Visual Communication is often referred to as graphic design and it embraces symbols, type and images that appear in the commercial public domain.
Graphic designers work across a wide variety of print and screen disciplines and the end result is normally a creative output in 2D format. With the arrival of digital and mobile technology, visual communication now includes visual media, information design and screen-based design.
What is the BA (Hons) in Design (Visual Communications)?
This is a four year degree course, which prepares students for employment in the advertising and design area.
The course reflects academic and creative input, which is required for the dynamic nature of commercial graphic design. The degree has been designed to be innovative, consisting of studio practice, design history, marketing, legal and visual culture. The practice-based elements of the course include graphic design/typography in print and design, illustration, together with printmaking, digital media and photography
Special Feature of the Course
The primary learning curve is to develop strong creativity that will result in building confidence through experimentation. Other special features include legal aspects and entrepreneurial development.
Year 1
Semester 1
Semester 2
Design Core One - Principles of Design
Design Core Two - Typographic Design
Design Technology One
Design Technology Two
Illustration One
Illustration Two
Photography One
Photography Two
Writing & Study Skills
Research Methods
Year 2
Semester 3
Semester 4
Design Core Three - Poster Design
Design Core Four - Logotype Design
Design Technology Three
Design Technology Four
Image-making One
Image Making Two
Design Culture One
Design Culture Two
Year 3
Semester 5
Semester 6
Design Core Five - Branding Design
Design Core Six - Packaging Design
Image-making Three
Design Culture Four
Design Culture Three
Legal Aspects of Design
Marketing for Design
Choose two of the following electives:
*Film Studies
*Independent Study
*Legal Aspects
* = Elective
The delivery of electives will depend on the demand and resources available
Year 4
Semester 7
Semester 8
Design Core Seven - The Design Brief
Design Core Eight - Complete Design Brief
Design Culture Five (Thesis)
Entrepreneurial Skills
Design Studio Practice
Leaving Cert: Minimum entry requirements for BA (Hons) in Design (Visual Communications)
2 subjects: H5 4 subjects: O6/H7 English or Irish: O6/H7 Mathematics: O6/H7 Art or Design & Communication Graphics: O3/H5
Advanced and Equivalent Entry for BA (Hons) in Design (Visual Communications):
