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Please note: Last year of entry on this course is September 2024. For September 2025 entry, please visit: Graphic Design

Brave. Curious. Distinctive.

Our established and respected Graphic Design programme has a strong reputation for producing graduates with all the core skills required to succeed in industry.

On this programme you will hone your skills in conceptual thinking (ideas) and visual problem solving (designing) through reflective practice and creative methodologies. That is at the heart of what we do. Great ideas - well executed. You can explore many areas of the graphic design sphere with us, including image-creation, typography and layout, branding & packaging, and more... and start to develop your own interests and creative leaning.

You will develop your creative eye through thinking, making, crafting and realising your concepts to completion, whilst also having the opportunity to reflect on the social and environmental impact of your work. Our experienced course team will help you learn through established critique and feedback methods that are authentic and replicate industry practice. You’ll work on practical projects in a supportive, collaborative, and competitive studio environment, and grow into more confident graphic designers.

Upon graduation, you will be prepared for a career in Graphic Design, or in the many related design positions that a transferable and versatile skillset unlocks. Our graduates go on to succeed in all areas of this ever expanding and exciting subject we call Graphic Design.

Why choose Northumbria to study Graphic Design? 

Student Rated - Over 95% of Students studying Design at Northumbria believed their course positively challenged them to achieve their best work (NSS, 2024).

Excellent Careers Prospects - Graphic Design at Northumbria is ranked 2nd in the UK for Graduate Prospects (Guardian University Guide, 2024). This is because 93% of our graduates are in highly skilled employment or further study 15 months after graduation.

Research Power - Art and Design at Northumbria is ranked 4th in the UK for research power (REF, 2021). This is a rise of 6 places compared to 2014.

 

Northumbria’s Graphic Design learning experience

You’ll be taught by an established teaching team with many years’ experience in all aspects of Graphic Design, the creative industry and education.

You will have access to robust industry and alumni links, guest lectures, the opportunity to work on live briefs from leading consultancies, the brightest and best student competitions, plus the chance to embark on organised national and international field trips.

The Northumbria Graphic Design Course will essentially enable you to graduate as an accomplished and confident Graphic Designer with a creative portfolio that showcases your own personal creativity and skills.

Many of our previous students have had the opportunity to showcase their work in exhibitions across the country, and have picked up awards from globally recognised design shows, such as New Designers in London.

Register for Graphic Design course updates


 

See other similar courses you may be interested in: Furniture and Product Design or be sure to check out our other Design Courses to find more.

Course Information

UCAS Code
W210

Level of Study
Undergraduate

Mode of Study
3 years Full Time or 4 years with a placement (sandwich)/study abroad

Department
Northumbria School of Design, Arts and Creative Industries

Location
City Campus, Northumbria University

City
Newcastle

Start
September 2024

Fees
Fee Information

Modules
Module Information

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This course is eligible for a scholarship

find out more →

Graphic Design / Meet our students

Take a look at what our students are creating and what some of your learning will look like.

Graphic Design BA (Hons) / Digital Portfolio Guide

We are interested in what inspires you, who inspires you and how you communicate that enthusiasm through your statement and your work.

Department / Northumbria School of Design

Find out more about our department.

Delve Deeper / Discover more about life at Northumbria

Book an Open Day / Experience Graphic Design BA (Hons)

Visit an Open Day to get an insight into what it's like to study Graphic Design. Speak to staff and students from the course and get a tour of the facilities.

Entry Requirements Modules Overview Fees, Funding  and Scholarships How to Apply Apply Now

Entry Requirements 2024/25

Standard Entry

120 UCAS Tariff points

From a combination of acceptable Level 3 qualifications which may include: A-level, T Level, BTEC Diplomas/Extended Diplomas, Scottish and Irish Highers, Access to HE Diplomas, or the International Baccalaureate.

Find out how many points your qualifications are worth by using the UCAS Tariff calculator: www.ucas.com/ucas/tariff-calculator

Northumbria University is committed to supporting all individuals to achieve their ambitions. We have a range of schemes and alternative offers to make sure as many individuals as possible are given an opportunity to study at our University regardless of personal circumstances or background. To find out more, review our Northumbria Entry Requirement Essential Information page for further details www.northumbria.ac.uk/entryrequirementsinfo

Subject Requirements:

There are no specific subject requirements for this course.

GCSE Requirements:

Applicants will need Maths and English Language at minimum grade 4/C, or an equivalent.

Additional Requirements:

A portfolio of creative design work is required. Get advice on preparing your portfolio here: www.northumbria.ac.uk/study-at-northumbria/coming-to-northumbria/portfolios-and-auditions

International Qualifications:

We welcome applicants with a range of qualifications which may not match those shown above.

If you have qualifications from outside the UK, find out what you need by visiting www.northumbria.ac.uk/yourcountry

English Language Requirements:

International applicants should have a minimum overall IELTS (Academic) score of 6.0 with 5.5 in each component (or an approved equivalent*).

*The university accepts a large number of UK and International Qualifications in place of IELTS. You can find details of acceptable tests and the required grades in our English Language section: www.northumbria.ac.uk/englishqualifications

For further admissions guidance and requirements, please visit www.northumbria.ac.uk/admissionsguidance Please review this information before submitting your application.

Fees and Funding 2024/25 Entry

UK Fee in Year 1: £9,250

* The maximum tuition fee that we are permitted to charge for UK students is set by government. Tuition fees may increase in each subsequent academic year of your course, these are subject to government regulations and in line with inflation.


EU Fee in Year 1: £18,250

International Fee in Year 1: £18,250


Please see the main Funding Pages for 24/25 scholarship information.

 


ADDITIONAL COSTS

These things are necessary but will vary depending on the student and their projects: Black A2/A3 Portfolio - £25 Approx (one off cost) A3 Colour Printing - £20py Approx A3 Layout pad, pencils, pens, scalpel etc. These things are optional but desirable to enhance the student experience: Field trips (one trip per year: London, Amsterdam or Barcelona for example – studio visits - subject to Covid-19) - £250py Approx In final year you may need to purchase materials for your Final Major Project. Costs will vary according to individual needs. You may also incur exhibition costs for your final show such as travel, accommodation, etc.

If you’d like to receive the latest updates from Northumbria about our courses, events, finance & funding then enter your details below.

* At Northumbria we are strongly committed to protecting the privacy of personal data. To view the University’s Privacy Notice please click here

How to Apply

Please use the Apply Now button at the top of this page to submit your application.

Certain applications may need to be submitted via an external application system, such as UCAS, Lawcabs or DfE Apply.

The Apply Now button will redirect you to the relevant website if this is the case.

You can find further application advice, such as what to include in your application and what happens after you apply, on our Admissions Hub Admissions | Northumbria University



Modules Overview 2024/25

Modules

Module information is indicative and is reviewed annually therefore may be subject to change. Applicants will be informed if there are any changes.

Year one Year two Year three Year four

Year one

DE4017 -

Design History, Context and Theory (Core,20 Credits)

This module introduces you to your design discipline from social and historical perspectives and details its subsequent evolution in culture towards the digitally mediated mixed realities of the 21st century. At the same time, you will become familiar with key issues such as ethics, social responsibility, intersectionality and multiculturism. You will also be introduced to key analytical and research methods that underpin and will strengthen your reflective and critical skills as a developing designer.

More information

GD4007 -

BOOTCAMP 1: Think like a Graphic Designer (Core,40 Credits)

Through a series of short, fast-paced briefs you will be introduced to the intellectual fundamentals and creative processes involved within the practice of Graphic Design.
You will gain an understanding of the essential methods and processes that underpin the subject. The module gives you an introduction to the intellectual and creative philosophy of Graphic Design and fosters an understanding of the cognitive processes of visual problem solving and conceptual thinking required to be a Graphic Designer. This will be accomplished by your introduction to the various methods and approaches that can be employed as part of the design process. It will give you a greater understanding of the fundamentals of Graphic Design, including, amongst other things, the importance of typography, semiotics, layout, image curation, narrative and storytelling. These are all taught as a means of communication and as essential component in the subject of Graphic Design.

More information

GD4008 -

BOOTCAMP 2: Work like a Graphic Designer (Core,40 Credits)

In this module you will build on the design thinking, skills and knowledge gained in ‘Bootcamp One’ by engaging with approaches to identifying design problems and by further developing your ability to respond to them typographically and creatively. You will develop the verbal and visual communication skills needed to present your work and collaborate effectively through presentations and group work (where appropriate). You will also continue developing the appropriate research skills for both practical design work and continuing academic study.

More information

GD4009 -

THE TOOLKIT: Being Prepared (Core,20 Credits)

In this module, you will have the opportunity to learn about the expressive and creative potential offered by graphic design technical processes and techniques. These will be further enhanced by introductions to a variety of Graphic Design technical processes in a blend of workshop and on-line environments.
You will be encouraged to recognise how learning through challenging Graphic Design technical processes in this module can underpin novel and experimental approaches to problem-based work throughout the Graphic Design programme.

More information

YB5001 -

Academic Language Skills for Design (Core – for International and EU students only,0 Credits)

Academic skills when studying away from your home country can differ due to cultural and language differences in teaching and assessment practices. This module is designed to support your transition in the use and practice of technical language and subject specific skills around assessments and teaching provision in your chosen subject. The overall aim of this module is to develop your abilities to read and study effectively for academic purposes; to develop your skills in analysing and using source material in seminars and academic writing and to develop your use and application of language and communications skills to a higher level.

The topics you will cover on the module include:

• Understanding assignment briefs and exam questions.
• Developing academic writing skills, including citation, paraphrasing, and summarising.
• Practising ‘critical reading’ and ‘critical writing’
• Planning and structuring academic assignments (e.g. essays, reports and presentations).
• Avoiding academic misconduct and gaining credit by using academic sources and referencing effectively.
• Listening skills for lectures.
• Speaking in seminar presentations.
• Presenting your ideas
• Giving discipline-related academic presentations, experiencing peer observation, and receiving formative feedback.
• Speed reading techniques.
• Developing self-reflection skills.

More information

Year two

DE5016 -

Contemporary Design and Critical Issues (Core,20 Credits)

The module debates and reflects on key emerging trends and sector challenges situated within your design discipline, and functions as an important precursor to your final year study.

This explorative module builds on your insights from the first year and continues the discussion of design’s sociocultural impact on the world. In the first half of the module, your tutors will present for debate examples of advanced practice and research that will showcase these impacts. In the second half of the module, you will be introduced to a range of social science methods that are currently being used in human-centred design practices. This will help you to understand better the dynamics of human behaviour and how it may be applied in your future design practice. By the end of the module, you will have begun explorative research into a design problem, setting or theme of your own choosing that can be further developed during your final year modules.

More information

GD5012 -

DIFFERENTIATION: What makes you, you! (Core,20 Credits)

This module introduces you to the professional context and how to place yourself and promote yourself within it.
It will give you the opportunity to undertake the following:
Design report preparation
You will complete a 500-word written assignment and attend supporting seminars which are designed to equip you with the ability to review what subject areas are important to your developing professional interests and identity as a Graphic Designer. This proposal will become the framework for the Design Report a 6000-word independent research project that you will complete in your final year.

This will enable you to develop a professional attitude to emerging contexts, enhancing your opportunities for placement and employment.
Experience lectures by professional practice speakers
Professional speakers from related industries will help develop your critical awareness of the design related industries, an understanding of responsible design and/or professional practice, as well as developing your awareness of employment context within the design profession. This module will also reinforce the various opportunities that professional studios offer to graduates as well as an awareness of the professional and ethical responsibilities of the designer/illustrator.

Portfolio preparation
You will learn how to design a finished portfolio, prepared and presented to a high standard. This process gives the you an opportunity to reflect upon what you have achieved so far on the programme, assess your development, and gain confidence in presenting your work critically, visually and verbally, building on your strengths and addressing your weaknesses.

You will be asked to consider your aspirations as Graphic Designers, research the professional environment and design pieces that which will showcase you and your work to an identified and relevant audience in a convincing and compelling way.

More information

GD5013 -

IMPLICATION: Can Graphic Design Saves Lives? (Core,40 Credits)

This module will enable you to focus on the positive social and cultural impacts of Graphic Design practice. The design solutions that practitioners create can help change lives, human behaviours, and culture within societies.
Graphic Designers have been at the forefront of facilitating modern societal change for over a 100-years across the world. In this module, you will build on this legacy by choosing from a set of briefs that cover design manifestos, ethical and sustainable design, designing for the third sector (charities and NGOs), etc. You will use your developing creative skills to impact positively on other people’s lives.
You will research your chosen sector and use the skills and knowledge acquired so far, along with your technical skills to design an appropriate, creative and meaningful solution.

More information

GD5014 -

IMPLEMENTATION: what can you accomplish? (Core,40 Credits)

This module builds upon the knowledge and skills acquired so far on the course and gives you the opportunity to consolidate your learning and explore the more specific areas of Graphic Design that interest you.
A number of briefs will be offered which accommodate opportunities to take a more specialist approach, or a more generalist approach to the subject area. This will be your first opportunity to tackle a substantial brief of this nature in a chosen area and will result in a significant project for your portfolio at the end of the year.
This project will also help you to reflect upon your progress so far, the aspects of Graphic Design that you have found most rewarding, most challenging and most enjoyable. This process will help you to set your trajectory through 3rd year, giving a focus to your journey through the course.

More information

Year three

AD5005 -

Design Work Placement Year (Optional,120 Credits)

The Work Placement Year module is a 120 credit year-long module available on degree courses which include a work placement year, taken as an additional year of study at level 5 and before level 6 (the length of the placement(s) will be determined by your programme but it can be no less than 30 weeks. You will undertake a guided work placement at a host organisation. This is a Pass/Fail module and so does not contribute to classification. When taken and passed, however, the Placement Year is recognised in your transcript as a 120 credit Work Placement Module and on your degree certificate in the format – “Degree title (with Work Placement Year)”. The learning and teaching on your placement will be recorded in the work placement agreement signed by the placement provider, the student, and the University.

Note: Subject to placement clearance; this is a competitive process and a place on the module cannot be guaranteed.

More information

AD5006 -

Design Study Abroad Year (Optional,120 Credits)

The Study Abroad Year module is a full year 120 credit module which is available on degree courses which include a study abroad year which is taken as an additional year of study at level 5 and before level 6. You will undertake a year abroad at a partner university equivalent to 120 UK credits This gives you access to modules from your discipline taught in a different learning culture and so broadens your overall experience of learning. The course of study abroad will be dependent on the partner and will be recorded for an individual student on the learning agreement signed by the host University, the student, and the home University (Northumbria). Your study abroad year will be assessed on a pass/fail basis. It will not count towards your final degree classification but, if you pass, it is recognised in your transcript as a 120 credit Study Abroad Module and on your degree certificate in the format – “Degree title (with Study Abroad Year)”.

Note: Subject to placement clearance; this is a competitive process and a place on the module cannot be guaranteed.

More information

Year four

DE6017 -

Future Practice in Context (Core,20 Credits)

This module will help you deliver a body of new design-led research that will underpin and provide criticality and context to your final self-initiated studio practice. We will support you by offering refresher online and live lectures, presentations and seminars on a selection of interdisciplinary methods and contemporary design challenges as a way to help you finalise and finesse your critical contextual research project in advance of your writing up of the project.

More information

GD6014 -

REALISATION: Industry Briefs (Core,40 Credits)

You will continue to develop and explore your knowledge and intellectual understanding of the creative process underpinning Graphic Design at an advanced level of study. The module fosters a deep understanding of the cognitive processes and visual problem solving required within the field of Graphic Design. This will be accomplished by your selection from a range of intellectually stimulating and suitably complex professional “live briefs” – projects set by industry partners, professional design educational bodies, or related organisations.

More information

GD6015 -

SUMMATION Final Major Project (Core,60 Credits)

This final module will be the culmination of your undergraduate studies and will give you the opportunity to showcase your abilities within your chosen area of Graphic Design.
The module provides you with the opportunity to plan, develop and produce a significant body of work over a whole semester. The module allows you to consolidate and utilise the skills, knowledge and experience you have gained throughout the course and provides you with a unique opportunity to create a highly developed, intellectually stimulating and fully resolved body of work that will be an important part of your portfolio and will help you ascertain your creative direction as you work towards your future career, or further study.
You will need to use your skills in organisation, management and communication alongside the technical, creative and conceptual skills you have gained throughout the course. Projects need to be resolved to the high conceptual and technical standards demanded by the profession.

Briefs can be from a range of sources including competition set briefs, industry set briefs, staff set briefs or self-initiated briefs which allow you to explore and develop your skills in a particular area of Graphic Design. All briefs proposed must reflect 600hrs of study and be approved by staff prior to the start of the project.

More information

Modules Overview 2025/26

Modules

Module information is indicative and is reviewed annually therefore may be subject to change. Applicants will be informed if there are any changes.

Year one Year two Year three Year four

Year one

DE4017 -

Design History, Context and Theory (Core,20 Credits)

This module introduces you to your design discipline from social and historical perspectives and details its subsequent evolution in culture towards the digitally mediated mixed realities of the 21st century. At the same time, you will become familiar with key issues such as ethics, social responsibility, intersectionality and multiculturism. You will also be introduced to key analytical and research methods that underpin and will strengthen your reflective and critical skills as a developing designer.

More information

GD4007 -

BOOTCAMP 1: Think like a Graphic Designer (Core,40 Credits)

Through a series of short, fast-paced briefs you will be introduced to the intellectual fundamentals and creative processes involved within the practice of Graphic Design.
You will gain an understanding of the essential methods and processes that underpin the subject. The module gives you an introduction to the intellectual and creative philosophy of Graphic Design and fosters an understanding of the cognitive processes of visual problem solving and conceptual thinking required to be a Graphic Designer. This will be accomplished by your introduction to the various methods and approaches that can be employed as part of the design process. It will give you a greater understanding of the fundamentals of Graphic Design, including, amongst other things, the importance of typography, semiotics, layout, image curation, narrative and storytelling. These are all taught as a means of communication and as essential component in the subject of Graphic Design.

More information

GD4008 -

BOOTCAMP 2: Work like a Graphic Designer (Core,40 Credits)

In this module you will build on the design thinking, skills and knowledge gained in ‘Bootcamp One’ by engaging with approaches to identifying design problems and by further developing your ability to respond to them typographically and creatively. You will develop the verbal and visual communication skills needed to present your work and collaborate effectively through presentations and group work (where appropriate). You will also continue developing the appropriate research skills for both practical design work and continuing academic study.

More information

GD4009 -

THE TOOLKIT: Being Prepared (Core,20 Credits)

In this module, you will have the opportunity to learn about the expressive and creative potential offered by graphic design technical processes and techniques. These will be further enhanced by introductions to a variety of Graphic Design technical processes in a blend of workshop and on-line environments.
You will be encouraged to recognise how learning through challenging Graphic Design technical processes in this module can underpin novel and experimental approaches to problem-based work throughout the Graphic Design programme.

More information

YB5001 -

Academic Language Skills for Design (Core – for International and EU students only,0 Credits)

Academic skills when studying away from your home country can differ due to cultural and language differences in teaching and assessment practices. This module is designed to support your transition in the use and practice of technical language and subject specific skills around assessments and teaching provision in your chosen subject. The overall aim of this module is to develop your abilities to read and study effectively for academic purposes; to develop your skills in analysing and using source material in seminars and academic writing and to develop your use and application of language and communications skills to a higher level.

The topics you will cover on the module include:

• Understanding assignment briefs and exam questions.
• Developing academic writing skills, including citation, paraphrasing, and summarising.
• Practising ‘critical reading’ and ‘critical writing’
• Planning and structuring academic assignments (e.g. essays, reports and presentations).
• Avoiding academic misconduct and gaining credit by using academic sources and referencing effectively.
• Listening skills for lectures.
• Speaking in seminar presentations.
• Presenting your ideas
• Giving discipline-related academic presentations, experiencing peer observation, and receiving formative feedback.
• Speed reading techniques.
• Developing self-reflection skills.

More information

Year two

DE5016 -

Contemporary Design and Critical Issues (Core,20 Credits)

The module debates and reflects on key emerging trends and sector challenges situated within your design discipline, and functions as an important precursor to your final year study.

This explorative module builds on your insights from the first year and continues the discussion of design’s sociocultural impact on the world. In the first half of the module, your tutors will present for debate examples of advanced practice and research that will showcase these impacts. In the second half of the module, you will be introduced to a range of social science methods that are currently being used in human-centred design practices. This will help you to understand better the dynamics of human behaviour and how it may be applied in your future design practice. By the end of the module, you will have begun explorative research into a design problem, setting or theme of your own choosing that can be further developed during your final year modules.

More information

GD5012 -

DIFFERENTIATION: What makes you, you! (Core,20 Credits)

This module introduces you to the professional context and how to place yourself and promote yourself within it.
It will give you the opportunity to undertake the following:
Design report preparation
You will complete a 500-word written assignment and attend supporting seminars which are designed to equip you with the ability to review what subject areas are important to your developing professional interests and identity as a Graphic Designer. This proposal will become the framework for the Design Report a 6000-word independent research project that you will complete in your final year.

This will enable you to develop a professional attitude to emerging contexts, enhancing your opportunities for placement and employment.
Experience lectures by professional practice speakers
Professional speakers from related industries will help develop your critical awareness of the design related industries, an understanding of responsible design and/or professional practice, as well as developing your awareness of employment context within the design profession. This module will also reinforce the various opportunities that professional studios offer to graduates as well as an awareness of the professional and ethical responsibilities of the designer/illustrator.

Portfolio preparation
You will learn how to design a finished portfolio, prepared and presented to a high standard. This process gives the you an opportunity to reflect upon what you have achieved so far on the programme, assess your development, and gain confidence in presenting your work critically, visually and verbally, building on your strengths and addressing your weaknesses.

You will be asked to consider your aspirations as Graphic Designers, research the professional environment and design pieces that which will showcase you and your work to an identified and relevant audience in a convincing and compelling way.

More information

GD5013 -

IMPLICATION: Can Graphic Design Saves Lives? (Core,40 Credits)

This module will enable you to focus on the positive social and cultural impacts of Graphic Design practice. The design solutions that practitioners create can help change lives, human behaviours, and culture within societies.
Graphic Designers have been at the forefront of facilitating modern societal change for over a 100-years across the world. In this module, you will build on this legacy by choosing from a set of briefs that cover design manifestos, ethical and sustainable design, designing for the third sector (charities and NGOs), etc. You will use your developing creative skills to impact positively on other people’s lives.
You will research your chosen sector and use the skills and knowledge acquired so far, along with your technical skills to design an appropriate, creative and meaningful solution.

More information

GD5014 -

IMPLEMENTATION: what can you accomplish? (Core,40 Credits)

This module builds upon the knowledge and skills acquired so far on the course and gives you the opportunity to consolidate your learning and explore the more specific areas of Graphic Design that interest you.
A number of briefs will be offered which accommodate opportunities to take a more specialist approach, or a more generalist approach to the subject area. This will be your first opportunity to tackle a substantial brief of this nature in a chosen area and will result in a significant project for your portfolio at the end of the year.
This project will also help you to reflect upon your progress so far, the aspects of Graphic Design that you have found most rewarding, most challenging and most enjoyable. This process will help you to set your trajectory through 3rd year, giving a focus to your journey through the course.

More information

Year three

AD5005 -

Design Work Placement Year (Optional,120 Credits)

The Work Placement Year module is a 120 credit year-long module available on degree courses which include a work placement year, taken as an additional year of study at level 5 and before level 6 (the length of the placement(s) will be determined by your programme but it can be no less than 30 weeks. You will undertake a guided work placement at a host organisation. This is a Pass/Fail module and so does not contribute to classification. When taken and passed, however, the Placement Year is recognised in your transcript as a 120 credit Work Placement Module and on your degree certificate in the format – “Degree title (with Work Placement Year)”. The learning and teaching on your placement will be recorded in the work placement agreement signed by the placement provider, the student, and the University.

Note: Subject to placement clearance; this is a competitive process and a place on the module cannot be guaranteed.

More information

AD5006 -

Design Study Abroad Year (Optional,120 Credits)

The Study Abroad Year module is a full year 120 credit module which is available on degree courses which include a study abroad year which is taken as an additional year of study at level 5 and before level 6. You will undertake a year abroad at a partner university equivalent to 120 UK credits This gives you access to modules from your discipline taught in a different learning culture and so broadens your overall experience of learning. The course of study abroad will be dependent on the partner and will be recorded for an individual student on the learning agreement signed by the host University, the student, and the home University (Northumbria). Your study abroad year will be assessed on a pass/fail basis. It will not count towards your final degree classification but, if you pass, it is recognised in your transcript as a 120 credit Study Abroad Module and on your degree certificate in the format – “Degree title (with Study Abroad Year)”.

Note: Subject to placement clearance; this is a competitive process and a place on the module cannot be guaranteed.

More information

Year four

DE6017 -

Future Practice in Context (Core,20 Credits)

This module will help you deliver a body of new design-led research that will underpin and provide criticality and context to your final self-initiated studio practice. We will support you by offering refresher online and live lectures, presentations and seminars on a selection of interdisciplinary methods and contemporary design challenges as a way to help you finalise and finesse your critical contextual research project in advance of your writing up of the project.

More information

GD6014 -

REALISATION: Industry Briefs (Core,40 Credits)

You will continue to develop and explore your knowledge and intellectual understanding of the creative process underpinning Graphic Design at an advanced level of study. The module fosters a deep understanding of the cognitive processes and visual problem solving required within the field of Graphic Design. This will be accomplished by your selection from a range of intellectually stimulating and suitably complex professional “live briefs” – projects set by industry partners, professional design educational bodies, or related organisations.

More information

GD6015 -

SUMMATION Final Major Project (Core,60 Credits)

This final module will be the culmination of your undergraduate studies and will give you the opportunity to showcase your abilities within your chosen area of Graphic Design.
The module provides you with the opportunity to plan, develop and produce a significant body of work over a whole semester. The module allows you to consolidate and utilise the skills, knowledge and experience you have gained throughout the course and provides you with a unique opportunity to create a highly developed, intellectually stimulating and fully resolved body of work that will be an important part of your portfolio and will help you ascertain your creative direction as you work towards your future career, or further study.
You will need to use your skills in organisation, management and communication alongside the technical, creative and conceptual skills you have gained throughout the course. Projects need to be resolved to the high conceptual and technical standards demanded by the profession.

Briefs can be from a range of sources including competition set briefs, industry set briefs, staff set briefs or self-initiated briefs which allow you to explore and develop your skills in a particular area of Graphic Design. All briefs proposed must reflect 600hrs of study and be approved by staff prior to the start of the project.

More information

To start your application, simply select the month you would like to start your course.

Graphic Design BA (Hons)

Home or EU applicants please apply through UCAS

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International applicants please apply using the links below

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SEPTEMBER

2024

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Any Questions?

Our Applicant Services team will be happy to help.  They can be contacted on 0191 406 0901 or by using our Contact Form.



Accessibility and Student Inclusion

Northumbria University is committed to developing an inclusive, diverse and accessible campus and wider University community and are determined to ensure that opportunities we provide are open to all.

We are proud to work in partnership with AccessAble to provide Detailed Access Guides to our buildings and facilities across our City, Coach Lane and London Campuses. A Detailed Access Guide lets you know what access will be like when you visit somewhere. It looks at the route you will use getting in and what is available inside. All guides have Accessibility Symbols that give you a quick overview of what is available, and photographs to show you what to expect. The guides are produced by trained surveyors who visit our campuses annually to ensure you have trusted and accurate information.

You can use Northumbria’s AccessAble Guides anytime to check the accessibility of a building or facility and to plan your routes and journeys. Search by location, building or accessibility feature to find the information you need. 

We are dedicated to helping students who may require additional support during their student journey and offer 1-1 advice and guidance appropriate to individual requirements. If you feel you may need additional support you can find out more about what we offer here where you can also contact us with any questions you may have:

Accessibility support

Student Inclusion support




If you’d like to receive the latest updates from Northumbria about our courses, events, finance & funding then enter your details below.

* At Northumbria we are strongly committed to protecting the privacy of personal data. To view the University’s Privacy Notice please click here

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Northumbria Open Days

Open Days are a great way for you to get a feel of the University, the city of Newcastle upon Tyne and the course(s) you are interested in.

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NU World Virtual Tours
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Virtual Tour

Get an insight into life at Northumbria at the click of a button! Come and explore our videos and 360 panoramas to immerse yourself in our campuses and get a feel for what it is like studying here using our interactive virtual tour.

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