Graphic and Communication Design, BA, University of Leeds

Course content

In your first year you'll build your understanding of studio practice and the design process through project work, as you explore different aspects of graphic and communication design. You'll improve your computer skills, and build on your visual research skills. At the same time, core modules will introduce you to the fundamentals of digital imaging, visual culture and the historical and theoretical approaches to design.

Once you've developed this base of knowledge and skills, you'll build your own design directions as you specialise in graphic design and advertising, packaging design or animation and interactive media throughout your second year. You'll also explore colour, advanced design theory and marketing while building your awareness of professional standards.

Your final year is more industry-focused, and you'll spend much of your time on an independent project to present at your final degree show. You'll also apply the research and critical skills you've gained through your academic studies to a dissertation on a topic of your choice.

Course structure

These are typical modules/components studied and may change from time to time. Read more in our Terms and conditions.

Year 1

Compulsory modules

• Entry requirements, fees and applying

  Entry requirements

  A-level: ABB including an art or design-related subject and not including General Studies or Critical Thinking.

  If you don't have an art or design-related subject but you are taking Media Studies A-level, we may also consider your application based on a high grade at GCSE in Art/Design and a portfolio of images of recent and relevant work.

  • Career opportunities

    This degree enables you to build valuable professional skills. You'll be encouraged to engage with a defined audience on each brief you work on, and you'll publicly present your work in your final year. But because a Leeds degree also gives you an academic framework for your design work, you'll also be equipped with a number of transferable skills.

    You'll have strong visual and critical awareness, as well as a commercial understanding of advertising and fast-changing markets. You'll have developed research and critical skills that make you an independent thinker, reflecting critically on the information you have and then drawing your own conclusions. All of these qualities are highly valued by employers in a range of industries.

    Graduates have gone into careers in a number of different fields. Many continue with their professional practice - our graduates have gone to work for companies like Saatchi + Saatchi, FutureBrand, Exposure, Spiekermann Partners, Zitromat, McCann-Erikson, Smoke & Mirrors, Show Media, Elle Magazine, BBYO, SSY, Allgood, Golden, Prego, Elmwood, Cosmo, Apple, Nike, TBWA, BBH, Wieden + Kennedy, Root and Brand Union.

    Careers support

    We encourage you to prepare for your career from day one. That's one of the reasons Leeds graduates are so sought after by employers.

    Leeds for Life is our unique approach to helping you make the most of University by supporting your academic and personal development. Find out more at the Leeds for Life website.

    The Careers Centre and staff in your faculty provide a range of help and advice to help you plan your career and make well-informed decisions along the way, even after you graduate. Find out more at the Careers website.

  • Study abroad and work placements

    Study abroad

    On this course you have the opportunity to apply to spend time abroad, usually as an extra academic year. The University has partnerships with more than 400 universities worldwide and popular destinations for our students include Europe, the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Hong Kong, South Africa and Latin America. 

    Find out more at the Study Abroad website.

    Leeds students can also spend a year working in industry after their second year. This is particularly popular with design students - it's great for your personal and professional development, and may lead to the offer of apermanent role at placement companies.

    Students have carried out placements at companies such as Tequila, FutureBrand, Spiekermann Partners, Zitromat, Show Media, The Chase, Saatchi + Saatchi, BBYO, SSY, Allgood, Prego, Elle Magazine, McCann - Erikson, Yell, Radio Aire and NE6.

    Read more about the Year in Industry