Heriot Watt University UK United Kingdom

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

The BA (Hons) Communication Design at Heriot Watt University UK is your pathway to mastering the art and science of visual communication. This undergraduate degree is designed for aspiring designers eager to explore the dynamic interplay between conceptual thinking, practical application, and entrepreneurial spirit. You will delve into diverse media, learning to transform complex information into clear, ethical, and engaging design experiences. By focusing on design thinking, you will develop the critical skills necessary to interpret data, foster knowledge, and address socially relevant communication challenges, preparing you for a multifaceted career in the creative industries.

This full-time, on-campus programme, studied over four years, immerses you in practical skills through modules covering photography, graphic design, illustration, typography, and interaction design. You will build foundational expertise in your first year, specialise in areas like advertising and creative digital technologies in your second, and explore themed electives such as design management or interaction design in your third. Your final year culminates in a substantial honours project, allowing you to apply advanced evaluative practices and research methodologies. You will graduate with a versatile portfolio and the confidence to pursue roles in branding, art direction, UX/UI design, and beyond.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This program offers a comprehensive exploration of communication design, beginning with foundational principles in creative media, photography, and graphic design. Students will delve into areas such as typography, illustration, and advertising, developing skills in art direction and branding. The curriculum progresses to advanced concepts, collaborative projects, and culminates in substantial final projects, preparing graduates for professional practice.

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

15% off
First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 22,258.00 USD 26,298.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 26,298.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 26,298.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 26,298.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 101,154.00 USD 105,194.00

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

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 503.00 - USD 2,667.00
Food & Groceries USD 4,833.00 - USD 6,444.00
Transport USD 967.00 - USD 1,128.00
Utilities & Bills USD 2,417.00 - USD 6,847.00
Estimated Total USD 8,217.00 - USD 14,419.00

Living cost estimates are based on Edinburgh Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

84%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Corporate Finance & TreasuryCybersecurity & Network SecurityFashion Design & Creative DirectionFinancial Technology (Fintech)Food Marketing & Brand ManagementJournalism & ReportingMedia Production & EditingMedia Research & AnalyticsNetworking & Internet ServicesRegulatory & Government Affairs

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Accenture

Apple

Microsoft

Qirtas

Sky Group

Tesco

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

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at Heriot Watt University UK in United Kingdom

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 UK

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. No separate work permit is needed for degree courses.

What English language score do I need for this course?

For TOEFL, an overall score of 79 is required with specific listening, reading, speaking, and writing scores. IELTS requires an overall score of 6.0, and PTE demands an overall score of 63.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Possible job titles include Graphic Designer, UX/UI Designer, Motion Graphics Artist, and Brand Strategist.

What will I actually study in this course?

This degree focuses on conceptual design, applied design practices, and entrepreneurial strategies. You'll gain skills in moving image, animation, photography, and graphic design, preparing you for a successful career in communication design.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The BA (Hons) Communication Design program starts in September. Be sure to check application deadlines and prepare your materials in advance.
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