UWE Bristol - BA Hons Graphic Design

UWE Bristol

BA Hons Graphic Design

Study in a studio environment with professional-standard facilities and the focus on the real-world skills you need to succeed in your career.
Why study graphic design?
Graphic design makes a powerful contribution to the cultural and economic life of contemporary society.
It exists in the public domain, acts as an indicator of current cultural thinking and is a catalyst for social, cultural and political change.
The role of the graphic designer in society and the professional world is multifaceted; designer as curator, author, craftsperson, editor, educator, collaborator and agitator.
Studying graphic design is excellent preparation for a creative career in the UK and abroad.
Why UWE Bristol?
BA(Hons) Graphic Design is based at the Arnolfini, at the heart of Bristol's creative and cultural community. You'll learn from practising graphic designers in a professional studio environment.
Past students have won awards in prestigious national competitions such as the Royal Society of Arts (RSA) Student Design Awards and the International Society of Typographic Designers (ISTD).
In recent years, graduates' work has been exhibited at D&AD New Blood, London, with several being identified as 'Ones to Watch' and commendations received for several collaborative projects.
Our students are also regularly shortlisted for the Best British Book Design and Production Awards.
Our City Campus is a powerhouse of inspiration and collaboration, and home to our many City Creatives. It spans Bristol and is made up of Bower Ashton and renowned contemporary arts centres Spike Island, Arnolfini and Watershed.
Our strong industry links with the thriving city of Bristol ensure ongoing input from professional designers, with extra mentoring support also on offer through the West of England Design Forum.
You won't be working on hypothetical designs. Projects are socially and culturally relevant, whether undertaken inside or outside the university.
Go on work placements and internships, or volunteer, to gain valuable workplace experience.
Attend talks from studios like OK/RM, Pentagram, Moving Brands, Mother London, Muf, APFEL and Book Works.
Showcase your work to talent scouts and potential employers at the final year Creative Industries Degree Show.
Focus on the avenues that most interest you, and graduate with an impressive portfolio of work, ready to make your mark in the industry.
Where can it take me?
This course prepares you for an idea-driven, sustainable and flexible freelance practice, or studio career in graphic design.
Many of our graduates find work with highly respected design studios in the UK and worldwide.
Others go on to further study, such as a master's in graphic design or graphic arts, or pursue a career in research or education.

Entry Requirements

  • Tariff points: 112
  • GCSE: Grade C/4 in English Literature or Language, or equivalent. We do not accept Level 2 Key Skills, Functional Skills or Certificates in Adult Literacy and Numeracy as suitable alternatives to GCSEs.
  • English Language Requirement: International and EU applicants are required to have a minimum overall IELTS (Academic) score of 6.0 with 5.5 in each component.
  • A-level subjects: No specific subjects required.

Career Prospects

Tailoring what and how you study, you can shape the course towards your chosen career path.

As this is an industry that's constantly evolving, we'll also prepare you for where the market is heading. You'll have the flexibility and breadth of skills to take your talents in different directions. 

Our students go on to successful careers as graphic designers, art directors, digital designers, creatives, studio managers and account managers for a range of high-profile studios and companies.

Recent graduates have found work at:

  • Eye Magazine
  • JWT Advertising
  • McCann Erickson
  • The Guardian
  • Two Times Elliot
  • The Times and Sunday Times
  • ·Undercurrent Brands
  • Esterson Associates
  • Studio Makgill
  • DRAFTFCB
  • Play Nicely.

Plus, Redhouse Lane Communications, Hello Charlie, Peloton, BDH, Dirty Design, Pentagram, NB:Studio, City ID, Think Public, Domain Associates, Telegram, dn&co, Oakwood, nerv interactive, YCN, Collision Films, Mind Design, Aardman Animations, and Plastic Horse.

Others become researchers, educators or go onto further study.

Course Details

Year 1

Introduction to Words and Images
Communicating with Words and Images
Critical Perspectives
Professional Practice and Work Experience 1.

Year two

Exploring Graphic Design Process
Creative Analysis.

Two optional modules
Developing Practice in Graphic Design or International Exchange
Professional Practice and Work Experience 2 or Collaborate.

Final Year

Preparation for Extended Study in Graphic Design or *Introduction to Level 3 Graphic Design
Extended Study in Graphic Design
Independent Research Project
Professional Practice and Work Experience 3

*The information’s are correct at the time of publishing, however it may change if university makes any changes after we have published the information. While we try our best to provide correct information, It is advisable to call us or visit university website for up to date information.

Are you ready to start building your future?

Contact our admission counseller and get a free consultation.