Programme Overview
The BA (Hons) Communication Design programme provides a dynamic, inclusive, and supportive learning environment that fully equips graduates as 21st-century designers, whether in professional studio practice or further academic study. The curriculum consists of an exciting range of project-based practical and theoretical courses, which vary in length within and across the two academic semesters each year. Stages 1 and 2 provide a solid, broad-based platform in research, experimentation and critical thinking ahead of choosing a specialist pathway for Stages 3 and 4. Pathways include Graphic Design, Illustration and Photography/lens-based practice. The programme supports students in developing knowledge and understanding to undertake sophisticated research and visual problem-solving. Students acquire appropriate skills to contribute to the broader international contexts and territories of communication design and the ability to respond sensitively to complex ethical, societal, and environmental challenges. The programme promotes a culture that recognises collaboration, interdisciplinary peer-learning, and independence as essential elements in the effective practice of Communication Design. The research, scholarly activity, and professional practice of staff directly inform the contemporary relevance of the programme. Within the programme, Studio courses provide a series of incremental project-based experiences with opportunities to reflect upon learning as it develops towards building a critical practice. Design History and Theory courses explore critical and contextual perspectives, and courses shared with other programmes, including Co-Lab and Design Domain, foster expanded perspectives by connecting broader domains of learning and knowledge. Opportunities for student international exchanges, collaborative learning, industry projects, and careers and enterprise experiences help support how students develop graduate skills and attributes. All GSA degree programmes are validated by the University of Glasgow.
