ObjectivesThe course is studio based, practice led, and underpinned by a theoretical framework that aims to promote lively, autonomous and reflective learners who have their own creative position on contemporary debates and society. The course is open to individual definitions of authorship, encouraging students to explore and realise their singular perspective by providing a supportive and flexible approach to new modes of generating, presenting and disseminating work. This could encompass innovative uses of process or technology, the development of a signature style or an investigation into new models of working. Students are expected to examine their practice within a broader cultural context, considering the roles and responsibilities of a designer in relation to societal, environmental, and ethical issues.
Entry requirementsThis course is aimed at applicants who are looking to be authors of their own practice: skilled practitioners who wish to explore, develop and define their practice in terms of critical content, context and form. Whilst this may challenge and redefine existing boundaries the primary concern of the course is to develop work that has integrity and autonomy. Candidates should be enterprising and selfmotivated, with a vision and voice that transcends conventional boundaries and who are seeking to develop their practice at a professional level within a researchorientated context. The course actively encourages applicants from industry and other subject disciplines who demonstrate the ability and desire to develop their work graphically.
Academic titleMA Graphic Design Communication
Course descriptionStructure
The course has three main phases:
Phase 1: Analysis of Practice and Exploration of Methodologies
Phase 2: Development and Consolidation
Phase 3: Resolution
These phases are set within a credit framework of three assessed units: Studio Practice, Advanced Studio Practice (which run sequentially), and Theoretical Studies, running throughout the course.
Studio practice involves evolving and developing a personal programme of studio work and related research. Theoretical Studies provides a framework from which you develop a critical research paper, enabling you to locate your ideas and practice in relation to contemporary debate on cultural and theoretical issues.
Throughout the course you participate in individual and group tutorials, develop skills through Personal Professional Development workshops and on-line resources, with postgraduate talks organised to introduce you to a range of visiting artists and practitioners.
Course Highlights
The course philosophy is to enable students to define their individual voice by exploring their influences and contexts. In addition the course encourages students to test their ideas with our industry contacts such as the Design Museum and the television channel E4.
Career Prospects
Providing a supportive and critically reflective academic environment, the course enables you to engage with leading practitioners and redefine your current and future practice. The course expands your potential to operate as independent and influential practitioners, innovative leaders within your field or to pursue your research to the next level.
Entry Requirements
-An Honours degree or equivalent academic/professional qualifications
-Written statement of intent
-Selection of recent work
-EU/International students must show proof of equivalent qualification and IELTS 6.5 in English on enrolment
-The College takes into consideration prior learning, alternative qualifications and experience
When submitting a portfolio of work on CD, it must be in the form of a Powerpoint, Keynotes or Adobe Acrobat presentation. Work submitted as loose jpegs will be sent back and candidates will be asked to resubmit work within a presentation. Alternatively print portfolios are also acceptable.