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The MA Graphic Design: Branding and Digital Strategy is designed for graduates of BA (Hons) Graphic Design (or related degrees) looking to take their skills to the next level. Whether you’re working in design already or have recently completed your undergraduate studies, this course offers a unique opportunity to refine your expertise and expand your creative potential in the realms of graphic design, branding, and digital communications.
This flexible programme has been carefully crafted to fit around your professional commitments, offering both full-time and part-time study options. This flexibility ensures that you can pursue your postgraduate qualification without having to sacrifice your career or personal life. We understand that achieving a balance between study and work is crucial, and our schedule allows you to manage your time effectively while still delivering outstanding results.
Throughout the course, you will be challenged to think innovatively and push the boundaries of your current design practice. The focus is on developing strategic, creative thinking within the context of modern branding and digital design. By working on realistic projects, you will enhance your ability to create dynamic solutions and communication strategies for an ever-evolving digital world.
A standout feature of this programme is its integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology within the learning process. AI tools are now integral to the design industry, and this course ensures you are equipped with the skills to harness the potential of AI in your work. You’ll explore how AI can support your creative decisions, streamline workflows, and offer new approaches to problem-solving in branding and digital design. With the rapidly evolving role of AI in design, you’ll be well-placed to lead in a future where technology and creativity go hand in hand.
This qualification offers an opportunity to transform your approach to design and to position yourself at the forefront of the creative industry. Whether you’re a freelance professional or educator, or aiming to work within a design agency, the skills, insights, and expertise gained throughout the course will prepare you for the challenges of a fast-changing digital world.
Key Information
Course Level
Level 7
Delivery
Full-Time
Duration
1 Year FT, 2 Years PT
Awarding Body
This course includes the following core modules that all students complete*:
A: Full Time 1 Year
Trimester 1 (September to December)
GDBDS1: Foundations of Digital Design (15 Credits)
GDBDS2: User-Centred Design and Research (15 Credits)
GDBDS3: Digital Strategy for Design (30 Credits)
Trimester 2 (January to April)
GDBDS4: Ideation and Concept Development (15 Credits)
GDBDS5: Digital Advertising (15 Credits)
GDBDS6: Branding Design Innovation (30 Credits)
Trimester 3 (May to July)
GDBDS7: Digital Dimensions (Field of Study (30 Credits)
GDBDS8: Major Project and Portfolio Showcase (30 Credits)
B: Part-Time (2 Years)
Year 1
Trimester 1 (September to December)
GDBDS1: Foundations of Digital Design (15 Credits)
GDBDS2: User-Centred Design and Research (15 Credits)
Trimester 2 (January to April)
GDBDS3: Digital Strategy for Design (30 Credits)
Trimester 3 (May to July)
GDBDS4: Ideation and Concept Development (15 Credits)
GDBDS5: Digital Advertising (15 Credits)
Year 2
Trimester 1 (September to December)
GDBDS6: Branding Design Innovation (30 Credits)
Trimester 2 (January to April)
GDBDS7: Digital Dimensions (Field of Study (30 Credits)
Trimester 3 (May to July)
GDBDS8: Major Project and Portfolio Showcase (30 Credits)
*Occasional changes to modules and course content may take place. Students will be notified when applicable.
The flexible, fully online delivery mode of this MA programme allows students to balance their professional commitments with academic study. The programme includes introductory tasks, workshops, and virtual classroom webinars, simulating face-to-face learning. Tutor feedback is provided through online platforms, and students maintain a digital Project Development Journal to track their research, development, and final outcomes, reflecting on their learning.
Students will complete learning and assessment activities designed to build knowledge and skills based on programme competencies. Clear instructions on objectives, module content, and assessments will guide them through each task. Additionally, a community of practice will be fostered, encouraging collaboration and peer feedback, with opportunities to apply learning to live projects and design sector competitions.
The programme embraces inclusive teaching strategies, diversifying course content to highlight the work of designers from diverse backgrounds, including minority ethnic groups and LGBTQ+ perspectives. Students are encouraged to engage in respectful online discussions and collaborate on group projects across different identities. Assignments are designed to promote inclusivity, such as creating campaigns or designs for diverse audiences.
Portfolio Review (if applicable): Applicants from design-related disciplines should submit a digital portfolio demonstrating their creative abilities. This may include branding projects, digital design work, UX/UI examples, illustrations, motion graphics, or other relevant visual communication projects. Applicants from non-design backgrounds may provide alternative evidence of their creative and strategic thinking, such as report-based marketing campaigns, brand analysis, content strategies, or research-led projects.
Evidence of Relevant Experience: The programme values diverse forms of experience and recognises that applicants may come from a variety of academic and professional backgrounds. While prior industry experience is beneficial, it is not a requirement. Instead, applicants can demonstrate their potential in a range of ways, including:
- Self-initiated or Academic Projects: Research-led branding concepts, digital strategy proposals, business case studies, or creative coursework that showcase analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Internships & Work Placements: Experience in marketing, communications, design, digital media, or brand strategy through internships at agencies, start-ups, or corporate settings.
- Freelance or Personal Projects: Independent branding, marketing, digital content creation, social media campaigns, or entrepreneurial projects that reflect strategic and creative thinking.
- Collaborative or Interdisciplinary Work: Participation in group projects, competitions, community initiatives, or interdisciplinary research that demonstrates an understanding of branding, digital media, and consumer engagement.
- Certifications & Skills Development: Completion of relevant courses or certifications (e.g.: Adobe Creative Suite, digital marketing, UX/UI design, data analytics, coding for digital media) that support skill-building in branding and digital strategy.
We are committed to creating educational opportunities for people from a variety of backgrounds and situations. If you have been out of formal education for some time, and/or you do not have the qualifications stated, we might still be able to consider your application and offer you a range of support. We are here to help. Please get in touch to find out more.
Progression opportunities for graduates with the MA Graphic Design: Branding and Digital Strategy qualification include:
Continuing Education
Graduates may choose to pursue further academic qualifications such as a PhD in Graphic Design, Branding, Marketing, or other associated fields. This allows them to explore deeper into research or specialise in specific areas of interest within the field.
Career Advancement
With their advanced qualification, graduates can progress to higher-level positions within their current organisation or seek opportunities in larger companies or agencies. Potential roles include Creative Director, Brand Strategist, Marketing Manager, UX/UI Designer, or Digital Marketing Specialist.
Entrepreneurship
Some graduates may choose to start their own design or branding consultancy, leveraging their expertise and portfolio developed during the MA programme. Entrepreneurial opportunities include launching a design studio, branding or digital marketing agency.
Specialised Training Programmes
Graduates may opt for specialised training programmes or workshops to further enhance their skills in specific areas such as UX design, digital advertising, or branding strategy. These programmes can provide additional certifications and practical experience outside of the MA.
Networking and Professional Associations
Joining professional associations and networking groups within the digital design and marketing industries can provide valuable opportunities for career advancement, mentorship, and collaboration. Graduates can participate in events, conferences, and online communities to expand their professional network.
Partnerships with Industry
Collaborative and established strong connections with companies and agencies in the design and branding sector provides valuable opportunities for students to gain practical experience and secure employment after graduation.
Professional Development Workshops
Organised professional development workshops, seminars, and guest lectures featuring industry experts and thought leaders. These events will cover topics such as portfolio building, job search strategies, freelance business management, and entrepreneurship, equipping students with practical skills and knowledge to succeed in the design industry.
Financial Support
UK students can take out a tuition fee loan to cover the cost of their course and a maintenance loan to cover living costs.
We also have a range of other financial support available.
Course Fees
UK
£7940.00 FT
£3970.00 PT PER YEAR
Additional Costs
Your Tuition fees cover most costs associated with your course (including registration, tuition, and assessment).
There may be some extra costs that you might need to make, or choose to pay, for example:
- Books (students will have access to books from their module reading lists in the HE virtual library, but they may want to buy their own copies). Printing and photocopying
- Trips and enhancement opportunities
- Specialist Mac or PC desktop/laptop for working remotely.
- As the programme requires vocational hours within the Mental Health and Wellbeing arena, you may be required to pay for an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service check if you are not in possession of a current one or registered on the update service.
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