BA (Hons) Graphic Design & Illustration
Location
Applicant Type
University Level
Level
Level 6
Subject
Creative Media, Animation & Games Design
Course Overview
UCAS Course Code: W210 - This course is validated by the University of the Arts London (UAL).
Develop your creative voice and professional portfolio as you explore graphic design and illustration through industry-focused projects, visual storytelling and contemporary design practice.
BA (Hons) Graphic Design & Illustration is a creative and collaborative degree that encourages you to explore ideas across graphic design, illustration and visual communication. Through experimentation, making and critical thinking, you will develop your own creative identity while responding to contemporary design challenges. Small class sizes create a supportive studio environment where you will receive individual guidance from tutors and have the freedom to develop your practice. In Year 2, you can specialise in either Graphic Design or Illustration, allowing you to build advanced skills and a professional portfolio aligned to your creative interests and career ambitions.
Key Highlights
- Explore graphic design, illustration and visual communication through creative studio practice
- Develop your own artistic style and professional portfolio benefit from small class sizes and personalised tutor support
- Choose a specialist pathway in Graphic Design or Illustration in Year 2
- Build the skills and experience needed for creative careers or further study
Course Structure
Year 1 Units (Level 4):
- Introduction to Visual Communication
- Theory as Practice 1
- Creative Image Making
- Typography
- Alternative Media & Thinking
Year 2 Units (Level 5):
Graphic Design Pathway:
- Graphic Design in 3D Contexts
- Corporate ID & Branding
- Self-directed Project
- Theory as Practice 2
- Navigating Professional Realities
Illustration Pathway:
- Illustration in 3D Contexts
- Narrative Illustration
- Self - Directed Project
- Theory as Practice 2
- Navigating Professional Realities
Year 3 Units (Level 6):
Both Pathways:
- Theory as Practice 3
- Industry-Led Brief
- Signature Project
- Professional Promotion
You will need a minimum of 64 UCAS points from one or more of the following:
- A Levels
- T Levels
- BTEC/UAL Extended Diploma
- Foundation Diploma in Art and Design (Level 3 or 4)
- Or equivalent EU/International qualifications such as International Baccalaureate Diploma
- Plus English GCSE at grade 4 or above (grade A*-C)
This list is not exhaustive other qualifications may be considered. Entry to this course will also be determined by the quality of your application looking primarily at your portfolio/showreel of work, personal statement and reference.
Applicants who do not meet these course entry requirements may still be considered in exceptional cases. The course team will consider each application that demonstrates additional strengths and alternative evidence.
Contact hours: 13 hours per week plus independent study (suggested 30 hours per week).
All assessment on the BA (Hons) Graphic Design & Illustration is via coursework, there are no exams.
Coursework is assessed in a range of different ways in order to accommodate a variety of learning styles and aptitudes.
You will receive:
- Ongoing feedback as part of your one-to-one sessions with your unit teachers
- Summative feedback on all formal assessments undertaken by coursework
Feedback is intended to help you learn and you are encouraged to discuss it with your unit leader. Feedback can be given in a variety of ways in to accommodate a variety of learning styles and aptitudes including group critiques, recorded verbal feedback and written feedback.
The cost of this course is £9,790 for 2027 entry.
The course is eligible for funding through Student Loans England, subject to status.
Fees are per academic year for Home/UK students.
The following course-related costs are included in the fees:
- Guest speakers, visiting lecturers and industry focussed workshops will be included in your course over the three years.
- Third Year students will have the opportunity to showcase their final year work at the end of their studies. This may be a local, national or online platform. Event/exhibition costs will be covered by the Faculty of HE. In the past this has included D&AD’s New Blood. Students will be responsible for any additional costs associated with the production of their personal project (ie: printing, materials)
- As part of the Industry Led-Brief in year three, internationally recognised competition briefs, such as D&AD’s New Blood may be entered. The Higher Education Department covers any entry costs
- The Graphic Design & Illustration course has course membership of the AOI (Association of Illustrators)
- Annual £40 of printing credit per year
Graduates progress into careers with design studios, media organisations and creative agencies, or choose to work as freelance designers and illustrators. Some continue their studies at master's level.
Students have also benefited from industry placements and live briefs with organisations including West Ham United and Magma Ludlum Creatives, as well as competitions such as the Penguin Design Awards and D&AD New Blood. Recent graduates have secured roles with companies including The Financial Times, IMG Media, Vevo and The Lotus Group.
3 years
Your Path to Success Starts Here
Be part of our community
Overall achievement rates (All learners)
90.2%
Ofstead good rating
A safe environment to learn
Qualifications earned per year
18232
Award-winning careers programe
State-of-the-art facilities
