys covering the three years of 2019/20 – 2021/22. Graduates were surveyed 15 months after graduating. Data displayed is for UK-domiciled, first degree, full-time graduates who are working, studying or looking for work.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
Tuition fees for new full-time students starting in 2025-2026 or
Full-time study
£9,535 per year
£9,535 per year
Tuition fee price changes
In November 2024, the UK Government announced an increase to tuition fees and maintenance support for 2025/26 academic year, setting the standard tuition fee and student maintenance loan at £9,535 per year and the University’s tuition fees were increased to this rate.
The UK Government has indicated that further fee increases may be announced this year and in subsequent years. If the UK Government does so, the University may increase annual tuition fees in subsequent years, which may include the fees for the 2026/2027 academic year, in line with the Student Contract and all times in line with the maximum tuition fee caps set by the Government. More information about
fees and costs of studying
.
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2025-2026 academic year.
Full-time study
£17,600 per year
£17,600 per year
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2026-2027 academic year.
Full-time study
£18,150 per year
£18,150 per year
Tuition fee price changes
Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about
fees and costs of studying
.
Additional costs
This course is delivered by the Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Business. Studying a course in this faculty may incur additional costs relating to placement or equipment requirements.
Fund your studies
As an undergraduate at ¾«Æ·ÎÞÂë¹ú²ú×Ô²ú, there are plenty of funding options available, including tuition fee loans, living cost loans, scholarships, bursaries and support funds.
Supporting students with the cost of living
The cost of living in the UK has risen faster than household income, meaning that most people will have less to spend on essential goods and services. This is an ongoing situation that is likely to affect everyone in some way.
The University provides advice and guidance and has a range of services, facilities and offers to help students with rising everyday costs.
Apply
Places still available
Contact our Clearing hotline to discuss your options and secure your place this September
Entry requirements
Our typical offer
104 UCAS points
104 UCAS points
You may be eligible for a contextual offer
GCSE
All applicants must have GCSE (or equivalent) mathematics and English at grade 4/C or above.
A levels
Minimum of two A levels in any subject. General Studies accepted.
18 Unit BTEC National Diploma/QCF Extended Diploma
DMM.
BTEC National Diploma modules
If you hold a BTEC qualification, it is vital that you provide our Admissions team with details of the exact modules you have studied as part of the BTEC. Without this information, we may be unable to process your application quickly and you could experience significant delays in the progress of your application to study with us. Please explicitly state the full list of modules within your qualification at the time of application.
All Access courses
Pass a named Access to Higher Education Diploma (preferably Art and Design or combined) with at least 33 credits at merit and/or distinction.
T level
Merit in digital production, design and development.
International Baccalaureate
26–28 points.
Extended entry requirements
To be accepted onto a degree course with us, you must have a suitable English language qualification.
A digital portfolio is required for entry onto this course.
Ready to apply?
All applications for undergraduate courses are made through UCAS.com. Please refer to the course facts below when completing your application for this course.
UCAS course code
W218
W218
Institution code
P60
P60
Duration
3 years
Course type
Full-time
Study location
¾«Æ·ÎÞÂë¹ú²ú×Ô²ú
¾«Æ·ÎÞÂë¹ú²ú×Ô²ú
Entry requirements
We welcome applicants with international qualifications and we accept a range of qualifications from across the globe.
Our typical offer
104 UCAS points
104 UCAS points
BSearch entry requirements for your country
5
English language requirements
To be accepted onto a degree course with us, you must have a suitable English language qualification.
Ready to apply?
As an international student, you can apply for this course through UCAS or an agent in your country.
Need support with your application?
- Personal statement guidance
- student visa support
- travel and arrival information
- and more.
UCAS course code
W218
W218
Institution code
P60
P60
Duration
3 years
Course type
Full-time
Study location
¾«Æ·ÎÞÂë¹ú²ú×Ô²ú
¾«Æ·ÎÞÂë¹ú²ú×Ô²ú
Visit us at an undergraduate on-campus open day
Open days are the best way to get a feel for studying an undergraduate degree at the ¾«Æ·ÎÞÂë¹ú²ú×Ô²ú.
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The results of the National Student Survey (NSS) and the Graduate Outcomes survey (GO) are made available to prospective students and their advisors through the Discover Uni website.