BA (Hons) Graphic Design with foundation year

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

Course Overview

The BA (Hons) Graphic Design with foundation year at Southampton Solent University is your gateway to a dynamic career in visual communication. This comprehensive undergraduate degree is ideal for aspiring designers eager to explore the principles of typography, image design, and page architecture. You will develop a strong understanding of graphic design history and its application to both commercial and social issues, preparing you to tackle diverse creative challenges. This course is designed for students passionate about visual problem-solving and eager to build a robust portfolio.

You will study this programme full-time on campus over four years, beginning with a foundational year that equips you with essential creative, technical, and study skills. Throughout your degree, you will gain hands-on experience with industry-standard software like Adobe Creative Suite, explore various printmaking techniques, and engage with live projects and national competition briefs. You will graduate with a Bachelor of Arts with Integrated Foundation Year, ready to pursue roles in branding, editorial design, interactive experiences, and more, supported by the university’s strong industry connections.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This BA (Hons) Graphic Design program offers a comprehensive foundation year to prepare students for degree-level study, covering creative applications, contextual practice, and research methodologies. Subsequent years delve into core graphic design principles, including typography, page architecture, and image design, alongside interactive experiences and commercial practices. The curriculum culminates in a final year focused on professional development, visual research, and the completion of a major project, with opportunities to explore specialized areas like identity and interruption.

1 Foundation year

Creative Applications
Contextual Practice
Materials and Methods
Research and Ideas Development
Personal Development Planning
Degree-related Project

2 Year one

Orientation
Reading Visual Culture
Typography
Image Design
Graphic Design History
Page Architecture

3 Year two

Interactive Experience
Solution Process
Graphic Structure
Experiential Narrative
Independent Project
Commercial Practice

4 Final year

Professional Context
Visual Research and Proposal
Professional Practice
Final Major Project

5 Optional modules

Identity
Interruption

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,810.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,810.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,810.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 24,810.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 99,243.00

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

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 693.00 - USD 1,552.00
Food & Groceries USD 2,417.00 - USD 4,833.00
Transport USD 806.00 - USD 1,611.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,128.00 - USD 2,095.00
Estimated Total USD 4,351.00 - USD 8,539.00

Living cost estimates are based on East Park Terrace campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

91%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Advertising TechnologyAmusement & Recreation ServicesEvent Promotion & ManagementMedia Research & AnalyticsPhotojournalism & Visual MediaPublic Broadcasting & DocumentaryPublic RelationsSocial Media & Community ManagementSports & AthleticsTheme Parks & Leisure

Top Employers Hiring for this course

British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC)

Ikea

Sky Group

Why Study BA (Hons) Graphic Design with foundation year at Southampton Solent University

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at Southampton Solent University 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) Graphic Design with foundation year at Southampton Solent University

Can I work while studying?

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

What English language score do I need for this course?

To enroll, you need an IELTS overall score of 6.0, with at least 5.5 in listening, reading, speaking, and writing. Meeting these requirements is crucial for your application.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as graphic designers, brand strategists, visual designers, art directors, or UI/UX designers.

What will I actually study in this course?

This course begins with a five-week group project, facilitating quick integration among peers. It covers essential subjects like professional techniques and visual culture in graphic design.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The BA (Hons) Graphic Design with foundation year accepts students in January and September. You can choose the intake that best fits your schedule.
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