Entry requirementsEntry requirements Normally you need • a degree (2.1 or equivalent) in an appropriate discipline or significant relevant experience • appropriate study plans, including possible project topics and clear, appropriate and realistic learning aims • a high level of creative ability, as shown by a portfolio of work • ability to discuss design issues critically and confidently
Course descriptionWe designed this course for graduates in graphic, industrial or packaging design.
You develop your design skills and learn how to take a lead role in the international graphics industry. We do this by combining a major research-based project with teaching by a course team who are actively involved in high level graphic design research and practice.
The 2001 UK Research Assessment Exercise awarded us a rating of five for research in art and design. This means our research has international standing and is among the best in the country.
MA students can work alongside our packaging design consultancy the Packaging Partnership and with researchers from other design areas. We also have extensive contacts with leading brand companies and design organisations such as WPA Pinfold and Future Brand and encourage you to work collaboratively with them. We have worked with major commercial brands such as Marks & Spencer, Thorntons and Seeds of Change.
The Arts and Humanities Research Council (AHRC) award bursaries to UK and EU students. They base these awards on merit so you need to prepare your application carefully. You must apply to the AHRC by spring but need a prior offer of a course place.
We offer international students a pre-MA course – Graduate Diploma in Design and English, which allows you to become familiar with the learning culture and develop your English language ability in an art and design environment.
Associated careers
Graphic design offers excellent career opportunities including self-employment or working through agencies.
You can work in areas such as branding and advertising, where the ability to originate fresh thinking is essential. Companies and organisations seek creative talent as they recognise it is a key factor to achieving commercial success.
You can also continue advanced study to doctorate level. Working on a research degree in the University’s Art and Design Research Centre provides the opportunity to join a team dedicated to advancing creative practice within graphic design.
Course content
Modules
• research for practice 1 (design) • research for practice 2 (design) • creativity, innovation and professionalism • project development 1 • project development 2 • project • option module