Visual communication shapes how we experience the world. The course aims to be a space for active enquiry, challenging design preconceptions and defining the role of the designer in shaping the lives we lead and the world in which we live. BSU offer a professional education to prepare you for the interdisciplinary nature of contemporary practice, based on an awareness of sustainability: economic viability, social and environmental responsibility.

Convergence of new media forms in contemporary communication design determines the content of the course and the way it is taught. The programme offers a broad curriculum in graphic communication. Crossover teaching and interdisciplinary projects provide an energetic and flexible learning environment for creative synergies, whilst specialist areas of study in graphic design, illustration and interactive design are also encouraged, taught by a team of full-time and visiting tutors, all active practitioners themselves. You'll be encouraged to explore and express your ideas through word, image, concept, media, narrative, text, a process of thinking and making that will fully engage head, heart and hand.

• Standard art and design requirements. 
• A portfolio of art and design work. 

Year 1

The course is delivered as a sequence of modules. A broad introduction to visual communication includes drawing, printmaking, photography, design methods, typography, bookbinding and digital media. You'll be encouraged to think visually and analytically, engage with craft processes and put it all to work in exercises and projects. Other key skills will develop your ability to communicate, to work as part of a team, and to take responsibility for your learning. A module in Professional Contexts introduces the range of contemporary professional practice and an awareness of the industry. Historical and critical studies introduce a contextual framework to your work, and a study trip will extend your knowledge of design contexts.

Year 2

You can choose to focus on graphic design, illustration or interactive media, or develop an interdisciplinary approach, working across media. You will begin to negotiate the content of your work with tutors, bringing your own enthusiasms and interests as motivation. There are opportunities to participate in a European Erasmus exchange programme for a semester. A Professional Contexts module includes studio visits, investigating case studies and researching employment possibilities. Near the end of the course, you may choose to double the time and assessment weighting given to historical and critical studies.

Year 3

Independent, self-initiated work forms the basis of the year, supported by specialist tutors and workshops. You are encouraged to find connections between your studio practice and contextual studies, and this component can have double weighting if you so choose. There are opportunities for working on 'live' briefs to provide experience of dealing with commissions and production issues. Professional Contexts studies connect your practice with your professional aspirations and prepare you for employment or further study. The year ends with a public exhibition of work.