The MA course in Graphic Design encourages the diversity of design study opportunities possible within the wide field of Graphic Design. The course focus is rooted in visual communication research, underpinned by theory with an emphasis on the development of a very personal body of practical work.
Students may choose to work within any area of contemporary graphic design practice or explore the potential for design diversity. Throughout the course students are encouraged to pursue a unique personal line of inquiry within the broad subject area of Graphic Design.
By the end of the course all students should have completed a cohesive body of work to a professional standard and be able to clearly articulate a sound intellectual rationale and a broad critical viewpoint.
ASSESSMENT
Assessment is 100% coursework and you will be continually assessed throughout the course.
The course is continually assessed through module requirements, allowing students to achieve target awards. Final modules are graded Pass, Merit, Distinction.
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
The MA will help further career opportunities within commercial design practice – giving recognition to each student’s individual practical and intellectual abilities. Graduates will improve their chance of employment in the advertising industry with their demonstrated enhanced specialism and understanding developed on the course.
COURSE STRUCTURE
Core modules:
MA Design Stage 1 – Design Ideation (60 credits)
Negotiate a ‘programme of study’ with your tutors to identify the topics that you intend to study and develop. Choose to specialise in just one discipline or explore a number of different disciplines. Your studies will include aspects of creative studio practice that are relevant to your named pathway. There is also a theoretical element that contextualises your chosen discipline(s), alongside other design media, within the broader field of design.
MA Design Stage 2 – Design development and Prototypes (60 credits)
Test out your ideas and experiences in this prototyping stage before the final outcome in Stage 3. Explore the techniques and application of your ideas. Practical output and theoretical contextualisation will continue to interact and build on each other.
MA Design Stage 3 – Design Realisation and Production (60 credits)
Produce your final design outcomes leading to a portfolio of creative work that has evolved from the practice and theoretical research developed up to this point. A Critical Evaluation Report will support your portfolio.
