Bath Spa University, BA (Hons), Graphic Communication

Year 1: A broad introduction to visual communication includes drawing; printmaking; photography; design methods; typography; bookbinding and digital media; students are encouraged to think visually and analytically; engage with craft processes and put it all to work in exercises and projects; other key skills develop their ability to communicate; to work as part of a team; and to take responsibility for their learning; a module in historical and critical studies introduces a contextual framework to their work and a study trip extends their knowledge of design contexts. Year 2: Students can choose to focus on graphic communication; illustration or interactive media; or develop an interdisciplinary approach; working across media; students begin to negotiate the content of their work with tutors; bringing their own enthusiasms and interests as motivation; a professional studies module includes visits to studios; investigating case studies and researching employment possibilities; from the beginning of semester 4 students may choose to double the time and assessment weighting given to historical and critical studies. Year 3: Study at this level is increasingly student initiated and supported by specialist tutors; students are encouraged to find connections between their studio practice and their contextual studies; this component can continue to have double weighting if they so choose; there are opportunities for working on 'live' briefs to provide experience of dealing with commissions and production issues; the year ends with a public exhibition of work.