BA (Hons) Digital and Graphic Design

The BA (Hons) Digital and Graphic Design course is designed to prepare students for a career in the creative industries, with a focus on digital media and graphic design. This cutting-edge course will equip students with the tools to excel in the creative industries of tomorrow, merging creative expression with advanced technological skills.

Course Overview

The course is a four-year, full-time program that includes hands-on learning opportunities, industry connections, and the development of a professional portfolio. Students will learn about design principles, visual communication, content creation, and digital media, and will have the opportunity to specialize in areas such as motion design, photography, and interactive media.

Why QMU?

QMU offers a unique approach to digital and graphic design education, with a focus on hands-on learning, industry connections, and creative development. The university has an excellent reputation for producing work-ready graduates in the complementary fields of digital marketing, digital content creation, public relations, film, and media production.

Course Structure

The course is structured over four years, with each year building on the previous one to provide a comprehensive education in digital and graphic design.

Year One

In the first year, students will discover the fundamentals of designing to visually communicate across different digital and print media. They will gain a strong foundation in their understanding of typography, image creation, and the techniques of successful layout of design outcomes across different digital media.

• Digital Design 101: Introduction to the core skills, principles, key software, and fundamentals of digital graphic design.
• Intro to Motion Design: Exploration of the technical and aesthetic principles behind motion design.
• Creative Practice: Visual Storytelling: Introduction to the foundational principles of still and moving image creation essential for storytelling.
• Designing for Audiences: Learning to design strategically as part of a team to research, ideate, and create a group design outcome.
• Media and Creative Industries: Introduction to the media and creative industries, focusing on economics, regulation, ownership, and publicity.
• Creative Practice: Critical Thinking and Writing: Development of critical thinking and writing skills for various contexts.

Year Two

In the second year, students will define and expand their breadth of knowledge and depth of expertise as designers. They will gain confidence in designing across digital and print formats for audiences and their experiences.

• Type & Image for Screen & Print: Exploration of the differences between screen and print colour formats, typefaces, and gridding layouts.
• Digital Design for Experience: Consolidation of digital graphic design practice and expansion into interaction design.
• AI and Digital Communication: Introduction to AI tools and products used in professional PR and marketing.
• Professional Design Practice: Introduction to more professional contexts of the design process.
• Sustainable Design and Communication: Exploration of the ethical and sustainable impacts of design, marketing, and digital media.
• Persuasive Communication: Investigation of the art and science of persuasive communication.

Year Three

In the third year, students will begin developing the professional attitude required for employment or entrepreneurship in the design industry. They will have the opportunity to select elective modules to augment their core design modules.

• Digital Graphic Design: Deeper understanding of the core principles underpinning graphic design practice.
• Designing for Impact: Application of core graphic design techniques to the design of a branded campaign.
• Design Client Project: Collaboration on a live professional project brief set by a client.
• Designing a Research Project: Introduction to approaches, methods, and practices for researching media, culture, and society.
• Business of Creativity: Development of skills and tools to prepare for the world of work as creative freelance practitioners and/or entrepreneurs.

Year Four

In the final year, students will deliver a more professional level of design outputs and a dissertation. They will build a portfolio of design work that positions them for the type of design employment they desire.

• Design Industry Project: Focus on the professional expectations of designing within the chosen area of the design industry.
• Major Digital Design Project: Selection of a final major project that reflects employability ambition.
• Design Placement & Portfolio: Application of knowledge and skills in a professional setting, culminating in a personal digital portfolio.
• Dissertation: Traditional dissertation or a creative practice dissertation in photography or graphic design.

Careers

Graduates of this course will be well-prepared for a variety of roles in the creative sector and beyond, including:

• Master's UX Designer
• Digital Designer
• Graphic Designer
• Social Media Designer
• Motion Designer
• Content Creator
• Sole Trader
• Freelancer

Entry Requirements

• Scottish Higher: Standard - BBBC, Minimum – BCCC
• A Lev Leaving Certificate: H2 H3 H3 H3
• International Baccalaureate: 28 points
• Mature/Access: Relevant qualifications and/or experience
• International: IELTS of 6.0 with no element lower than 5.5
• Required subjects: A Higher in Art and Design, Graphic Communication, or Media is preferred. English is required, and Maths is preferred at Nat 5/GCSE level at grade C or above.

Application Information

Application for this course should be made through UCAS. As part of the selection process, suitably qualified applicants will be required to submit a digital 'lookbook' that evidences examples of their creativity.

Awarding Body

QMU

Terms and Conditions

The delivery of this course is subject to the terms and conditions set out in the 2027/28 Entry Terms and Conditions (Undergraduate). The information provided is correct at the time of posting but is subject to change.

Queen Margaret University

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Overview:

Queen Margaret University (QMU) is a public university located in Edinburgh, Scotland. It is known for its person-centered and career-focused approach to education and teaching, with a commitment to shaping a better world. QMU boasts widely recognized expertise in various fields, including business, creative industries, education, health and rehabilitation, and social sciences.

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Services Offered:

QMU offers a wide range of services to its students, including:

Learning Facilities:

Library, IT services, remote access, Canvas, QMU Portal, ePortfolio

Student Support:

Careers and Employability, Students' Union, QMU Sports Centre, Clinics, Accommodation, Finance Office

Campus Life:

Eat and Drink on Campus, QMU Online Shop, Blogs, Ask a Student a Question

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

QMU provides a vibrant and supportive campus environment. Students can expect:

Community Feel:

An airy and bright campus with a strong sense of community.

Student Services:

Ready access to student services, food outlets, accommodation, sports facilities, and social spaces.

Beautiful Grounds:

A beautiful campus with plenty of outdoor spaces for relaxation and socializing.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Person-Centered Approach:

QMU focuses on individual student needs and career development.

Career-Focused Education:

The university emphasizes practical skills and real-world experience.

Renowned Expertise:

QMU has a strong reputation for research and innovation in various fields.

Supportive Campus Environment:

Students are provided with a welcoming and supportive community.

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Academic Programs:

QMU offers a diverse range of academic programs, including:

Undergraduate Study:

Various undergraduate degrees across different disciplines.

Postgraduate Study:

Master's degrees and postgraduate research opportunities.

Continuing Professional Development (CPD):

Short courses and online programs for professional development.

Online Learning:

100% online master's courses for flexible learning.

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Other:

• QMU is committed to social justice and nurturing individuals while promoting collective support.
• The university actively engages with the community through outreach programs and events.
• QMU has a strong international presence with a diverse student body and partnerships with institutions worldwide.
• The university is undergoing a transformation of its teaching and learning spaces to enhance the student experience.