This course will introduce you to a variety of aspects of graphic design through a range of experiences.
Initially the programme concentrates on attaining the mental, visual and technical skills that are imperative in becoming a successful graphic designer. As you progress, the course follows a series of themes from semester to semester. These themes define broad aspects of graphic design while the projects are designed to help you deal with specific design problems.
Our graduates are highly employable and develop a range of transferable skills whilst studying on the course. This course continues to maintain and expand extensive links with industry; ensuring you gain relevant ‘real world' experience and develop the necessary skills demanded by today's graphic design industry.
National and international design competitions offer you commercial and industrial experience in preparation for the world of work and/or further study at postgraduate level.
Year 1
Introduces you to the basic intellectual, visual and technical skills required by all graphic designers. You will also acquire and apply basic knowledge of design methods; creative/critical thinking; presentation and communication.
Year 2
You will continue to develop and apply previously gained knowledge of design methods. The curriculum follows a series of themes that define broader aspects of the graphic design discipline. Projects concentrate on responding to the requirements of industry partners.
Year 3
You will continue working with industry partners and practicing designers on live projects. In semester 2 you can opt to undertake an industrial placement or study overseas as part of our European exchange programme. Alternatively you can collaborate on a studio-based self-directed project with one of our industry partners and study the specific requirements of new business start-ups.
Year 4
In the self-directed Honours year you will select your preferred area of interest and aim to produce a body of resolved design work at a level appropriate to the threshold of professional practice.
Year 1 Entry
SQA Higher: BBC preferably to include English and Art/Design or equivalent.
GCE A Level: CC preferably to include English and Art/Design or equivalent.
Irish Leaving Certificate Higher: BBC1, preferably to include English and Art/Design or equivalent.
IB Diploma: 24, including Visual Arts and English at Higher Level or equivalent.
Entry to year 1 is subject to an interview and the presentation of a portfolio of work.
Alternative Qualifications: HNC, Access to Higher Education Programmes or equivalent qualifications may also be considered. Applications are welcome from students where work experience replaces formal qualifications. Evidence of competence in written work may be required. Equivalent international qualifications plus evidence of proficiency in English for overseas students will be required.
Year 2 Entry: Entry to year 2 and later would be subject to an interview and the presentation of a portfolio of work. Accompanying qualifications may include HND, Diploma in Foundation Studies in Art or equivalent qualifications.
Interview/Portfolio Review: Suitable applicants will be invited in with their portfolio for an informal review/discussion with academic staff. This allows students to meet staff, see the teaching environment and allows the School to explore your ambitions through informal discussion. You may also be invited to attend an interview.
Special requirements: To provide materials for our students at the best possible prices, we have a Studio Fund for each of our courses. Depending on the course and year, students pay between £20 and £130 annually. This is common practice in art schools throughout the UK.
An optional work placement in year 3, semester 2.
There are international exchange opportunities in year 3, semester 2.
You will be eligible for student membership of the Chartered Society of Designers.
If you are a Scottish resident or EU national you are not liable to pay fees and should apply to SAAS for funding.
Students from other parts of the UK should visit the appropriate website:
Scholarships
For Academic Year 2012/2013
International Students
For Academic Year 2011/2012
UK/EU Students
International Students
All course fees are reviewed annually and subject to change.
For further information see Student Finance pages
You must apply online at UCAS - www.ucas.com/apply.
Once you register and create your username and password, you are guided through the process of applying. After submission, log in to your UCAS Track account and you can see the progress of your application, and view and respond to your offers.
Graphic Designers are employed in a wide variety of industry sectors, including publishing, web design, broadcasting and advertising. Previous graduates are employed by leading companies locally, nationally and internationally. Graduates have also continued onto Postgraduate study, and have even gone on to establish their own successful businesses.
Graduate Gregor Matheson
