Structure
Course Structure
BA (Hons) Visual Communication combines these four specialist subjects:
- Graphic Communication
- Illustration
- Animation and Moving Image
- Photography
After a brief introduction to all subjects areas listed below students are then asked to select an area that best suits their long term career goals, interests and talents. Each subject follows the same pattern and structure, this allows for interdisciplinary practice and collaboration across disciplines.
It is our belief that students studying any one of these subjects will benefit from a greater understanding of other areas of Visual Communication. Opportunities to work with students and staff from other subjects, reflects the changes in the creative industries over the past decade.
All facilities and workshops, which include state of the art digital technology and traditional resources, like the photographic dark room and print room, are available to all students at any point throughout the course. This enables students to identify specific knowledge and skills that may facilitate the development and refinement of their unique area of expertise.
Modules
First year of study encourages students to gain confidence in their chosen discipline; this follows an introduction to common Visual Communication principles and a brief opportunity to gain a better insight into the range of subjects the course delivers.
The creative and technical aspects of the subject are underpinned by an exploration of the appropriate theories and philosophies, which explain, discuss and challenge our ideas about creative practice.
Second year of study looks to contextualises a student’s chosen discipline within specific aspects of contemporary practice. Live projects, industry links and competitions form a key part of the curriculum from this stage of the course. Students also get an opportunity to opt for a Collaborative Practice module, working with students from different areas.
To begin the preparation for final year study, students begin to focus on a more discreet area of specialism within their subject, working in smaller groups with a tutor with expertise in their chosen specialism. They also embark on research in to an area of employment, which matches their aspirations beyond graduation. This is supported by seminars and lectures from industry experts and practitioners who explore such areas as networking, freelance practice, entrepreneurship, self-promotion and introductory media.
Third year of study moves to negotiated projects and insists on greater autonomy and independence of study. Students develop sustained and individual bodies of work, supported by a greater depth of research and understanding, stimulated and contextualised by a dissertation.
The professional futures of all students are embedded in their project work and will be expertly articulated through a major project portfolio, the best of which is showcased in the graduate show. All students will also have an opportunity to be nominated for a Visual Communication Graduate Award. Recent sponsors of these awards have been industry leaders, such as illustrator Dave McKean, photographer Brian Griffin and Creative Director Trevor Beattie.
Assessments
Throughout the three years students will be exposed to a wide variety of approaches to learning.At the centre of these approaches is an expectation that all students take a lead on developing their own unique individual creative practice.
Self-motivation and initiative are characteristics valued by employers in the creative industries, any student wishing to be a successful practitioner must understand what is expected of them.
Directed Study is the cornerstone of learning, this is inspired and supported by lectures, seminars lead by staff or students, workshops, master-classes, group critiques, individual and group tutorials.
Assessments will be varied and will include practical and creative outcomes, visual and verbal presentations, written commentaries and essays, research and development work, demonstrated through sketchbooks or Reflective Visual Journals.
Placements
This BA (Hons) course supports fully directed study and the development of individual practice. There are opportunities for field trips and study abroad that will add value to the degree course.