BA (Hons) Graphic Communication
Key details
Award
Degree of Bachelor of Arts
UCAS Course Code
J001
Fees
£8,500 per year full-time
Awarding Body
University of East Anglia
Course Length
3 Years
Course Start Date
September 2026
Course overview
The BA (Hons) Graphic Communication degree equips you with the creative, technical, and professional skills to succeed in the dynamic creative industries. Graduates have achieved award-winning recognition in international design competitions and secured careers in advertising, branding, publishing, illustration, and digital communication.
You will explore both traditional and emerging formats, including UX and web design, video, and augmented and virtual reality, while developing a personal style that reflects your strengths and interests. The curriculum balances broad learning with specialist focus, encouraging creativity, critical thinking, and professional practice.
The course provides extensive real-world experience through live client briefs, accredited internships, and networking with industry professionals. Guest lectures from renowned designers and study visits to museums, galleries, and studios further enrich your learning. By the end of the programme, you will have a strong portfolio, practical experience, and the confidence to thrive in the creative sector.
Why study with us?
Globally recognised degrees from the University of East Anglia (UEA)
Small class sizes with experienced tutors guiding your learning
Strong links with local employers and industry experts
100% of our undergraduate students are satisfied with the quality of the course
What you’ll study
In your first year, you will develop core skills in digital and visual communication, typography, design history, and professional practice, while gaining hands-on experience with industry-standard tools and client-facing projects. Modules include:
- Digital and Emerging Technologies
- Visual Communication
- Introduction to Typography
- History of Contemporary Graphic Design
- Work-Based Learning
Your second year builds on foundational skills, focusing on advanced design thinking, editorial and publication design, professional research methods, internships, and self-directed projects. This level emphasises applying skills in real-world and competitive contexts. Modules include:
- Editorial and Publication Design
- Advanced Divergent Thinking Graphic Design
- Research Methods
- Internship
- Negotiated Project
In your final year, you will undertake major independent projects, commercial collaborations, and professional campaigns. This level focuses on consolidating your skills, preparing a strong portfolio, and producing work aligned with your career ambitions. Modules include:
- Commercial Collaboration
- Undergraduate Dissertation
- Integrated Media and Digital Communications
- Signature Brief
Future careers
Graduates of BA (Hons) Graphic Communication are well-prepared for a wide range of professional roles across the creative industries. Typical pathways include:
PUBLISHING AND ILLUSTRATION
Salary: £20,000-£40,000+
DIGITAL AND WEB DESIGN
Salary: £25,000-£50,000+
MARKETING AND ADVERTISING
Salary: £25,000-£50,000+
Data collected by Lightcast. Lightcast is a leading provider of labour market analytics, offering data-driven insights to connect people with jobs. It integrates economic, labour market, demographic, and job posting data from various sources
Facilities
Study in a vibrant and welcoming space at our University and Professional Development Centre, designed to support learners of all ages and backgrounds. From our well-equipped library and quiet study zone, to social spaces like Costa Coffee, to dedicated computer areas and an innovative XR Lab, you’ll have everything you need to excel. You’ll have access beyond timetabled hours, giving you the freedom to study, collaborate and work on projects whenever inspiration strikes.
Explore our creative resources in more detail using our interactive 3D map:
Hear from our students
Libby Minns
Charlie Kidd
Fees and entry requirements
UCAS Tariff: 96
A Level: CCC
BTEC L3 Ext. Diploma: MMM
Applicants who do not meet the published entry requirements will be considered on an individual basis based upon prior learning and relevant experience.
Tuition Fees
This course is £8,500 per year. Find out how to secure student finance here.
Course Related Costs
Please see the Course Factsheet for details on other course-related costs.
Funding and Bursaries
Please see Additional Funding and Bursaries for more information.
Click here to view the full Course Factsheet.
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How to apply
Apply for this course through the University and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS), using the UCAS Hub. UCAS Hub is a secure online application system that allows you to apply for the full-time undergraduate courses at University and Colleges in the United Kingdom.
Please search for ‘West Suffolk College‘ as the institution name on UCAS.
Progressing students at Eastern Education Group
If you are already a student within the Eastern Education Group (West Suffolk College, Abbeygate Sixth Form College or One Sixth Form College), or have been within the last three years, you can apply directly through our Internal Application Form and save up to £1,000 off your first-year tuition fees*.
*This course is Subject to Validation.
**The College offers a discount to students who have studied a full-time qualification within the Eastern Education Group in the past three years. Fixed discounts of £1,000 on the first year of a degree course and £500 for first year of a HNC, HTQ or HND course. Students are only allowed to benefit from one discount within any three-year period. Higher or degree apprenticeships are not eligible for this award. The College reserves the right to remove this offer at any time. Other terms and conditions are not affected by this offer.
Disclaimer: There is no need to apply for this award. Full terms and conditions as outlined apply. The progression discounts are in place for students applying to start at University Centre at Eastern Education Group for entry in the same year as their application. Students must be enrolled and in attendance at University Centre at Eastern Education Group.