Heriot-Watt University Dubai United Arab Emirates

BA (Hons) Communication Design

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

Embark on a dynamic journey with the BA (Hons) Communication Design at Heriot-Watt University Dubai, a programme designed for aspiring creatives ready to shape visual narratives across diverse industries. You will explore the core principles of design thinking, photography, illustration, and typography, building a robust foundation in visual development. This undergraduate degree is ideal for those who are passionate about how information is communicated and seek to develop innovative solutions that transcend traditional formats, addressing the evolving demands of media and social platforms.

This full-time, on-campus degree is structured over four years, progressively building your skills from foundational visualisation techniques to advanced specialisations. You will engage with practical projects in areas like graphic design, advertising, and interaction design, culminating in a significant honours project in your final year. Through hands-on experience and collaborative studio work, you will develop a professional portfolio and graduate with the confidence and expertise to pursue careers in branding, art direction, UX/UI design, and beyond.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This program provides a comprehensive exploration of communication design, covering foundational principles and advanced applications. Students will engage with diverse areas including graphic design, typography, illustration, photography, and digital technologies. The curriculum emphasizes developing creative media skills, understanding promotional strategies, and mastering art direction and branding. Culminating in significant final projects, this course equips individuals with the practical and theoretical knowledge necessary for a successful career in communication design.

1 Mandatory September

Rethinking design 2: Develop and deliver
Rethinking design 1: Discover and define

2 Mandatory January

Introduction to communication design
Introduction to creative media
Introduction to photography

3 Mandatory September

Intermediate photography
Creative digital technologies

4 Mandatory January

Promotion & advertising
Graphic design, typography & illustration

5 Mandatory September

Art direction and storytelling
Design branding

6 Mandatory January

Advanced communication design
Collaborative studio

7 Mandatory September

Final project 1
Minor project

8 Mandatory January

Final project 2
Advanced practice and evaluation

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 22,399.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 22,399.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 22,399.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 22,399.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 89,598.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

90%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Artificial Intelligence & Machine LearningBlockchain & Emerging TechnologiesCloud Computing & InfrastructureCreative & ContentCybersecurity & Network SecurityEvent & Experiential MarketingJournalism & ReportingMedia Research & AnalyticsMuseums & Cultural HeritageRoad Transport & Logistics

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Al Jazeera Media Network

Amazon Web Services

Arup

British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC)

Microsoft

Sky Group

Why Study BA (Hons) Communication Design at Heriot-Watt University Dubai

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Very Fast Application response time

Heriot-Watt University Dubai typically responds to applications within 1 - 2 days, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Life at Heriot-Watt University Dubai in United Arab Emirates

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about BA (Hons) Communication Design at Heriot-Watt University Dubai

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 15 hours per week during term time and 40 hours during breaks in the UAE. A work permit and university permission are required.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet English language requirements, acceptable scores include TOEFL (overall 78), IELTS (overall 6.0), or PTE (overall 50). Specific scores in listening, reading, speaking, and writing also apply.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as graphic designers, art directors, UX/UI designers, branding specialists, and advertising professionals.

What will I actually study in this course?

This course explores design thinking, photography, illustration, and typography. It emphasizes building a professional portfolio through practical projects in graphic design, advertising, and interaction design.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The BA (Hons) Communication Design program has an intake in September each year. Make sure to prepare your application in advance to secure your spot.
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