ObjectivesThe School of Art and Design at Nottingham Trent University has developed an exciting new suite of one-year courses designed specifically to enable applicants from non-traditional art and design backgrounds to progress to Masters level. The Graduate Diploma in Graphic Design will also enable conversions from related degree subjects and offer experienced designers the opportunity to reposition in relation to new technologies. The strong vocational orientation of the course enables students to build on their base of knowledge and skills, providing a specialised educational experience and an additional qualification towards professional career development. These unique courses provide a one-year progression route to Masters-level study. For overseas students this is an invaluable opportunity to develop research methods and abilities whilst learning more in a specific subject area. For domestic students, the Graduate Diploma provides a bridge from first degree experiences which may not be directly aligned to a Masters subject, or where professional reorientation is needed to further career development.
Entry requirementsEntry requirements * an honours degree in related subject area * a portfolio of work that demonstrates potential to complete the course. Students will usually be required to possess a pass mark of 2.2 or higher (or equivalent), although applications are encouraged from candidates with other qualifications and work experience. All candidates will therefore submit a portfolio of design work and (where possible) attend an interview designed to evaluate their suitability for the course. International students who do not speak English as their first language will need an IELTS score of 6 or TOEFL 207 (computer based) or 540 (paper based) to be eligible. The Graduate Diploma programme has been developed to provide widening participation entry routes to the School’s postgraduate degrees, particularly for adult learners continuing professional development and degrees requiring conversion to a new specialism.
Academic titleGraduate Diploma Graphic Design
Course descriptionThe course is split into 3 modules, each running for 10 weeks. A Research Methods module runs concurrently throughout the year.
Visual research and design skills and process
30 credits - 10 weeks
Developing your graphic design practice
30 credits - 10 weeks
Personal graphic design project
30 credits - 10 weeks
Research Methods
30 credits - 30 weeks
Benefits A Graduate Diploma in Graphic Design will enable you to:
* undertake a conversion or bridging course in preparation for Masters level study or professional practice
* increase your understanding of a chosen subject while developing your analytical and problem solving skills
* improve your research skills and use them in the context of practical research projects
* communicate your ideas professionally in visual, verbal and written forms.
Resources and facilities
A broad range of facilities is available for use within the visual and applied design areas, ranging from state of the Art CAD-CAM equipment to craft-based approaches to textile design development and related technologies.
Graduate employability
The School’s emphasis has always been to promote professionalism, specialism, expertise and excellence. The career paths of our graduates reflect this philosophy and many have made significant contributions to their professions, working for internationally renowned companies worldwide.