The UK has a rich history and tradition of graphic design, dating back to the Industrial Revolution and the Arts and Crafts movement. Graphic design courses in the UK have always been way ahead in terms of innovation and creativity. It certainly has to do with the diverse and dynamic graphic design landscape in the UK. According to the Design Council, the UK design economy generated 85.2 billion GBP in gross value added (GVA) in 2018, which was 73% more than the UK average. The UK is also home to some of the world’s leading graphic design studios and agencies, such as Pentagram, The Partners, Wolff Olins, etc.
The interest and appeal of graphic design in the modern world are growing as technology and media evolve. Graphic design is an essential part of modern digital experiences, such as websites, apps, games, social media, and interactive installations. The best universities in the UK for graphic design offer high-quality programs, experienced faculty, and cutting-edge facilities that can provide an excellent education in graphic design.
There is no better time to study graphic design than now! In this article, we will look at some of the best graphic design programs in the UK, along with their tuition fees, eligibility, and more.
Overview of Graphic Design Courses in the UK
No. of Universities | 50+ |
No. of Programs | 100+ |
Duration of Programs | Bachelors: 3 or 4 years
Master’s: 1 year |
Degrees Offered | BA, MA |
Tuition Fees (2023/24) | 16,000-35,000 GBP |
Why Study Graphic Design Courses in the UK?
Rich Design History: The UK has a rich design history, with influential movements like the Arts and Crafts movement, the Bauhaus school’s impact, and the emergence of iconic British design styles. Studying in the UK allows you to immerse yourself in this design heritage and gain insights into the evolution of graphic design.
Diverse Creative Community: London, in particular, is a global hub for the creative industry, including graphic design. You’ll meet with a diverse and vibrant creative community, with opportunities for internships, collaborations, and networking with professionals in the field.
Industry Connections: Many UK universities have strong connections with industry partners, providing students with opportunities for real-world projects and internships. This exposure can help you build a portfolio and establish connections within the graphic design industry.
Access to Creative Events: The UK hosts numerous design-related events, exhibitions, and conferences throughout the year, including London Design Festival and Graphic Design Festival Scotland. Attending these events can broaden your horizons and keep you updated with the latest trends and innovations.
Employment Opportunities: The UK’s strong creative industry and global reputation make it a promising destination for job opportunities in graphic design. The UK also offers post-study work visas that allow international students to work in the country for a certain period after completing their studies. Students can also work and study in the UK during their stay.
Best Graphic Design Courses in the UK
University of the Arts London
The University of the Arts London (UAL) is a prestigious collegiate university in London, England, specializing in arts, design, fashion, and the performing arts. It is a federation of six renowned arts colleges. UAL itself consistently ranks among the top art and design institutions worldwide. The undergraduate graphic design program is a three-year intensive foray into a range of projects, from commercial to experimental design. Students engage in social, political, and industry debates while developing their practice. The curriculum emphasizes content creation and audience engagement, allowing students to become the designers they aspire to be.
Program Name | Duration of Study | Tuition Fees (2023/24) |
BA (Hons) Graphic Design | 3 years | 25,970 GBP |
BA (Hons) Graphic and Media Design | 3 years | 25,970 GBP |
BA (Hons) Graphic Communication Design | 3 years | 25,970 GBP |
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Staffordshire University
Staffordshire University, located in Staffordshire, England, has a rich history dating back to its establishment as a polytechnic institution in 1914. It officially gained university status on 16 June 1992 and has since become known for its forward-thinking approach, vocational and academic teaching, and commitment to student employability. In the 2022 Guardian League Tables, it secured an impressive 5th place for Design and crafts and Fashion and textiles. Graphic Design programs at the university certainly stand out. The curriculum reflects the diverse nature of contemporary visual communication. Students delve into typography, image making, information design, photography, art direction, branding, packaging, web design, moving image production, and more. The program encourages creativity and innovation while providing opportunities for placements with national design agencies.
Program Name | Duration of Study | Tuition Fees (2023/24) |
BA (Hons) Graphic Design | 3 years | 16,750 GBP |
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University of Edinburgh
The University of Edinburgh, located in Scotland, is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the world. It consistently ranks among the top universities globally. The graphic design programs at the university are offered by the Edinburgh College of Art (ECA).ECA has a strong reputation in the creative arts field, attracting talented students from around the world. The college offers two graphic design programs, one four-year undergrad program, and another specialized master’s program. The curriculum for the master’s program is student-led, allowing for independent learning and research. The university also has a Graphic Design Service that offers professional, high-quality design services to internal clients (within the university), partner organizations, research teams, and external clients.
Program Name | Duration of Study | Tuition Fees (2023/24) |
BA Graphic Design | 4 years | 38,500 GBP |
MA Graphic Design | 1 year | 29,900 GBP |
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Loughborough University
Loughborough University, located in Leicestershire, England, is a prestigious public research university with a rich history. It has been a university since 1966, but its origins date back to 1909 when it started as the Loughborough Technical Institute. Loughborough holds the top spot in the UK for Graphic Design according to The Guardian University Guide 2023. Loughborough’s School of Design and Creative Arts focuses on delivering a world-class education. Their research spans design, creative arts, and human factors. Its research impact in Art and Design is rated as ‘world-leading’ or ‘internationally excellent’ according to the Research Excellence Framework (REF) 2021. The Graphic Design BA (Hons) is a flexible degree that allows students to tailor their studies to their interests, whether it’s app development, animation, visual identity, branding, illustration, photography, etc. The department provides invaluable opportunities for students to showcase their work and prepares them for successful careers in the creative field.
Program Name | Duration of Study | Tuition Fees (2023/24) |
BA (Hons) Graphic Design | 3 years | 22,000 GBP |
MA Graphic Design and Visualisation | 1 year | 22,500 GBP |
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Middlesex University
Middlesex University, located in Hendon, northwest London, England, has a rich history that dates back to 1878. Today, Middlesex University boasts a diverse student body of over 19,000 students in London and more than 37,000 globally. The university has expanded its reach with campuses in Malta, Dubai, and Mauritius, along with local offices worldwide. Middlesex University consistently ranks among the top 100 universities in the UK according to various international ranking partners.
The Graphic Design MA program explores the ever-changing landscape of graphic design, emphasizing critical understanding, individual design thinking processes, practical experience, and insightful design solutions. Areas of specialization include typography, branding, editorial and book design, social enterprise, and digital interactive experiences. Students get to work in state-of-the-art facilities which include photographic studios, an extensive art and design library, dark rooms, workshops with technical support, and more.
Program Name | Duration of Study | Tuition Fees (2023/24) |
BA (Hons) Graphic Design | 3 years | 16,600 GBP |
MA Graphic Design | 1 year | 16,800 GBP |
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Admission Requirements for Graphic Design Courses in the UK
Bachelor’s
- A high school diploma or an equivalent qualification. Most universities will require good academic performance.
- A strong portfolio of your creative work is a crucial part of your application.
- English language proficiency certification through a test like the IELTS (6.5) or TOEFL (90-100).
- A personal statement or statement of purpose explaining your interest in graphic design, your career goals, and why you want to study at their institution.
- Letters of recommendation from teachers, mentors, or employers who can attest to your skills and potential as a graphic designer.
Master’s:
- A bachelor’s degree in a related field. This could be in graphic design, visual communication, or a related area of study. You may need to meet specific academic requirements, such as a minimum GPA, set by the university offering the program.
- A strong portfolio that demonstrates your advanced skills and a body of work that reflects your creative development.
- English language proficiency certification through a test like the IELTS (6.5) or TOEFL (90-100).
- A well-written statement of purpose explaining your reasons for pursuing a master’s in graphic design.
- Academic transcripts and letters of recommendation from professors or professionals who can speak to your abilities and potential as a graphic designer.
- Some universities may conduct interviews or portfolio reviews as part of the admission process.
Career Opportunities for Graphic Design Graduates in the UK
Graphic design is a creative and versatile field that offers many opportunities for graduates in the UK. Graphic designers can work in various industries and sectors, such as advertising, publishing, media, education, entertainment, fashion, gaming, and more. They can also choose to work as freelancers, consultants, or entrepreneurs, depending on their preferences and goals. Some of the other roles opted by graphic design graduates include:
- Web Designer
- Design Studio Manager
- Illustrator
- UX Designer
- Signmaker
According to Payscale, the average salary for a graphic designer in the UK is 24,489 GBP per year. The salary range can vary from 15,000 to 55,000 GBP per year, with some senior graphic designers earning more than 60,000 GBP per year. Graphic designers can also earn additional income from bonuses, commissions, profit-sharing, or other benefits.
Conclusion
In conclusion, graphic design courses in the UK are comprehensive programs that equip students with essential skills in areas such as visual communication, typography, layout design, and digital media. These courses bridge the gap between theory and practical application, allowing students to develop a strong foundation in design principles and techniques. Moreover, these programs are taught by world-class faculty with cutting-edge technologies. A graphic design degree from the UK can open doors for you anywhere. There are plenty of options for you to choose from in the UK, so it’s instrumental to make a wise decision considering factors such as budget, living expenses, scholarships, student visa, etc. The admission can be pretty overwhelming, and we are here to help you out. To know more about graphic design programs in the UK, reach out to us at Gyanberry. Book your free video call appointment now!