MA Communication Design: Book Design Pathway at University of Reading

Programme overview

A pathway of the MA Communication Design that combines practical skills in book design with the study of historical and theoretical issues. It covers practical design for printed books and digital publishing, with studio projects set by practising designers and access to traditional and digital printing facilities. Students use the Department's special collections and archives and links with the London Centre for Book Arts.

Department: Department of Typography and Graphic Communication | Duration: 12 months full-time; 24 months part-time | Study mode: full-time / part-time | Location: Reading, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

Shared core elements are Reflective Practice and a Dissertation, with shared lectures, seminars and practical workshops on typography, research methods and the University's collections and archives, alongside pathway-specific design studio work. Projects engage with experimental publishing strategies and professional practice, and the dissertation focuses on an aspect of historical or contemporary book design.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Normally a good undergraduate honours degree (2.1 or above), or equivalent from a university outside the UK, in a design-related subject. For exceptional candidates without such a degree, convincing evidence of relevant professional experience is needed. In most cases a relevant practice portfolio and an example of academic writing are also required, and shortlisted applicants are usually invited for interview. The personal statement must show clear career goals aligned with the programme and pathway and the relevance of previous study, experience, portfolio and skills. International applicants: IELTS 6.5 overall with no element below 6.0 (or equivalent).

Domestic applicants: GBP 12,500 a year (2027/28). Full-time; part-time over two years charged at 50% of the annual fee each year. Source

International applicants: GBP 27,450 a year (2027/28). Full-time; part-time over two years charged at 50% of the annual fee each year. Source

Duration: 12 months full-time; 24 months part-time

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