Graphic Design Communication BA (Hons)

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

Technological University of the Shannon: Midlands Midwest

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Graphic Design Communication at Technological University of the Shannon: Midlands Midwest is a three-year creative degree that develops students into imaginative and versatile visual designers capable of addressing complex communication challenges across analogue and digital platforms. It is suited to students passionate about visual problem-solving, design thinking, and practical creative work, preparing them for a broad range of professional roles in design and media.

Curriculum Structure

First Year
In the first year, students establish foundational skills through core design studio activities, learning the basics of graphic communication, visual language, and concept development. Modules include hands-on workshops in typography, photography, illustration, and design production, building essential creative confidence and technical abilities to approach real-world design challenges.

Second Year
The second year enhances practical and critical design skills through continued Design Communication projects, including brand identity and digital design briefs. Students also study Professional Practice to understand industry contexts and Critical and Contextual Studies to explore how design intersects with cultural, social, and historical frameworks.

Third Year
In the third year, students engage with advanced Design Communication projects such as design strategy and UX/UI, while Professional Practice prepares them to compile a cohesive professional portfolio and pursue work placements or international exchanges. Critical and Contextual Studies continues to develop the ability to analyse and articulate design thinking and cultural perspectives in professional practice.

Focus Areas (in a string)
Visual design practice, typography and image making, branding and identity, UX/UI and digital design, professional placement readiness, critical and contextual design studies

Learning Outcomes (in a string)
Ability to generate creative visual solutions, apply design thinking across media platforms, communicate visually with clarity and impact, situate design work in cultural contexts, and build a professional design portfolio

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)
The programme awards a Level 8 Honours Bachelor of Arts degree on the Irish National Framework of Qualifications and is fully recognised by Technological University of the Shannon: Midlands Midwest, ensuring strong academic and professional credentials.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)
Graduates are prepared for roles in graphic design, advertising, UX/UI and web design, motion and screen design, typographic and packaging design, illustration, and other creative industries, benefiting from the course’s emphasis on practical skills, professional readiness, and broad creative capability.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

The Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Graphic Design Communication at the Technological University of the Shannon: Midlands Midwest is a studio‑centred, hands‑on degree that prepares students for professional creative careers. From the first year, students engage in real design briefs, practical studio projects and collaborative design challenges, learning to communicate visually with purpose and clarity. The programme emphasises both conceptual thinking and technical execution, ensuring students are comfortable with professional design processes and industry tools. As part of their learning journey, students build a portfolio of creative work that reflects their growing capabilities and personal design voice:

• Studio Projects and Real‑World Briefs — Students complete a range of design tasks across branding, editorial design, packaging, and digital graphics that mirror professional practice.
• Industry‑Standard Digital Tools — Coursework includes practical use of current design and multimedia software, giving students confidence with tools used in creative industries.
• Collaborative Design Challenges — Group work and peer design reviews help students develop teamwork, communication, and creative problem‑solving skills.
• Design Critiques and Presentations — Regular critique sessions allow students to present work publicly, strengthen visual communication skills, and learn to interpret constructive feedback.
• Portfolio Development — Students consistently build a professional portfolio throughout the programme, preparing them for employment or freelance opportunities after graduation.

Academic Environment and Learning Facilities
The university supports students with facilities that nurture creative practice and professional growth:

• Design Studios and Creative Workspaces — Dedicated, open studios allow students to explore ideas, experiment with media, and collaborate with peers.
• Computer Labs with Creative Software — Well‑equipped labs provide access to current design and multimedia tools for digital project work.
• Print and Production Areas — On‑campus facilities support print preparation, model making, and material exploration.
• Library and Research Resources — A comprehensive library collection supports research in design principles, visual culture, and communication theory.
• Student Support Services — Academic guidance and careers support help students refine portfolios, connect with industry placements, and prepare for graduate opportunities.

Graduate Preparation and Future Pathways
Graduates from the programme are prepared for careers in graphic design, branding, advertising, user interface support, publication design, motion graphics, and visual content creation. The portfolio‑centred approach ensures that students leave with both the creative competence and practical experience needed to thrive in design studios, agencies, and creative industries, or to pursue further specialised study in design or related creative fields.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the BA (Honours) in Graphic Design Communication at Technological University of the Shannon are prepared for dynamic careers where design thinking meets visual communication across digital and traditional platforms. Typical roles include Graphic Designer, UX/UI Designer, Motion Graphics Artist, and Brand & Visual Communication Specialist, reflecting the broad range of skills developed throughout the programme.

Progression & Future Opportunities:
The programme combines practical experience, industry engagement, and employability support to ensure graduates are career-ready:

University Career and Employability Services: The university provides personalised guidance including one-to-one career support, CV and portfolio reviews, interview preparation, mock interviews, employer engagement, workshops, and networking events to connect students with industry opportunities.
Employment Statistics and Salary Outlook: Graduates demonstrate high employability, with a large majority securing relevant employment within nine months of graduation, reflecting strong demand for creative and design skills in Ireland and internationally.
Industry-Relevant Experience: The programme includes professional practice, placements, or international exchange opportunities, giving students real-world experience through client briefs or professional projects.
Accreditation and Long-Term Value: This BA (Honours) is a Level 8 qualification on Ireland’s National Framework of Qualifications, providing international recognition and credibility for career progression globally.
Graduation Outcomes: Graduates leave with expertise in visual problem-solving, typography, digital media, UX/UI, illustration, motion graphics, and brand strategy, equipping them to succeed in creative industries, advertising, digital platforms, and visual communication roles.

Further Academic Progression:
Graduates of the BA (Honours) in Graphic Design Communication may pursue postgraduate study such as Master’s degrees in Design, Visual Communication, Digital Media, UX/UI, Interaction Design, Creative Media, or Communication Strategy at TUS or other universities. These pathways enhance specialist knowledge, research capabilities, and opportunities for leadership roles, advanced creative practice, or academic careers.