Graphic Design (Swansea College of Art)

UCAS code: W210

Here's what University of Wales Trinity Saint David says about its Graphic Design (Swansea College of Art) course.

Immerse yourself in the potential of words and images that is central to our creative vision on BA(Hons) Graphic Design.

Graphic design touches our lives with a diversity like no other medium – it guides, instructs, entertains, provokes and influences us as we commute through, consume and consider the world around us. Indeed, it is this timely need for human understanding and questioning that underpins much of our teaching programme.

We embrace the new and celebrate the old – led by the requirements of the challenge at hand, the recognition of our audience and the formulation of an appropriate dialogue with which to transmit the messages of our clients. Digital technology sits happily with inky fingers and tactility, often combining powerfully and sometimes raising philosophical or contextual debate.

Essential principals of typography, format, layout, information navigation and core software skills are embedded in our project challenges, but your unique visual voice and playfulness is of equal importance. Smaller group sizes make for a vibrant dynamic in which each individual student is encouraged to pursue their own path rather than follow the herd.

Essential design principles such as typography, format, layout, information navigation, branding, sustainable packaging, and promotional design, along with core software skills, are embedded in our project challenges; however, your unique visual voice and playfulness are of equal importance. In addition to mastering these creative skills, you will delve into emotive design, ensuring that your work resonates emotionally with the target audience.

Smaller group sizes make for a vibrant dynamic in which each individual student is encouraged to pursue their own path rather than follow the herd. The staff team are design obsessives, and we love to share our passion in a supportive, friendly and lively studio atmosphere. We encourage the development of your verbal communication alongside the visual, producing graduates who can speak confidently about their work, articulate their approach to visual problem-solving and announce their aspirations.

We recognise the critical future focus of our students upon industry and careers. Portfolio building is a key part of your journey, as you gain practical experience through live briefs and professional practice. Workshops, collaborations, and visiting professionals will provide insight into the world of work. You will learn how to navigate the balance between digital design, print, and motion design, incorporating imagery effectively in your projects.

Alongside the technical, we also stress the importance of ethical awareness, cultural awareness, and historical awareness in the world of design, encouraging you to consider the broader impact of your work. Through these experiences, you will develop a solid business understanding and technique understanding, preparing you for real-world design challenges. You will also explore Design and Screen Cultures, reflecting on how visual communication shapes and responds to society. Your destination might add to our extensive list, including Apple, Adidas, Lego, Nike, Pepsi and Sky to name just a few.

Year One

In your first year, you will be introduced to the fundamentals of graphic design. You will learn about design principles, typography, imagery, and print. This year focuses on building creative skills and practical experience through hands-on projects. You will also start developing your portfolio, which is essential for showcasing your work.

Learning in the Digital Era (20 credits) Visual Studies 1 (10 credits) Ways of Thinking (10 credits) Contemporary Challenges: Making a Difference (20 credits) Visual Studies 2 (10 credits) Ways of Perceiving (10 credits) Typography (20 credits) Design for Publication (20 credits)

Year Two

The second year enhances your understanding of graphic design, with an emphasis on branding, user experience for web design, and the social impact of visual communication. The second year also aims to strengthen your problem-solving abilities through analytical and practical skills. Collaboration becomes a crucial component as you engage with challenging briefs, providing you with valuable real-world insights.

Changemakers: Creativity and Value Creation (20 credits) Research in Context (10 credits) Visual Enquiry 1 (10 credits) Changemakers: Building your Personal Brand for Sustainable Employment (20 credits) Research in Practice (10 credits) Visual Enquiry 2 (10 credits) Corporate Identity and Creative Branding (20 credits) Design for User Experience (20 credits)

Year Three

In your final year, you will refine your design abilities and focus on producing a professional portfolio. This year emphasises professional practice and preparing you for the industry with advanced projects incorporating cultural and ethical awareness. You will engage with Graduate Portfolio projects and have opportunities to showcase your work to potential employers, ensuring you graduate as an industry-ready professional.

Advanced Creative Enquiry (20 credits) Independent Project (40 credits) Graduate Portfolio (60 credits)

Assessment is carried out through coursework. There are no exams on this course. Students are formatively assessed throughout a module with summative assessment taking place at the end of a module. A variety of teaching and learning methods are used throughout the course which includes amongst others:

Informal tutorials, formal tutorials, group critiques, one-to-one meetings, exhibitions and presentations. All these assessments are supported by staff, and students are guided through each learning process.