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Contact our Clearing hotline to discuss your options and secure your place this September
Undergraduate course
BA (Hons)
Graphic Design with Foundation
This course is a four-year programme of study that includes an additional foundation year, enabling you to develop the required practical, technical, academic and creative skills for your undergraduate degree at the 精品无码国产自产.
Our typical offer
32 UCAS points
Get hands-on with unique resources
Learn from experts and gain practical skills with regular access to the latest digital and analogue 鈥楥reaTech鈥 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鈥檚 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 鈥 with this course you鈥檒l 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
What is a foundation year?
A Foundation year provides an additional entry-level year for you to gain further knowledge of a subject before starting a full degree course.
On completing the Foundation year successfully, you progress automatically onto the full degree course, which is usually three years. You don鈥檛 need to apply for a place on the full degree course.
Further information on
精品无码国产自产 courses with Foundation years
.
A full list of potential progression routes is listed under course details
Why choose a degree with a foundation year?
- To build your confidence to study at university level.
- To gain the knowledge and skills needed to complete a full degree.
- Your qualifications don't meet entry requirements for a three-year degree.
- You want to study a new subject that your previous qualifications or experience haven鈥檛 prepared you for.
- You may have thought university wasn鈥檛 an available option for you.
- You want to join a university course that is needed for the career you鈥檇 like.
This course is for you if...
you are passionate about visual communication and creative design
you want to be part of a creative community
you enjoy the freedom to explore your creativity, experiment and push boundaries
you want to level up your graphic design skills and expand your portfolio through practical experience
Details
Foundation year
The Foundation pathway provides students with non-standard entry points to progress onto the BA (Hons) course. The Foundation year allows you to develop skills across a range of media and introduces creative best practice in preparation for the first year of the undergraduate programme. During the Foundation year you will have the opportunity to explore creative processes relevant to visual design, animation, illustration, print-making, fine art, and photography. The course is designed to encourage visual exploration and creative discovery within an engaging and vibrant studio setting. Upon successful completion of the Foundation course, you will join the undergraduate BA (Hons) programme equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to successfully complete an undergraduate degree.
Core modules
ADA001
Materials, Methods and Media
30 credits
This module will introduce students to various techniques, materials and mediums through practise-based experiments, play and problem solving. You will be introduced to different creative processes and methods of working that will help you to develop your ideas and engage in critical and reflective practice.
100% Coursework
ADA002
Image, Type and Narrative
30 credits
Students will experiment with media, photography and typography to explore the relationship between image and word. This module enables students to gain knowledge within subject areas and explore the importance of developing an independent voice. Projects will become increasingly student driven as they develop their ability to propose ideas and solutions through self-directed inquiry, discovery and production.
100% Coursework
ADA003
Risk and Resolution
30 credits
Students will consolidate their skills, knowledge and understanding in initiating, researching, developing and presenting a final project and exhibition. This module will also enable students to continue to research and develop their strengths as an independent art and design practitioner and prepare them for their next stage of study.
100% Coursework
ADA004
Critical Themes in Art & Design
20 credits
This module introduces students to transformative phases within the historical and contemporary context of art, design, photography and media. Students will learn to ask critical questions and find answers through information gathering, reading and research. Through articulating responses, students will be introduced to academic conventions in preparation for progression to further Higher Education.
100% Coursework
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 鈥榯ext and image鈥 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
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
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
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
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鈥檚 curriculum enrichment programme and in line with changes in the University鈥檚 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 鈥 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鈥檒l 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鈥檚 coastal and moorland setting and the University鈥檚 pioneering research, you鈥檒l learn how graphic design can encourage us all to think and act more sustainably. Past projects have involved working with The Met Office, Professor Richard Thompson OBE FRS 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 Chris Booth
Lecturer in User Experience Design
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
Life in 精品无码国产自产
精品无码国产自产'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鈥檛 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 精品无码国产自产 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鈥檚 time at 精品无码国产自产 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鈥檝e 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 鈥 it always makes the months of hard work you put into a job worth it.
Nathan
Graphic Design graduate
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
Graphic Design graduate
Graphic Design graduate
*Data is from the Graduate Outcomes Surveys covering the three years of 2019/20 鈥 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
拢9,535 per year
拢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 拢9,535 per year and the University鈥檚 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
拢17,600 per year
拢17,600 per year
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2026-2027 academic year.
Full-time study
拢18,150 per year
拢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 精品无码国产自产, 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
32 UCAS points
32 UCAS points
Don鈥檛 have 32 UCAS tariff points? We will consider 鈥榥on-standard鈥 applications on a case-by-case basis.
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
For Level 3 entry the Tariff points entry level will normally be 32 UCAS points from A level or equivalent. Non-standard applicants will normally be interviewed.
BTEC
BTEC National Diploma/QCF Extended.
T level
Pass in any subject.
International Baccalaureate
24 overall.
Irish Leaving Certificate
Irish Highers, H5 in five subjects equivalent to 32 UCAS points.
English language proficiency
Students for whom English is an additional language will need to demonstrate ability in spoken and written English equivalent to an IELTS score of 6.0 and/or successfully complete the University鈥檚 special test before entering the foundation year.
Extended entry requirements
To be accepted onto a degree course with us, you must have a suitable English language qualification.
We are looking for applicants with good potential including with non-standard qualifications and background, so will consider every application on a case by case basis.
Alternatively, if you have any questions or concerns about meeting the entry requirements listed above we would encourage you to contact the Admissions Team on +44 1752 585858 or email admissions@plymouth.ac.uk, where a member of the team can offer you further advice.
See our
portfolio advice
for further information.
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
W21F
W21F
Institution code
P60
P60
Duration
4 years
Course type
Full-time
Study location
精品无码国产自产
精品无码国产自产
Entry requirements
We welcome applicants with international qualifications and we accept a range of qualifications from across the globe.
Our typical offer
32 UCAS points
32 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
W21F
W21F
Institution code
P60
P60
Duration
4 years
Course type
Full-time
Study location
精品无码国产自产
精品无码国产自产
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 精品无码国产自产.
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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.