Northumbria University

Overview

The MSc in Communication Design at Northumbria University is a multidisciplinary program that emphasizes the effective communication of ideas through visual, digital, and interactive media. This course equips students with advanced skills in branding, typography, graphic design, digital design, animation, and UX/UI, all while focusing on design that fosters positive social change.

What you'll study

The program features a studio-led curriculum that integrates design practice, critical analysis, and collaborative project work. Students will engage in various modules that progress from foundational concepts to advanced communication outcomes.

• Contextualise and Critique: Analyze communication challenges, design histories, and contemporary practices while developing critical frameworks for your projects.
• Explore and Experiment: Prototype and test creative ideas across visual, digital, and interactive mediums, enhancing typographic and layout skills.
• Collaborate and Challenge: Engage in team projects to address design briefs, negotiate decisions, and refine outcomes based on constructive feedback.
• Evolve and Expand: Enhance your practice through increasingly complex projects, focusing on research, iteration, and presentation skills.
• Academic Language Skills for Design: Improve academic writing, presentation abilities, and professional communication relevant to the design field.

Capstone / final project: The program culminates in a significant project that showcases your approach to communication design and your preparedness for professional practice.

Entry requirements

• Academic qualification: A minimum of a Lower Second Class (2:2) honours degree in a relevant design discipline such as graphic design, interaction design, product design, illustration, fine art, film, fashion communication, advertising, animation, or a closely related field.
• Portfolio: Submission of an online portfolio is required with your application.
• Work experience: Relevant work experience and/or professional qualifications may also be taken into account for applicants.
• English language: An IELTS score of 6.5 (or equivalent) is typically required, with specified minimum scores in each component. Verify specific requirements with the university.

Application documents: Applicants should provide an online application form, academic transcripts or degree certificates, a portfolio, and any additional supporting statements or references as requested by the university.

Career prospects

Upon completion of the program, graduates are well-prepared for diverse career paths in the field of communication design, including roles in branding, digital media, user experience design, and animation. The skills acquired during the course will enable graduates to make meaningful contributions to various industries, driving positive social impact through effective design.