Choose graphic design to help you transform ordinary ideas into extraordinary visual stories, shaping the way we perceive and interact with the world.
Studying graphic design is about honing your artistic skills and delving into the strategic use of visuals to convey powerful messages. From learning about design software to understanding the principles of colour theory and composition, you learn to craft compelling visual stories.
It leads to exciting career paths, including roles as a graphic designer, art director, UX/UI designer, or brand strategist. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, graphic designers create impactful visual content for websites, products, apps, social media, and marketing campaigns.
With the ability to shape perceptions and trigger emotions through design, you’ll be well-equipped for a world where visual communication is crucial to success across industries.
The impact you could make
- Create engaging educational materials that enhance learning.
- Advocate for inclusivity by creating visually accessible designs that consider diverse audiences.
- Create sustainable and eco-friendly designs.
What you could study
- Web design
- UI and interactive design
- UX design
- Advertising and marketing
- Motion graphics and animation
- Packaging design
- Game design
- Illustration
- Publication and typographic design
Example module
"When we get to do exhibitons of our work, and put it out to be trialed in a public setting is always a pretty exciting feeling."
Second year graphic design student at University of Brighton
Example project
“We did a project for a fake exhibition at the Barbican which explored typography and texture, which have always been favourites of mine.”
Second year graphic design student at University of Lincoln
Computing
IT
Design
Hard skills you'll develop
- Learn industry-standard design software such as Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign
- Understand colour principles, including the colour wheel and colour harmony
- Knowledge of print design principles
- Digital design for online platforms, including web design, social media graphics, and interactive user interfaces
Soft skills you'll develop
- Analyse design problems and evaluate potential solutions
- Attention to detail
- Adaptability to evolving design trends
- Collaboration and communication skills
Available jobs
72,485 vacancies in the past year
1.8% growth over next 8 years
Average salary
£26,173
Up to £53,294
What is a… virtual reality experience designer?
Imagine letting your creativity run wild outside of the real world… That’s exactly what a VR experience designer can do. With conventional rules null and void their creativity knows no bounds, creating environments where users can not only witness but actively engage with the stories they’re in. Whether designing educational material, thrilling entertainment experiences, or innovative training modules, these designers love to push the boundaries of what’s possible in the world of VR.
Getting in: Entry requirements
Find out more about what you'll need to study graphic design at university or as an apprenticeship.
Average requirements for undergraduate degrees
Entry requirements differ between university and course, but this should give you a guide to what is usually expected from graphic design applicants.
A levels
BBB
Scottish Highers
CCCCD
Vocational
BTEC DMM
Other subjects you may be interested in
- Digital media, production, and technology
- Marketing
- Media studies
- Photography
- PR and communications
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Canva
You can explore your graphic design skills by designing templates for both academic projects and for fun. -
Abstract: The Art of Design
A Netflix series that steps inside the minds of the most innovative designers in a variety of disciplines and learn how design impacts every aspect of life. -
Keep up to date with the latest news
You'll find all the latest news on the Chartered Society of Designers website.
66% of students
studying graphic design would recommend the subject to others
Skills, experiences, and interests to mention
- What artistic qualities do you have? Maybe it’s proficiency in design software (Adobe Creative Suite, for example), drawing, illustration, or any other relevant techniques that demonstrate your ability to create visually compelling designs.
- Mention your understanding of typography and layout principles, emphasising your ability to arrange visual elements to create balanced and aesthetically pleasing designs.
- Do you have skills in both digital and print design that you can mention?
- Talk about your interest in technology and its impact on design, showing awareness of emerging trends.
- Share any unique perspectives, cultural influences, or personal experiences that contribute to your individual approach to design.
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FeaturedBath Spa UniversityBath
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FeaturedBrunel University LondonUxbridge
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FeaturedUniversity for the Creative ArtsFarnham
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FeaturedImperial College LondonKensington and Chelsea
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FeaturedUniversity of BradfordBradford
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FeaturedUniversity of DerbyDerby
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FeaturedCoventry UniversityCoventry
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FeaturedLIBFCity of London
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FeaturedThe University of LawLondon
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FeaturedUniversity of BrightonBrighton
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FeaturedUniversity of LeicesterLeicester
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FeaturedACM (The Academy of Contemporary Music)Guildford
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FeaturedUniversity of GlasgowGlasgow
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FeaturedUniversity College BirminghamBirmingham
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FeaturedBloomsbury Institute LondonLondon
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FeaturedUniversity of LincolnLincoln
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FeaturedUniversity of KentCanterbury
