Communication Design MA

Process 

You will explore your own creative practice through briefs and diagnostic challenges that build understanding of research methods, as well as their use and development as a tool for a critical, applied enquiry in contemporary design. 

(30 credits)

Purpose

You’ll develop and apply user-centred design principles as a practice-based research tool in response to a social innovation challenge, building and creating purposeful and impactful solutions for positive change in society.

(30 credits) 

Publish

In this module you will question the nature of the designed artefact in the public realm and how a design message can be created and curated to inform contemporary debate around a chosen global challenge. You will then produce work and share it on an appropriate external platform to provoke discussion, but also to inform your emerging personal direction. 

(30 credits)

Sustain 

This module will help you to position your emerging practice in relation to a variety of professional spheres, whilst also recognising a wider consciousness of key issues and themes affecting art and design today. You will explore applied practice through professionally orientated briefs that enable and question how contemporary communication design can be sustained effectively.  

(30 credits)

Complete

Your studies will culminate in the creation of a self-directed Final Major Project that draws on and builds from learning across the year, embedding critical awareness, academic depth and research rigour. 

The work is underpinned by a master’s critical essay, or strategic plan if a business-oriented project is chosen. 

(60 credits)

The MA takes place across a 45-week year, as three study blocks. You'll learn through individual tutorials, group discussions, critiques and workshops, while leading your own development as your creative voice develops across the year. Alongside highly experienced design tutors, you will also benefit from visiting lecturers from industry and research fields, our department guest speaker programme and an optional study trip normally to London. For this you’ll visit leading studios and encounter other cultural highlights. The course uses a variety of teaching approaches, emphasising a supportive and encouraging approach to dialogic learning, where new ideas can be shared and debated.  

Assessment methods

• Individual project briefs
• Competition briefs (eg. D&AD New Blood, RSA Student Design Awards, YCN Awards) 
• Design research journal
• Essay
• Individual and group presentations
• Critical review or business plan

We welcome applications from those with relevant equivalent Level 6 qualifications. Our typical applicants hold an undergraduate degree of 2:2 or above, or equivalent experience and an demonstrable interest in the subject.

We'll also welcome your application if you have formal or 'certified' learning (such as training courses not run by universities or colleges) and learning from work experience or self-study. This is called Accreditation of Prior Learning (APEL), and should have been gained within the last five years, and be equivalent to the learning outcomes of our minimum entry qualifications.

APEL applicants using experience to apply should note there is an application fee for entry with advanced standing or with exemption from specific modules or credit.

If English isn’t your first language, you'll need to demonstrate English language skills that are sufficiently developed for successful completion of your studies. We accept a range of recognised English language qualifications that are equivalent to the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) Academic minimum score of 6.5 overall, with a minimum of 6.0 in Speaking, and a minimum of 5.5 in Reading, Writing, and Listening. 

International applicants who require a student visa to study in the UK must take a recognised language test that is approved and vouched for by the University. Our Applicant Services Team can help with any questions you may have about study visas or suitable language tests.