BA (Hons) in Design (Visual Communication)
Course code: WD137
What is Visual Communication?
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. The area has expanded rapidly with the arrival of new technology and this has expanded the problem solving design principals of traditional design practise.
What is the BA (Hons) in Design (Visual Communication)?
This is an exciting four year degree programme, which prepares students for employment in the advertising and design arena. Course modules are listed below.
The programme 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 programme include graphic design/typography in print and screen, together with printmaking, digital media, photography and illustration.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the BA (Hons) in Design (Visual Communication) find work in the following areas:
- Advertising Agencies
- Design Consultancies
- Photography & Digital Media
- Television
- Screen & Web Design
- Public Relations & Marketing
- Illustration
- Printing & Digital Output
- Publishing & Editorial Design
- Photo & Image Libraries
Special Feature of the Programme
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.
Follow on Study
Graduates can proceed to postgraduate Higher Diploma in Art & Design in Education and to Masters Research.
Course Outline
| Semester 1 | Semester 2 |
| Colour/3D Properties Drawing/observation Paint/Print Making 3D Materials/Construction Information Technology Critical Thinking |
History/Theory Research Methodologies Lettering Typography/Design Photography Introduction Digital Media |
| Semester 3 | Semester 4 |
| Design Intent Experimental Mark Making Practical Photography Graphic Reproduction Drawing For Print Making History/Theory |
Design Realisation Illustration Photography Design Reproduction Legal Aspects History/Theory Design |
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Semester 5 & 6 |
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In Semesters 5 & 6 of the programme students are provided with the opportunity to explore innovative visual communication through the specialisation of major and minor areas of study most appropriate to the individual. The pathways give greater choice and flexibility and include graphic design, illustration and digital screen design together with digital media and photography as added specialisations. |
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Semester 7 & 8 |
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| In Semesters 7 & 8 there is a major project which is a collaboration between industry, academic staff and the student. This allows for valuable experience to be gained in a supported environment working on real design jobs. The theory and historical coursework merge with the practice-based creative programme allowing the graduate a cross-fertilisation of understanding of the broader world of visual communication. | |
Course Facts
Course Title: BA (Hons) in Design (Visual Communication)
Course Code: WD137
Course Level: 8
Duration: 4 years
Course Entry
Leaving Certificate:
- Total number of different subjects at grade D or better: 6
- Number of subjects at higher level, grade C or better (Hons): 2
Required Subjects:
- Art: OB3/HC3
- English/Irish: OD3/HD3
- Mathematics: OD3/HD3
For further inforamtion
Course Leader: Mr. Lorenzo Tonti
Ph: 051 845561. Email: LTonti@wit.ie
Recent Entry Points
| Year | 2006 | 2007 | 2008 | 2009 | 2010 |
| Minimum Points | 285 | 280 | 300 | 300 | 300 |
But don't just take our word...
“I graduated with honours in 2003. I then went to Dublin to work with Red Dog Design Consultancy. This award winning Design Company allowed me the opportunity to mix with clients and learn the business end of the advertising and design industry. Along with my day job, I handled design projects in my own time. This aided in building my creative experience which all helped me in going out on my own.
One of the great things about the design course was meeting other like-minded people and learning from each other. I enjoyed all of the subjects and I particularly liked subjects such as photography and history of design/theory”.
Lisa Duffy, (Hons) BA in Design (Visual Communication)
