MA Visual Communication: Graphic Design

Program Overview

The MA Visual Communication: Graphic Design program at the University of Cambridge is an intensive, studio-based program that combines creative and professional development. Students develop imaginative and conceptually distinctive visual practices through rigorous specialist expertise, preparing them for a wide range of creative ambitions. The program features industry-active professionals as instructors, experimental project briefs, and opportunities for creative collaborations and internships. Graduates pursue careers in graphic design, filmmaking, photography, art direction, and other creative fields.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The MA Visual Communication: Graphic Design is an intensive contemporary program that combines creative and professional development within a nurturing, experimental, interdisciplinary, studio-based environment. The course focuses on developing imaginative and conceptually distinctive visual practices, where qualities of invention and discovery are underpinned by rigorous specialist expertise, preparing students to achieve a broad range of creative ambitions.

Outline:

Study Block 1 / Autumn Term:

• Visual Grammar (40 credits):
This module builds knowledge of essential skills in graphic communication design. Students undertake individual and collaborative projects to strengthen their understanding of the fundamental principles of graphic design. They explore new methods and materials in typography, editorial design, branding, and motion graphics, connecting to the history and theory of graphic communication.
• Research Practice (20 credits):
Students develop advanced research skills and methods, including primary and secondary research, analysis of objects, images, and texts. They build critical thinking and academic study skills necessary for postgraduate study.

Study Block 2 / Spring Term:

• Design Practice (40 credits):
Students explore new directions, platforms, and design situations. They respond to conceptual, professional, and live briefs, building confidence to identify their focus and develop their self-initiated project. They explore the expanded field of graphic communication design, applying design thinking to critical and socially oriented projects.
• Creative Futures (20 credits):
Students engage with art and design in a social context, exploring critical, technological, environmental, geopolitical, and ethical issues. They may apply for work experience or identify a professional context for a project. They finalize the development of a proposal for their final Master's project.

Study Block 3 / Summer Term:

• Independent Major Project:
Students focus on the research, development, and production of their Independent Major Project. They lead the project with support from group seminars, 1:1 tutorials, and technical support. They consider the professional and public presentation of their final projects, culminating in a group showcase and catalogue.

Assessment:

The program's assessment methods include:

• Visual, material, and written assignments and projects

Teaching:

• The program offers specialist tuition from industry-active professional designers, artists, visual communicators, and researchers.
• Imaginative and contemporary project briefs prioritize experimental practical approaches and are underpinned by research-led conceptual understanding.
• Students engage in creative collaborations with Academic Faculty, Departments, Colleges, Doctoral Researchers, and Undergraduate students at the University of Cambridge.
• Workshops, talks, and projects provide access to contemporary creative industry expertise.
• Students have access to a competitive internship scheme in partnership with Hearst Magazines UK.
• Personalized support and extensive 1:1 tutorial time are available.

Careers:

Potential career paths for graduates of the program include:

• Graphic Designer
• Graphic Artist
• Filmmaker
• Photographer
• Art Director
• Visual Communicator
• Artist
• Designer
• Lecturer
• PhD