3+0 BA (Hons) Graphic Design, Sheffield Hallam University, UK

Year 1

The first-year challenges students to explore diverse approaches to design problems and apply their creative skills in different ways. It will also challenge any preconceptions that students may have about Graphic Design. During the first year, students will also learn many of the essential skills needed to work in Graphic Design.

Subjects include:
• Graphic Design Principles Part 1
• Graphic Design Principles Part 2
• Graphic Design Practice Part 1
• Graphic Design Practice Part 2

Electives:
• Advertising Design
• Typography

Learning focus:
• Adobe graphic design software
• Concept mapping and research methods
• Exploring frames into moving graphics
• Grid systems and structures
• Photography and printing methods
• 3D printing and laser cutting

Year 2

In the second year, design projects are often company-sponsored, and involve working directly with the client (Live projects). The subjects will help students meet this challenge and develop their skills and knowledge to a professional level. Other projects involve working to a national or international design brief. In this case, students need to demonstrate the ability to communicate their design ideas professionally, using a variety of media and techniques.

Subjects include:
• Graphic Design in Context Part 1
• Graphic Design in Context Part 2
• Graphic Design in Production Part 1
• Graphic Design in Production Part 2

Learning focus:
• Envisioning information and data visualisation
• Design theory and divergent thinking
• Design, sign and symbol
• Shaping the page and digital publication
• Image making and character design
• Embroidery and fabric printing

Year 3

Through a process of research and discussion with academic staff, students determine a body of self-directed study that allows them to develop a personal area of interest related to the field of Graphic Design. By taking increased responsibility for the management of their own work, students are prepared for life as a professional designer. The number and content of the projects students undertake in the third year can be negotiated. However, the academic team will offer advice that enables students to develop a portfolio that best supports their career aspirations. It is also essential that students support their dissertations and design projects with a body of thorough and convincing research and development.

Subjects include:
• Graduation Projects Part 1
• Graduation Projects Part 2
• Professional Practice (Graphic Design)

Industry attachment (Compulsory)
• Industry Placement (Graphic Design)

Learning focus:
• Demonstrate increasing autonomy, professionalism and critical awareness
• Statement of intent and annotated bibliography
• Critical contexts writing and research inquiry
• Portfolio building and self-branding
• Independent proposal project and external/live brief

MPU subjects

• Bahasa Kebangsaan A*/Design Thinking
• Corporate Social Responsibility and Community Engagement
• Integrity and Anti-Corruption
• Appreciation of Ethics and Civilisations (Local students) / Communicating in Malay 2 (International students)
• Philosophy and Current Issues