Graphic Communication University of Reading

Overview

This Graphic Communication degreefrom the University of Reading will offer a you a distinctive approach to a design degree. We integrate different ways of thinking about design – practical, historical, and theoretical – so that you will become a well-rounded ‘thinking designer’, with a profile that’s sought after by the design industry.

Key features

• You will undertake practical projects across digital and print media, and learn about design principles and how to respond to user needs. Current projects include: brand campaigns, e-books and magazines, music packaging, newspapers, pictograms, wayfinding and sign systems, and websites and mobile apps. You will also enjoy a hands-on approach to design history through our renowned graphic design collections.
• You will learn how to communicate your design ideas clearly and persuasively through project reports and presentations. Essays and a final-year dissertation will develop your research skills and your ability to bring your ideas together. 
• This combination of academic writing, problem-solving, and client-facing communication gives you a competitive edge in the employment market. You can also broaden your profile by studying abroad in your second year. You will also have opportunities to collaborate with staff on research projects with real-world impact.
• We enjoy a high level of student satisfaction (currently 97%) because we offer small-group teaching, accessible tutors, and dedicated 24-hour studio spaces.
• The curriculum is constantly evolving and is informed by the research carried out by our staff. Our research, much of which is concerned with everyday communication, is recognised as excellent – we were recently ranked first among all UK art and design institutions in the Research Excellence Framework 2014. 100% of our research was recognised internationally and 56% was rated world-leading.

Career opportunities:

• We have close links with industry, and will develop your professional and practical skills through supervised assignments for real clients.
• As a graduate of this course you will be in high demand by prospective employers, because the combination of creative, production, and client-facing skills we teach you will prepare you for industry.
• Our graduates take leadership roles in a range of creative industries. Recent graduates have gone on to work across the professional design sector, from publishing, branding, and information design, to web and mobile interface design. Employers include BBC Online, Design Portfolio, Financial Times magazines, IBM, Microsoft, Orange, Oxford University Press, Penguin Books, and many specialist design studios and start-up agencies.
• Alternatively, you can further develop your knowledge and skills on one of our internationally recognised Masters courses in Book Design, Creative Enterprise, Information Design, or Typeface Design.
• On average, 95% of Graphic Communication graduates are in jobs or further study within 6 months.