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Undergraduate

BA (Hons) Graphic and Media Design

Ethan Phan. 2020, BA (Hons) Graphic and Media Design, London College of Communication, UAL
College
London College of Communication
UCAS code
W212
Start date
September 2024
Course length
3 years

BA (Hons) Graphic and Media Design builds on the long history of unique excellence in design and communication at London College of Communication, to prepare students for the future of design and new technologies.

Re-approval

Please note this course is undergoing re-approval. This is the process by which we ensure the course continues to provide a high-quality academic experience. During re-approval there may be some changes to the course content displayed on this page. Please contact us if you have any questions about the course.

Why choose this course at London College of Communication

  • Starting with core graphic and visual design skills, the course expands to cover a huge range of experimental processes, platforms and technologies meaning that graduates build a strong portfolio demonstrating rigorous design skills and innovative practice.
  • Specialist tutors in subjects such as branding and identity, social innovation, coding and development, emerging technology, motion design and information design teach across all years, giving you the opportunity to explore new skills and structure your career ambitions with their guidance.
  • Live briefs with collaborators and clients such as Water Aid, Influx Press, Musicians Against Homelessness, AKQA and venturethree.
  • Diploma in Professional Studies is an optional year in industry that many students take part in to expand their network, gain work experience and open up career opportunities.

Open Days

The next Open Day for this course will be announced soon.

Explore life at LCC with our interactive Virtual Open Day.

Scholarships and awards

Course website

gmdlcc.com

Course overview

​BA (Hons) Graphic and Media Design teaches a broad set of skills and inspiring ideas rooted in communication and graphic media that equips graduates with the confidence in the huge range of opportunities across new technologies and careers in design.

What to expect

  • First year introduces core skills in design, visual communication, graphic media and technologies. You will learn to work individually and in teams in response to a wide variety of briefs drawn from the professional context. This year also introduces theories and ideas of graphic design and visual culture and teaches you how to use them in your practical work.
  • Second year develops new specialisms and experimental practices in new and emerging technologies. You will begin to develop a direction for your practice and portfolio based on the range of experiences and theories you encounter and develop the skills to structure your learning and your future career through industry briefs and collaborative work.
  • Final year focuses on the development of your professional position, profile and portfolio with subject-specialist tutors and in a series of self-directed and specialist tutor co-authored projects. You will also write a thesis with the support of a tutor that gives you the confidence to present your own ideas in written and spoken form.

Industry experience and opportunities

Students work on live briefs during their study as well as take placements through our extensive alumni network.

Previous and current industry partners include:

  • Diabetes UK
  • British Film Institute (BFI)
  • Interbrand
  • Dorling Kindersley
  • The Design Museum
  • Pentagram
  • Apple
  • International Society of Typographic Designers (ISTD)
  • NHS
  • Moleskin
  • D&AD

Additionally, you’ll have the opportunity to undertake the Diploma in Professional Studies or the Diploma in Creative Computing between Years 2 and 3 to enhance your learning experience and employability skills.

Mode of Study

BA (Hons) Graphic and Media Design runs for 93 weeks in full time mode. It is divided into 3 stages over 3 academic years. Each stage lasts 31 weeks.

Course units

We are committed to ensuring that your skills are set within an ethical framework, and we have worked to embed UAL’s Principles for Climate, Racial and Social Justice Principles into the curriculum and in everything we do. 

As part of this initiative, we’ve shaped our courses around social and environmental sustainability principles that ensure learning outcomes reflect the urgent need to equip you with the understanding, skills, and values to foster a more sustainable planet. Our aim is to change the way our students think, and to empower you to work towards a sustainable future.

All the units in the course are compulsory, except for the option to choose a longer or shorter thesis and complimentary practice project in third year. However, most units offer a range of briefs and projects to choose from across a range of approaches and technologies with Subject Specialist tutors co-authoring a wide range of bespoke learning opportunities.

Year 1

You will be introduced to the core skills of graphic and media design practice and theory through individual and collaborative briefs with a range of subject specialist tutors.

Introduction to Graphic and Media Design (20 credits)

This unit introduces the graphic and media design study through theory and practice.

Principles, Processes and Methods (40 credits)

In this unit you will build on ‘Introduction to…’ to develop core conceptual and technical skills of working in design.

Applied Methods and Exploration (40 credits)

You will have the opportunity to apply the ideas and methods learnt in the previous unit through project briefs.

Contextual and Theoretical Studies 1 (20 credits)

This unit introduces histories, theories and debates relevant to graphic and media design and visual culture.

Year 2

You will have the opportunity to develop subject specialism and explore a range of experimental practices and technologies as you head to your final year.

Specialist Ways of Working (40 credits)

You will be introduced to specialist fields of graphic and media design such as digital and user experience design, coding and development and social practice.

Professional Practice (20 credits)

This unit gives you the opportunity to collaborate with design students from other courses on a live industry brief.

Situating Practice and Self-Directed Portfolio (40 Credits)

You will focus and deepen your learning and skills so far towards developing a sense of your own practice, self-direction and experimentation.

Contextual and Theoretical Studies 2 (20 credits)

In this unit you will study a specific set of ideas, practices and theories chosen by you and related to your career and practice ambitions.

Year 3

In your third year, you will focus your work towards developing a rich portfolio of exciting, self-directed and specialist projects.

Positioning and Industry (20 credits)

This unit focuses on the development of critical skills in creative and communication industries through practice projects to better equip you for employment.

Major Project (60 credits)

Your Major Project is the culmination of the course where you produce showcase work based on the core skills, specialisms, technologies and theories you have learned and chosen to focus on.

In addition, year 3 students chose between either Route A or Route B:

  • Route A: Contextual and Theoretical Studies (40 credits)
    is a 8000-10000 word thesis on a subject of your choice in negotiation with your tutor.
  • Route B: Contextual and Theoretical Studies (20 credits)
    is a 4,000-5,000 word thesis on a subject of your choice in negotiation with your tutor.
  • Route B: Self-Directed Project (20 credits)
    a supplementary practice unit to the thesis that gives further opportunity to explore critical and technical areas linking theory to practice.

Optional Diploma between Years 2 and 3

Between Years 2 and 3 of your course, you’ll also have the opportunity to undertake one of the following qualifications:

Diploma in Professional Studies (DPS) (Optional)

An optional, year-long learning opportunity which enables you to develop your professional skills by undertaking time out for industry experience. Supported throughout the year by academics, you’ll build on the knowledge gained on your course in a range of national or international locations, and graduate with an additional qualification of Diploma in Professional Studies.

Diploma in Creative Computing (Optional)

Between Years 2 and 3, you can undertake the year-long Diploma in Creative Computing. This will develop your skills in creative computing alongside your degree. After successfully completing the diploma and your undergraduate degree, you’ll graduate with an enhanced degree: BA (Hons) Graphic and Media Design (with Creative Computing).

Learning and teaching methods

  • Tutorials
  • Assessment
  • Presentations 
  • Seminars
  • Workshops
  • Technical and conceptual exercises
  • Inductions and workshops 
  • Group tutorials
  • Discussions and seminars
  • Design writing workshops

Online Open Day

Course Leader, Ian Carr, gives an overview of studying BA (Hons) Graphic and Media Design.

Graduate showcase

Explore work by our recent students on the UAL Showcase

  • Selinas De Añana (Rebrand)
    Selinas De Añana (Rebrand), Amaya Crichton, 2023 BA (Hons) Graphic And Media Design, London College of Communication, UAL
  • 家和萬事興 A Harmonious Family Cultivates Prosperity
    家和萬事興 A Harmonious Family Cultivates Prosperity, CANYU FANG, 2023 BA (Hons) Graphic And Media Design, London College of Communication, UAL
  • Foodmart
    Foodmart, Sharon Ayiglo, 2023 BA (Hons) Graphic And Media Design, London College of Communication, UAL

Student work

  • Gilad-Kaufman-Myth-of-Power.jpg
    Gilad Kaufman. BA (Hons) Graphic and Media Design, London College of Communication, UAL.
  • 1.-Joanna-Marczak-Solno.jpg
    Joanna Marczak Solno. BA (Hons) Graphic and Media Design, London College of Communication, UAL.
  • 8.-Marta-Urbez_Karst.jpg
    Mara Urbez. BA (Hons) Graphic and Media Design, London College of Communication, UAL.
  • 3.-Ethan-Phano_-The-code-of-online-decorum.jpg
    Ethan Phan. BA (Hons) Graphic and Media Design, London College of Communication, UAL.
  • Angus-Robertson-The-Moon-under-Water.png
    Angus Robertson. BA (Hons) Graphic and Media Design, London College of Communication, UAL.
  • 7.-Kaja-Lampret_Chroma-.jpg
    Kaja Lampret Chroma. BA (Hons) Graphic and Media Design, London College of Communication, UAL.
  • Rita-Desport_az-of-emotions.jpg
    Rita Desport. BA (Hons) Graphic and Media Design, London College of Communication, UAL.
  • 9.-Marion-bisserier-goodgirl-typeface.jpg
    Marion Bisserier. BA (Hons) Graphic and Media Design, London College of Communication, UAL.

Course playlist

Course showreel 2022

I’m not a robot

Work by India Wilson

Design with your mind

Work by Miguel Desport

Graduate Showcase Showreel

Work from our 2020 graduates.

Student voices

Amaya Crichton

Amaya speaks about her final project, a rebrand of Sal de Añana in northern Spain.

Jake Richardson

Uniting code, typography, sound and design, Jake’s final work, ‘Sonictype’, is a generative type which reacts to voice and audio input.

Wei En Chen

Wei’s graduate project is a newspaper generated by artificial intelligence and machine learning.

Stories

Facilities

  • A close-up of the moveable type available in the Letterpress area.
    Image © Lewis Bush

    Printing and Finishing

    Discover our printing techniques, from Lithographic Printing to Print Finishing and Bookbinding.

  • A tutor in the process of producing a print.
    Image © Lewis Bush

    Printmaking

    This workshop offers a wide-range of expertise in everything from etching to lithography.

  • Student reading a book in between two bookshelves in the Library
    Students in the Digital Space. London College of Communication, UAL. Photograph: Alys Tomlinson

    Digital Space

    The Digital Space is an open-plan, creative hub with computers set up with specialist software.

  • empty workshop space with chairs, tables, tv screen's vr booths and coding area

    Creative Technology Lab

    This Lab supports emerging technology projects that involve programming, electronics and the experimental use of AV equipment.

Staff

Fees and funding

Home fee

£9,250 per year

This fee is correct for entry in autumn 2024 and is subject to change for entry in autumn 2025.

Tuition fees may increase in future years for new and continuing students.

Home fees are currently charged to UK nationals and UK residents who meet the rules. However, the rules are complex. Find out more about our tuition fees and determining your fee status.

International fee

£28,570 per year

This fee is correct for entry in autumn 2024 and is subject to change for entry in autumn 2025.

Tuition fees for international students may increase by up to 5% in each future year of your course.

Students from countries outside of the UK will generally be charged international fees. The rules are complex so read more about tuition fees and determining your fee status.

Scholarship search

Entry requirements

The course team welcomes applicants from a broad range of backgrounds from all over the world. The course attracts students who apply direct from A-level (or equivalent) or from Foundation Diploma in Art and Design, or other art or design courses, as well as mature students who may have previously worked in industry.

The standard entry requirements for this course are as follows:

80 UCAS tariff points, which can be made up of one or a combination of the following accepted full level 3 qualifications:

  • A Levels at grade C or above (preferred subjects include: English; History; Media; Business; Art and Design, or other subjects within Social Sciences).
  • Pass at Foundation Diploma in Art & Design (Level 3 or 4).
  • Merit, Merit, Pass at BTEC Extended Diploma (preferred subjects: Art and Design, IT & Computing).
  • Merit at UAL Extended Diploma.
  • Access to Higher Education Diploma (preferred subject: Digital and Creative Media, Film and Production, Computing).
  • OR equivalent EU/International qualifications, such as International Baccalaureate Diploma at 24 points minimum

And 3 GCSE passes at grade 4 or above (grade A*-C).

APEL - Accreditation of Prior (Experiential) Learning

If you do not meet these entry requirements but your application demonstrates additional strengths and alternative relevant experience, you may still be considered. This could include:

  • Related academic or work experience
  • The quality of the personal statement
  • A strong academic or other professional reference
  • A combination of these factors.

Each application will be considered on its own merit. We cannot guarantee an offer in each case.

English Language requirements

  • IELTS level 6.0 or above, with at least 5.5 in reading, writing, listening and speaking.

All classes are taught in English. If English isn’t your first language, you will need to show evidence of your English language ability when you enrol. For further guidance, please check our  English language requirements.

Selection criteria

The portfolio, along with the details on your UCAS application (including the academic reference and your personal statement) will be assessed against the following criteria:

  • Visual language: quality of structure, use of line, shape - 2D or 3D, form, scale, space, light, colour, texture and time.
  • Ideas generation: quality of ideas and thought process, expression of design thinking.
  • Research and its application (including images from sketch books): evidence of investigation and use of appropriate resources.
  • Materials, media exploration and experimentation; experimentation and testing of materials to achieve outcomes.
  • Contextual awareness and its influence on the portfolio; understanding and application of subject knowledge and context.

Apply now

Application deadline

31 January 2024 at 18:00 (UK time)

If there are places available after this date, the course will remain open to applications until places have been filled.

Apply to UAL

Home students can apply to this course through UCAS with the following codes:

University code:

U65

UCAS code:

W212

Start your application

Apply now

Application deadline

31 January 2024 at 18:00 (UK time)

If there are places available after this date, the course will remain open to applications until places have been filled.

Apply to UAL

International students can apply to this course through UCAS with the following codes:

University code:

U65

UCAS code:

W212

Start your application
or

Apply with a UAL Representative

Based across the world, our local UAL representatives can support you with your application from your home country. Check to see if there is a representative available in your country currently.

Find your representative

How to apply

Follow this step-by-step guide to apply for this course

Step 1: Initial application

You will need to submit an initial application including your personal statement.

Personal statement advice

Your personal statement should be maximum 4,000 characters and cover the following:

  • Why have you chosen this course? What excites you about the subject?
  • How does your previous or current study relate to the course?
  • Have you got any work experience that might help you?
  • Have any life experiences influenced your decision to apply for this course?
  • What skills do you have that make you perfect for this course?
  • What plans and ambitions do you have for your future career?

Visit the UCAS advice page and our personal statement advice page for more support.

Step 2: Digital portfolio

We will review your initial application. If you have met the standard entry requirements, we will ask you to submit a digital portfolio.

You’ll need to submit these via PebblePad, our online portfolio tool.

Digital portfolio advice

Your portfolio should consist of recent work that reflects your creative strengths.

It should:

  • be maximum 20 pages
  • demonstrate your developmental journey through accomplished projects by highlighting processes and completed work
  • incorporate visual research, sketchbooks, or journals that provide valuable insights into your creative process
  • include a diverse range of projects that illustrate different aspects of your abilities within graphic and media design, and other relevant creative areas
  • showcase any specialised skills or techniques.

For more support, see our Portfolio advice and PebblePad advice.

Step 3: Interview

You may be invited to an interview following our review of your application. All interviews are held online and last 15 to 20 minutes.

For top tips, see our Interview advice.

You also need to know

Communicating with you

Once you have submitted your initial application, we will email you with your login details for our Applicant portal.

Requests for supplementary documents like qualifications and English language tests will be made through the applicant portal. You can also use it to ask questions regarding your application. Visit our After you apply page for more information.

Visas and immigration history check

All non-UK nationals must complete an immigration history check. Your application may be considered by our course teams before this check takes place. This means that we may request your portfolio and/or video task before we identify any issues arising from your immigration history check. Sometimes your history may mean that we are not able to continue considering your application. Visit our Immigration and visas advice page for more information.

External student transfer policy

UAL accepts transfers from other institutions on a case-by-case basis. Read our Student transfer policy for more information.

Alternative offers

If your application is really strong, but we believe your strengths and skillset are better suited to a different course, we may make you an alternative offer. This means you will be offered a place on a different course or at a different UAL College.

Deferring your place

You must apply in the year that you intend to start your course. If you are made an offer and your circumstances change, you can submit a deferral request to defer your place by 1 academic year. You must have met your conditions by 31 August 2024. If you need an English language test in order to meet the entry requirements, the test must be valid on the deferred start date of your course. If not, you will need to reapply. Requests are granted on a first-come, first-served basis.

Contextual Admissions

This course is part of the Contextual Admissions scheme.

This scheme helps us better understand your personal circumstances so that we can assess your application fairly and in context. This ensures that your individual merit and creative potential can shine through, no matter what opportunities and experiences you have received.

After you apply

Careers

BA (Hons) Graphic and Media Design's breadth of study means that its graduates are eminently employable.

Recent graduates are working in a variety of roles:

  • Designer
  • Producer
  • Creative
  • Art Director
  • Motion Graphic Designer
  • Arts and Culture Adviser
  • Visual Merchandising Manager
  • Communications Writer
  • Social Media Planner
  • Head of Design
  • Senior User Experience Designer
  • Animators
  • Editorial Designer
  • Production Co-ordinator
  • Media Strategist

Our graduates have gone on to work for a wide range of companies and agencies such as: IDEO (Munich), Sonicjam (Japan), Dalston Creative (Sweden), Light TV, Vault 49 (New York), Imagination, Karmarama, Brand Union (Singapore), AA School print studio, Hidden Art, Birch, Max Wigram Gallery, Sea Design, Iris, Cartlidge Lelvene, John Morgan Studio, YuCo Lab (Hong Kong), Pentagram, BBC, Times, Guardian, Mindshare, DK, Interbrand, Samsung, MADE (Midlands Architecture and the Designed Environment), Saatchi X, Shroom Ltd, Anthony Nolan.

Many Alumni have also set up their own studios and businesses.

UAL Alumni Association

Our alumni association offers graduates support and a number of benefits.

Student jobs and careers

Find out how careers and employability helps our students and graduates start their careers.