BA (Hons) Graphic Design at University of Brighton

Programme overview

This is an innovative course with a reputation for producing ambitious and bold designers who communicate, inform, entertain and challenge the status quo. Exploration, experimentation and finding your creative voice are at the heart of our Graphic Design degree course. You’ll study in the dynamic school of art and media, with opportunities to collaborate and develop an understanding of visual communication in both theory and practice.

Faculty: School of Art and Media | Department: Visual Communication | Duration: full-time: 3 years; with placement year: 4 years | Study mode: full-time (optional placement year) | Intake: 2027 entry | Location: Brighton, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

Year 1 introduces you to the key concepts of visual communication in graphic design. Through a series of studio-based projects and workshops in computing, letterpress, photography and book arts, you will begin to develop your own visual language. This module provides an introduction to the key concepts and practices of graphic design. You will look at the history, cultural contexts, approaches, practices and techniques that inform graphic design and explore creativity and design approaches through experimentation. You will also critically reflect on your practice through guided and independent study. Modules include Introduction to Graphic Design, Cultural Contexts in Graphic Design, Graphic Design: Media and Messages, Contemporary Contexts in Graphic Design, Graphic Design: Modes of Communication, Global Challenges – Visual Communication, Graphic Design: Audiences and Contexts, Ethical and Personal Responsibilities in Graphic Design, Independent Graphic Design Practice, Critical Graphic Design Research Project.

Career pathways

There are also opportunities for postgraduate study at the University of Brighton, for example: As part of our Future Selves employability week of events, Graphic Design graduate Charlie Sheppard spoke to students about his career. We chatted with him afterwards about his time at Brighton, his advice for graduates and what he’s been doing since.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Your portfolio. Your portfolio is the most important part of your application for this course. Your grades do matter so you’ll still need to work hard but they’re not the only thing we take into account. Every application is considered individually. Even if your predicted or actual grades are below our usual range, we will review your application if your portfolio shows high-quality work and demonstrates your thinking and abilities. A-levels ABB–BCC. BTEC Extended Diploma DDM–MMM. UCAS tariff 104–128 points. Art foundation diploma Pass. A foundation diploma is not a requirement for entry – it is just one of a range of qualifications that is accepted for admission to this course. International Baccalaureate 27 points, with three subjects at Higher level. Access to HE Diploma Pass with 60 credits overall. Art and design courses preferred. At least 45 credits at level 3, and 30 credits must be at merit or above. T-level Merit in any T-level. Foundation degree/HND/degree May enable you to start the course in year 2 or later depending on the qualification you hold and the level of your creative and practical experience. English language requirements. If English is not your first language, IELTS 6.0 overall with a minimum of 5.5 in each element.

Domestic applicants: GBP 9,790 a year (2026/27). First-year tuition fee, full-time; fees may rise in later years. Source

International applicants: GBP 18,108 a year (2026/27). First-year tuition fee, full-time; fees may rise in later years. Source

Intake: 2027 entry

Duration: full-time: 3 years; with placement year: 4 years

Apply through the official page: https://www.ucas.com/ucas/undergraduate/register

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