The BA (Hons) Graphic Design with Foundation Year at the University of Derby offers you a comprehensive pathway into the dynamic world of visual communication and creative industries. This integrated foundation year is specifically designed for aspiring designers who may not yet meet the direct entry requirements for a degree, providing you with the essential skills and knowledge in creative studies, technologies, and historical context. You will explore areas such as creative technologies, the history and theory of creative practice, and develop fundamental 2D and 3D making skills, ensuring you are well-prepared for the rigours of higher-level design study. This program is ideal for students eager to build a strong foundation in design principles and practices.
You will study this course full-time on campus over four years, with the initial foundation year laying the groundwork for the subsequent three years of your BA (Hons) degree. Throughout your studies, you will engage with core modules like Thinking Through Design, Design Culture and Curiosity, and Creative Concepts, alongside optional pathways such as a Diploma in Professional Practice. This hands-on approach includes developing your own creative ambition and undertaking an independent creative project. You will graduate with a Bachelor of Arts with Honours, equipped with a robust portfolio and the practical and theoretical expertise to pursue diverse career opportunities in graphic design, branding, and digital media.