Program Overview

Introduction to the Graphic Design BDes (Hons) Program

The Graphic Design BDes (Hons) program is offered by the Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art & Design at the University of Dundee. This program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive education in graphic design, covering both theoretical and practical aspects of the field.

Teaching and Assessment

The program's teaching methods include:

• Lectures
• Small tutorial groups
• One-to-one support
• Workshops

Assessment is conducted by module tutors, who evaluate completed work and supporting studies at the end of each module part. These assessments are combined to provide a final mark for the module.

Modules

The program consists of various modules, which are categorized into levels and core or optional modules.

Level 1 Modules

• DJ11001 - Ways of Drawing
• DJ11002 - Thinking through Making
• DJ11003 - Connecting Colour and Symbol
• DJ12001 - Future Discipline
• DJ12002 - Beyond the Studio

Core Modules

These modules are essential parts of the course:

• Communication Design Context 1 (DJ21010)
• Graphic Design Toolkit (DJ21020)
• Communication Design Context 2 (DJ22009)
• Expanding Graphic Design (DJ22020)
• Graphic Design Development (DJ31052)
• Shape Your Future (DJ31054)
• Alternative Futures Part 1 (DJ32004)
• Defining Graphic Design (DJ32019)
• Graphic Design Final Projects (DJ40005)
• Alternative Futures Part 2 (DJ41001)

Optional Modules

Students need to choose one or more of these modules as part of their course:

• Art, Science and Visual Thinking (DJ31001)
• The Contemporary Portrait (DJ31004)
• Print and Printability (DJ31005)
• The Undiscovered Landscape (DJ31009)
• Principles of Visual Effects (DJ31015)
• Comic Art & Graphic Novels (DJ31017)
• Critical Making: Materials & Fabrication (DJ31019)
• Thinking Photography (DJ31039)
• Contemporary Painting (DJ31040)
• Communication in Moving Image (DJ31043)
• Design for Living: The Domestic Object (DJ31045)
• AI in Creative Practices (DJ31048)

Program Details

• Date of entry: September 2026
• The program is designed to support students' learning through various teaching methods and assessments, ensuring they gain a deep understanding of graphic design principles and practices.
• Students will have the opportunity to explore different aspects of graphic design, from traditional techniques to digital applications, and develop their skills in visual communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving.