Graphic Design BA (Hons) with Professional Practice Year

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 Graphic Design BA (Hons) with Professional Practice Year at the University for Creative Arts (UCA) is designed for aspiring visual communicators ready to tackle complex societal and cultural challenges through design. You will explore the critical role of graphic design in shaping perceptions and driving cultural change, focusing on typography, creative methodology, and contemporary visual communication. This course is ideal for students who are passionate about experimentation, critical thinking, and using design to articulate abstract issues into tangible, meaningful proposals grounded in real-world contexts.

Studied full-time on campus over four years, this programme immerses you in a hands-on learning environment. You will engage with live industry briefs during 'Opportunity Weeks', develop multimodal approaches to design, and refine your typographic skills. A distinctive feature is the integrated Professional Practice Year, where you will undertake a placement within the creative industries, gaining invaluable professional experience. You will graduate with a robust portfolio, a deep understanding of design principles, and the confidence to pursue diverse career paths in graphic design and related fields.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This BA (Hons) Graphic Design with Professional Practice Year program offers a comprehensive exploration of design principles and practices. Across the initial two years, students will delve into foundational design concepts, typography, and multimodal approaches, preparing them for industry challenges. The curriculum emphasizes design thinking, creativity, and innovation, culminating in a final major project and opportunities for industry engagement. The professional practice year provides valuable real-world experience.

1 Year One

Launch
Design Concepts
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion 1
Typographic Studies 01
Opportunity
Design Thinking
Design, Creativity and Innovation
Proclamation

2 Year Two

Launch
Multimodal Approaches to Design
The Conscious Practitioner
Typographic Studies 2.0
Opportunity
Design for Screen
Building on Identity
Working in the Creative industries

3 Professional Practice Year

4 Year Three

Launch
Industry-led competitions
Contextual research
Opportunity
Final Major Project

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 19,427.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 19,427.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 19,427.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 19,427.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 77,709.00

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

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 572.00 - USD 1,227.00
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 UCA Farnham Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

96%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Beverage Production & DistributionBrokerage & Trading & SecuritiesCloud Computing & InfrastructureCybersecurityHigher Education & UniversitiesInsurance & Risk ManagementNutrition & DieteticsPrivate Equity & Venture CapitalSecondary & High School EducationTextile & Fabric Development

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Apple

IBM

Marks & Spencer

Sainsbury's

Tesco

University of the Arts London

Why Study Graphic Design BA (Hons) with Professional Practice Year at University for Creative Arts (UCA)

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at University for Creative Arts (UCA) 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 Graphic Design BA (Hons) with Professional Practice Year at University for Creative Arts (UCA)

Can I work while studying?

As an international student in a degree course, you can work up to 20 hours per week during term time. Full-time work is allowed during breaks, and no separate work permit is needed.

What English language score do I need for this course?

For English proficiency, you can submit TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE scores. The minimum requirements vary by test, so ensure you meet the necessary scores for admission.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Potential job titles include Graphic Designer, UX Designer, Art Director, Digital Designer, and Branding Specialist.

What will I actually study in this course?

Our BA (Hons) Graphic Design course emphasizes blending traditional and modern design practices. You'll develop skills in graphic and UX design while engaging in live briefs with industry partners.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Graphic Design BA (Hons) program has an intake in September. Make sure to prepare your application ahead of this date to secure your spot.
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