UWE - Graphic Design

Award Leader: Julie Depledge
UCAS code: E211

Introduction

This three year full-time degree is concerned with the communication of ideas and information through graphic media. Students are encouraged to explore and develop an individual approach to formulating visual language.

The Faculty's facilities include comprehensive video and animation resources, printing, photographic workshops, and extensive computer and digital media. Teaching is through projects, lectures, seminars and tutorials.

Studies in Visual Culture form an integral part of the Graphic Design programme. A primary objective is to promote a deeper understanding of verbal and visual material by means of analysis and critical enquiry. Other objectives are to encourage students to communicate clearly and effectively, and to develop social and environmental awareness.

Students entering the award will be expected to provide themselves with appropriate equipment. They will be required to undertake visits and field studies as an integral part of the programme of study, and will be required to contribute towards the costs.

Programme Content

Year 1

In Year 1 students are offered mandatory and elective modules which introduce visual communication ideas and techniques, and provide experience of solving graphic problems through an understanding of imagemaking, print processes, letterforms and typography, photography, computer graphics and moving image.

Year 2

In Year 2 students are encouraged to develop and expand their knowledge of the subject, and to begin to consider the professional aspects of graphic design practice. Mandatory and elective modules provide opportunities for exploring particular areas of interest, such as print, typography, computer graphics, animation, video, photography and interactive multimedia. Study exchanges with European colleges of Art and Design are available as part of the EU funded SOCRATES programme, and European work placements are available through the LEONARDO programme.

Year 3

Year 3 prepares students to undertake a self-directed programme of work and to examine a range of professional practice which reflects their individual interests.

All students undertake a special study in Visual Culture which entails researching and presenting material. This usually takes the form of a written dissertation.

Assessment

A variety of assessment methods is used including projects, essays, group presentations and viva voce. All modules are assessed and marks from modules undertaken in Year 2 and Year 3 can contribute to the final award.

Careers

The graphic design profession and the field of communications are currently experiencing rapid and radical change. The award curriculum is broadly based and yet allows for specialisms. It encourages students to explore individual directions and also to participate as members of a team to undertake more complex multimedia projects. In this way it provides an excellent preparation for an interesting and rewarding future career.

Entry Requirements

Please refer to information on general entry requirements. Additional typical requirements and conditions for this course:- 5 GCSE, or A-level and 3 GCSE, or 2 A-level and 2 GCSE, or 3 A-level and evidence of other subjects studied; A-level ARt or Design and Techology; BTEC General or Foundation Art and Design; Access course acceptable; Advanced GNVQ level pass in Art and Design; European Baccalaureate 60%; International Baccalaureate 24%; Irish Leaving Certificate Higher grade CC; Scottish Highers CC.

Further Information

If you would like to know more about this award, please contact the Faculty of Art, Media and Design, telephone 0117 966 0222.

Document authored by Jo Paker
Last update: 06/06/97

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