BA (Hons) Graphic Design Bachelor's degree at West London
BA (Hons) Graphic Design at West London. You'll engage with specialist options tailored to your interests, undertake an independent project that demonstrates your creative voice, and build the professional capabilities employers expect.
About this course
BA (Hons) Graphic Design is a Bachelor's degree (BA (Hons)) at West London, based in Ealing / Brentford. It runs 4 years, studied full-time.
For Design studies graduates from this provider, 90% were in work or further study 15 months after graduating, 65% in highly skilled roles, typical earnings around £28,000. (HESA Graduate Outcomes / LEO, via Discover Uni.)
For the typical curriculum, specialisations, career paths and graduate earnings for Art & Design, see the sections below.
Course evidence score
The arithmetic mean of the official measures available for this course: NSS satisfaction, graduate activity and continuation.
Published threshold met NSS publication requires sufficient responses; small differences are not a rank. NSS mean of 7 published themes (Discover Uni snapshot 2026-06-21)
Limited evidence Published sample: 15; treat comparisons cautiously. Cohort 2021-23. Graduate Outcomes work or further study 90% (2021-23; Discover Uni snapshot 2026-06-21)
Published threshold met Discover Uni suppresses continuation data below its publication threshold. Cohort 2021-23. Continuation 55% (2021-23; Discover Uni snapshot 2026-06-21)
Curriculum & modules
Real modules published for this course, grouped only where the source gives a year, stage or level.
Level 3 6 modules
- Contextual Studies in Media and DesignCompulsory
Module details
Explore how media and design have developed over the years through changes in technology and society.
- Creative SectorsCompulsory
Module details
This is a specialist module with a career-led and practical focus that will introduce you to the more 'hands on' side of the media and design and communications industries. You will be required to demonstrate some understanding of your chosen subject specialism and future career path.
- Personalised LearningCompulsory
Module details
An opportunity for you to reflect on the skills and qualities that you already have and to identify those that you need to acquire.
- Creative Research in Media and DesignCompulsory
Module details
Undertake the individual research for your major project work whilst learning industry-standard software.
- Study Skills for SuccessCompulsory
Module details
This module will enable you to read critically, present an argument and distinguish between the quality and suitability of materials. It will prepare you to use and evaluate a range of evidence sources throughout your degree.
- Major Project (Foundation Year)Compulsory
Module details
You will work in groups to produce content showcased in the UWL's interactive magazine FOUND.
Level 4 5 modules
- Visual LanguagesCompulsory
Module details
In this module, you'll explore foundational elements of graphic design, visual communication, and illustration with an emphasis on skill development, visual thinking, and literacy to effectively convey meaning through design. You'll experiment with various media, materials, and processes, from pencil and ink to lens and screen.
- Digital FoundationsCompulsory
Module details
This module introduces you to a wide range of essential digital media skills, techniques and approaches to print, web design, interaction design, motion graphics, animation and installation. You will also explore a wide range of software packages, including Adobe Photoshop, InDesign, Illustrator, After Effects and Cinema 4D. As well as relevant coding and scripting languages for example Processing, HTML, and CSS.
- TypographyCompulsory
Module details
This module introduces you to the practice, art and contexts of type and typography. You will learn about and explore the skills, techniques and thinking required to develop an effective and creative use of this fundamental part of graphic design.
- Design ContextsCompulsory
Module details
In this module, you will learn how we give things meaning and how this is represented through systems of language, signs and symbols and how designers can represent or re-present the world in terms of meaningful concepts or ideas.
- Ideas and ProcessCompulsory
Module details
This module will introduce the development of ideas and processes and how this will inform design solutions appropriate for use in professional practice and employment.
Level 5 5 modules
- Word and ImageCompulsory
Module details
In this module, you will have the opportunity to develop useful and compelling work through creative play, experimentation and the creation of design solutions.
- Design Contexts and Critical ResearchCompulsory
Module details
In this module you will build and develop on the research and analysis that took place at L4 in Design Contexts by examining visual culture through the articulation of beliefs and value systems, exploring further ways of considering contemporary issues and their bearing on visual culture.
- Narrative Structures and MotionCompulsory
Module details
In this module, you will work with a range of media to explore and examine the nature and creation of visual narratives across creative practice. It will encompass, but not be limited to, illustration, motion, film, animation, video games and publishing and their historical and contemporary contexts.
- Designing for Innovation and InteractionCompulsory
Module details
In this module, taught sessions will introduce you to and explore concepts that include use cases, mental models, accessibility, prototyping, testing and narratives. With additional workshops and activities on interaction design (IxD) and technology including menus, toolbars, icons and symbols, motion, coding, scripting, and typography on screen.
- Developing Design PracticeCompulsory
Module details
This module will teach you how to apply theoretical knowledge in a practical setting, promoting activities and practices relevant at a professional level to create solutions to solve client problems. It includes studying creative standards, analysing project briefs, and examining current trends in visual communication and graphic design.
Level 6 4 modules
- Major ProjectCompulsory
Module details
In the final year of your degree course, you will create your own project with a high degree of independence. The module will commence with a series of sessions focusing on key aspects necessary for success in the undertaking of a dissertation project including organisational skills, research ethics, managing resources and professional practice. Following this, you will start a self-managed design project of your choosing with guidance and support.
- Experimental CommunicationsCompulsory
Module details
You will have the chance to challenge conventional wisdom and discover innovative solutions for design challenges. You will look at laser cutting, 3D printing, projection, experimental animation, glitch and more. Through your assignments you will explore experimental communication techniques and learn to mix and match unconventional approaches from different disciplines.
- Presenting and PortfolioCompulsory
Module details
This module will facilitate the finessing, creation, curation and compilation of your portfolio, or portfolios, that contain the diverse range of work that best represents you as a skilful and effective communicator, that exemplifies your independent voice and direction and supports your future career aspirations.
- Professional Design Practice and PositioningCompulsory
Module details
During this module you will examine and use a range of ideation and design methodologies, image-making techniques and software. Through various workshops and activities, you will have the opportunity to explore topics you are curious and passionate about, creating new work that will expand the range and relevance of your portfolio.
Source: provider course page. Modules can change; required/optional status, credits, descriptions and assessment are shown only when explicitly published.
Course in depth
What this course covers, who it suits and where it leads.
What you'll study
A BA (Hons) in Graphic Design at the University of West London takes a studio-based approach grounded in visual and conceptual foundations. In your first year, you'll usually study visual studies and design principles, colour, composition and form, alongside materials and processes across print, textiles and digital fabrication. Contextual studies in art and design history inform your practice throughout. As you progress, you'll develop sustained studio practice and encounter digital and emerging media, such as creative software, motion, 3D and interaction design. By Year 2, you'll engage with live briefs and real-world client projects. In your final year, you'll typically choose a specialist pathway, such as graphic design, illustration, fine art, fashion and textiles, or UX and digital, while building a professional portfolio and creating a major self-directed project for public exhibition at the degree show.
Who it's for
This course suits you if you are drawn to visual problem-solving, enjoy experimenting with form and communication, and want to understand design's role in culture and commerce. You should be curious about typography, imagery, layout and digital media, and comfortable balancing conceptual thinking with practical making. The extended four-year structure allows you space to explore, refine your approach, and develop a portfolio that reflects your individual perspective. You'll find it rewarding if you thrive on feedback, can articulate ideas both visually and verbally, and see design as a discipline that asks *why* as much as *how*.
Careers & job market
Across Art & Design courses nationally, 87% of graduates are in work or further study within 15 months. Of those working, 55% are in highly skilled roles or continued study. Graduate earnings (national figures across the sector) ranged from £22,000–£27,000 at 15 months after graduation, and £20,825–£29,400 after five years. These reflect individual variation in outcomes; they are not guaranteed figures for your specific qualification or career path.
University & format
The University of West London is based in Ealing and Brentford. This BA (Hons) Graphic Design is a 4-year full-time degree taught in English. The university is a recognised UK degree-awarding body; its degrees are nationally recognised. The course received a Silver rating for teaching quality in the Office for Students' TEF 2023.
Student satisfaction
How students on this course answered the National Student Survey, by theme.
Share of students responding positively.
Published threshold met NSS publication requires sufficient responses; small differences are not a rank. NSS mean of 7 published themes (Discover Uni snapshot 2026-06-21)
Applicant information
The next application dates for this course, followed by facts the provider publishes.
- 2027 entryCompleted applications can be submitted
Your application needs a reference before you can send it.
- 2026 entryFinal date for 2026 applications
Applications must reach UCAS by 18:00 UK time.
- 2026 entryLast day to add a Clearing choice
Check that this course still has a vacancy before adding it.
- 2027 entryEqual-consideration deadline
18:00 UK time for most undergraduate courses.
Show 5 later dates
- 2027 entryUCAS Extra opens
Applicants who used all five choices and hold no offer may be able to add another choice.
- 2027 entryLast day applications go directly to providers
Applications received after 18:00 UK time are entered into Clearing.
- 2027 entryClearing opens
Eligible applicants can see vacancies and release themselves into Clearing.
- 2027 entryFinal date for 2027 applications
Applications must reach UCAS by 18:00 UK time.
- 2027 entryLast day to add a Clearing choice
Check that this course still has a vacancy before adding it.
Entry & how to get in
Who gets in
What recently admitted students actually held, official admissions data, not a stated requirement.
UCAS tariff of entrants
Grades are the A-level equivalent of each points band. Tap a band to check your own chances below.
Qualifications held on entry
| Qualification | Share |
|---|---|
| A-levels or equivalent | 85% |
| another higher-education qualification | 5% |
| No / unknown prior qualifications | 5% |
Entry & your chances
An honest read from the official entry data, plus your personal match.
Accepted students came in with a broad spread of qualifications and UCAS points. If you're worried about grades, this course has historically taken a wide range, and contextual offers may apply.
Will you get in? Plot your grades
Pick your predicted A-levels and watch your UCAS points land on the real spread of students admitted to this course.
Each bar is the share of admitted students in that UCAS-points band (lower → higher). Grades show the A-level equivalent.
Based on the official admitted-student tariff distribution. Many universities make contextual (reduced-grade) offers, so a result below the range doesn’t rule you out.
How to apply
Undergraduate applications go through UCAS. Here’s what matters for this course, the right deadline, the grades to aim for, and the steps in order.
- 1Register on UCAS Hub
Create your UCAS application and add this course. One application covers up to five choices.
- 2Write your personal statement
A single statement covers all your choices, so keep it broad enough for similar courses while showing genuine interest in this subject.
- 3Submit by 13 January 2027, 18:00 UK time
UCAS equal-consideration deadline for most undergraduate courses. Source: UCAS 2027 dates.
- 4Reply to your offers
When decisions are in, pick a firm (first) choice and an insurance (back-up) choice with slightly lower grades.
- 5Results day & confirmation
On results day (mid-August) your place is confirmed if you meet the offer. Just missed? Talk to the university, or find a place through Clearing.
Fees & funding
What this course costs and how UK student finance covers it.
Tuition per year
Standard capped home fee at English providers (2026/27); Scotland, Wales & NI differ.
Check fees at West London →For students who normally live in England
2026/27 Student Finance England figures. Maintenance support is means-tested and this two-point view is not an entitlement calculator. The course total uses its published length and home fee where both are available; a missing full-time fee uses the clearly labelled England-cap scenario, while part-time fees and unknown lengths are never guessed. Use the official calculator. Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland use separate systems: SAAS, Student Finance Wales, and Student Finance NI.
Starting on or after 1 January 2027?
The Lifelong Learning Entitlement is a separate system. A new learner’s tuition entitlement is currently stated as £39,160 (about 480 credits at 2026/27 fee levels), subject to prior study and eligibility. Check the official LLE guide.
Paying for it
- Tuition Fee Loan: can cover eligible tuition up to the applicable limit and is paid straight to the provider.
- Maintenance Loan: up to £10,830/yr away from home outside London (England, 2026/27), means-tested on household income.
- Repayment: 9% of income above £25,000, nothing below it; written off after 40 years.
- Earn alongside: most students work part-time in term, part-time roles on the StudySmarter job board.
England figures shown; Scotland, Wales & NI run their own schemes, check gov.uk.
Scholarships & bursaries you could qualify for
That does not mean no funding exists. Check the university directory for current amounts, eligibility and application dates.
We only display a named award when its provider source identifies the award and who it is for.
Still deciding what to study?
StudyKit brings course choice, applications and funding together in one place, with a personal AI assistant. Find what really fits you and start your UCAS application step by step.
Careers & earnings
What Art & Design graduates actually earn, from real outcome data, 15 months, 3 years and 5 years after graduating.
Graduate earnings: this course
| When | Median | Typical range | Graduates |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15 months after | £28,000 | £25,000 – £29,000 | 15 |
| 3 years after | £20,000 | £13,000 – £24,000 | 60 |
| 5 years after | £24,000 | £19,000 – £29,000 | 55 |
Nominal earnings for graduates of this course/subject at this provider. Limited evidence. Published sample: 15; treat comparisons cautiously. Cohort 2021-23.
Graduate outcomes, 15 months on: this course
- 1Graduate roleFirst role after the degree · 0–2 yrs
- 2Specialist / PractitionerWorking in art & design · 2–5 yrs
- 3Senior / LeadLeading work and people · 5–10 yrs
- 4Head of / ExpertSenior leadership or deep expertise · 10+ yrs
How pay grows: this course vs Art & Design nationally
National figures for Art & Design graduates, HESA Graduate Outcomes (15 months) and the Longitudinal Education Outcomes (LEO) dataset (3 & 5 years). These are national, not university-specific; actual pay varies by employer, region, role and experience. Different cohorts, so the bars are not one group over time.
Work out your pay
Headline figures hide a lot. Calculate realistic take-home pay for this field by role, region and experience, then check your CV before you apply.
What happened to 100 students?
Choose an outcome to translate the published percentage into a simple 100-person view. Each dot represents one percentage point, not an individual tracked student.
were in work or further study
15 months after graduation
Source: Discover Uni, using Graduate Outcomes and continuation data. Cohorts: 2021-23. Limited evidence. Published sample: 15; treat comparisons cautiously. Cohort 2021-23. Each tab is a separate published measure; categories can overlap and should not be added together.
Value compared with similar courses
How this course’s 5-year median earnings compare with Art & Design courses at the same study level.
Compared with 1,698 courses with compatible official earnings data. This is a course-value comparison, not a quality ranking.
UK occupations graduates enter
Published graduate destinations, joined conservatively to UK SOC 2020, ONS pay and Skills England demand.
- Business and public service associate professionalsSOC 2020 35 · 20% of published destinations · ASHE median £38,760
- Web and Multimedia Design ProfessionalsSOC 2020 214 · 15% of published destinations · ASHE median £32,574
- Sales occupationsSOC 2020 71 · 10% of published destinations · ASHE median £15,975
- Elementary occupationsSOC 2020 9 · 10% of published destinations · ASHE median £19,087
- Media ProfessionalsSOC 2020 249 · 10% of published destinations · ASHE median £40,895
- Design occupationsSOC 2020 342 · 10% of published destinations · ASHE median £35,957
Discover Uni JOBLIST/JOBTYPE; ONS ASHE 2025 provisional, all employee jobs; Skills England Occupations in Demand 2025. SOC is shown only for an exact normalised label match; demand is shown only at exact four-digit SOC. Published sample: 60; response rate: 55%. Pay describes the occupation across workers, not a guaranteed graduate salary.
Job market & outlook
How Art & Design graduates fare in the labour market, and how AI is reshaping the work.
How AI is changing the work
AI doesn't replace the profession, it shifts it: routine tasks get automated, while judgement, working with people and using AI well become more valuable.
What AI takes off your plate
- Routine information gathering
- First-draft writing and summaries
- Standard analysis and admin
- Repetitive processing tasks
More human than ever
- Judgement and original thinking
- Working with and leading people
- Owning and sense-checking AI output
- Ethics and accountability
The strongest graduates pair subject depth with the ability to use AI tools critically.
Roles & employers
Where Art & Design graduates typically go, indicative destinations from graduate career data. Each role links to live openings on the StudySmarter job board.
Roles graduates go into
Where they work
- Design studios & agencies
- In-house brand teams
- Games & media companies
- Freelance & self-employed
Jobs after this course
Current roles from the StudySmarter job board that suit Art & Design graduates.
Fine Art TechnicianFirst Choice StaffPharmacy Technician – Brand New State-of-the-Art HospitalCompass AssociatesArtificial Intelligence Engineering ManagerMBN SolutionsArtificial Intelligence EngineerExperis UKDelivery Driver (Part Time 24 hours) - AndoverOcado LogisticsCompliance Business PartnerNashrock Insurance RecruitmentIs this course right for you?
The essentials UK applicants ask about: finance, outcomes, entry and quality.
Student finance
For comparison, the standard full-time England tuition cap is up to £9,790 per year in 2026/27; the actual fee varies by course and provider. If you normally live in England, eligible students can apply for a Tuition Fee Loan, plus a Maintenance Loan for living costs. Under Plan 5 you repay 9% of income above £25,000, nothing below that, and the balance is written off after 40 years.
Where graduates go
90% were in work or further study 15 months after graduating, with a median salary of £28,000. See the full breakdown in Careers & earnings above.
Your entry chances
Use the UCAS points calculator above to see how your predicted grades compare with admitted students, and whether a contextual offer could apply.
Official-data snapshot
Averaging the official measures published for it, this course scores 7.3 out of 10: NSS 74.7% · in work or study 90% · continued 55%.
Who studies here and in this subject?
Provider- and UK subject-level context.
The University of West London
Design, and creative and performing arts across the UK
HESA student record 2024/25. Counts are rounded.
Local crime-data context
A neutral snapshot around the published teaching location.
Around Ealing / Brentford
2,092 street-level reports returned within roughly one mile across 2026-04 to 2026-06.
Police.uk street-level API. Approximate locations, not confined to campus. England, Wales and Northern Ireland; not Scotland.
Is Art & Design right for you?
Tick what applies to you and see how good a fit it is.
International students
What applying to West London from outside the UK involves: fees, English, visa, funding and living costs.
Tuition fees
International tuition is set per course by West London; international fees are typically £12,000–£30,000/year for classroom subjects and higher for lab/clinical ones. You’re not eligible for UK Tuition Fee or Maintenance Loans, so plan for fees plus living costs upfront.
English language
Most UK undergraduate courses ask for around IELTS 6.0–6.5 (no band below 5.5–6.0), or an accepted equivalent. If you’re just short, most universities run a pre-sessional English course that counts towards the requirement.
Student visa
You’ll usually need a Student visa (Student Route). After you accept an offer the university issues a CAS; you then show funds for fees plus about £1,023–£1,334/month living costs and pay the Immigration Health Surcharge for NHS access.
Scholarships & funding
Many universities offer international/global scholarships (often £2,000–£6,000/yr), check West London’s funding pages.
Living costs
Budget roughly £1,100–£1,400/month outside London and £1,400–£1,800/month in London for rent, food and travel; the figure also matters for your visa.
Working while you study
A Student visa usually allows up to 20 hours/week in term time and full-time in holidays, useful alongside study, though not something to rely on for fees.
Visa rules and fees change. Always confirm the current requirements with West London and gov.uk before you apply.
Related courses
More at West London
Common questions
How competitive is entry?
What are the entry requirements?
What do graduates go on to do?
What will it cost me?
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