University of West London United Kingdom

Graphic Design (Visual Communication and Illustration) BA (Hons)

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 3 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

The Graphic Design (Visual Communication and Illustration) BA (Hons) at the University of West London is your gateway to a dynamic career in the creative industries. This undergraduate degree is designed for aspiring designers eager to develop a unique visual voice and master the art of conveying meaning through compelling imagery and typography. You will explore foundational elements of graphic design, visual communication, and illustration, experimenting with diverse media from traditional drawing to cutting-edge digital tools like Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and After Effects. This course equips you with the essential skills and conceptual understanding to address contemporary design challenges.

Studied full-time on campus over three years, you will engage in a hands-on learning experience, progressing through modules that build your expertise year by year. The curriculum emphasizes practical application, including digital foundations, typography, narrative structure, and interaction design, preparing you for real-world briefs and client problems. In your final year, you will undertake a major independent project and develop a professional portfolio, showcasing your skills in experimental communications and professional practice. You will graduate ready to pursue diverse career paths as a graphic designer, illustrator, or visual communicator.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This Bachelor of Arts with Honours in Graphic Design (Visual Communication and Illustration) program equips students with essential visual communication and illustration skills. Across three levels, students will explore foundational concepts in visual languages and digital media, develop their creative processes, and engage with design contexts. The curriculum progresses to advanced topics such as word and image integration, narrative structures, and designing for innovation, culminating in a major project, experimental communications, and professional practice preparation.

1 Level 4

Visual languages
Digital foundations
Ideas and process
Design contexts

2 Level 5

Word and image
Contexts and critical research
Narrative structure and economic
Designing for innovation and interaction
Development design practise

3 Level 6

Major project
Experimental communications
Presenting and portfolio
Professional design practice and positioning

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 22,640.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 22,640.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 22,640.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 67,922.00

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

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 1,114.00 - USD 1,588.00
Food & Groceries USD 4,833.00 - USD 9,666.00
Transport USD 1,128.00 - USD 2,417.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,611.00 - USD 3,222.00
Estimated Total USD 7,572.00 - USD 15,305.00

Living cost estimates are based on Ealing Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

98%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Advertising & Media SalesAerospace Engineering & DesignAviation Maintenance & RepairCommercial AviationDigital Media & Online PublishingJournalism & ReportingMuseums & Cultural HeritagePhotojournalism & Visual MediaSpace Exploration & Satellite TechnologyUnmanned Aerial Vehicles (Drones)

Top Employers Hiring for this course

British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC)

Warner Media

YouTube

Why Study Graphic Design (Visual Communication and Illustration) BA (Hons) at University of West London

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at University of West London 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 (Visual Communication and Illustration) BA (Hons) at University of West London

Can I work while studying?

International students in degree courses can work up to 20 hours per week during term time. Full-time work is allowed during breaks without needing a separate work permit.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet English language requirements, you can choose from various tests. For example, an overall IELTS score of 6.0 or a TOEFL overall score of 78 is needed to qualify.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as Graphic Designers, Illustrators, Art Directors, or Visual Communication Specialists.

What will I actually study in this course?

Overview

Why study at UWL? 

  • In the top 30% of universities nationwide - The Guardian University Guide 2024
  • University of the Year for Social Inclusion - Daily Mail University Guide 2024
  • Best university for Student Experience and Teaching Quality in the UK - The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2024
  • Number 1 London university (non-specialist) - National Student Survey 2023

Why study this

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The next intake for the Graphic Design BA (Hons) course is in September. Ensure you apply ahead of the deadline to secure your spot.
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