This module provides you with the opportunity for an in-depth exploration of a design topic of personal interest. You will select a research question and conduct a thorough investigation using a range of research methods to uncover key insights and present potential opportunities. By the end of the module, you will have developed a research-driven approach to addressing a design challenge that enables new perspectives and innovative ways of thinking. This may or may not relate to your Major Project.

The focus of this module is to build your workspace readiness through the development and production of a visually exciting Curated Portfolio-to-Go and complementary self promotion materials. Work produced for this module can be used to target ‘identified’ areas of prospective career opportunity and enhance your readiness to enter the workplace.

Environment and Audience in Graphic Design.

This module allows for the research and production of a design outcome/s informed by users/audience, through analysis of specific stakeholder needs, under the influence of innovation, culture and society.

Identifying this module:

Complexity of Context: there is a deeper expectation of critical engagement and innovative thinking. Students are expected to move beyond applying established techniques and begin creating new approaches that challenge industry norms and encourage reflective practice.

Critical Thinking and self-directed professional development: emphasis this with a focus on self-directed professional development. Students expected to critically evaluate their own work, identify areas for improvement, and demonstrate maturity in their professional judgments. This includes reflection on cultural, ethical, and social contexts of design.

Exploration in Graphic Design.

This module allows you to create a major project(s).

You will be asked to devise a brief of your own making. That brief should allow you to create a design solution(s) to a problem(s).

A problem can be defined from any influence, direction, interest, spark, catalyst, thought moment, experience, issue, concern, desire, influence, passion or question. It should allow you to explore new potential within your practice as a Graphic Designer and Creative Thinker. 

Specialist project aimed at career goals.

This module offers an opportunity to reflect on design approaches while focusing on future career aspirations. Through your own choice of creative and professional briefs, it helps develop responses and working methods that refine your design practice.

The module involves self-directed work, allowing you to independently explore, create, and demonstrate your skills as a practitioner and a creative, managing and executing your projects from start to finish.

Identifying the module: 

Professional Autonomy: The emphasis is on leading projects and working autonomously in professional settings. Students should demonstrate an understanding of industry standards while pushing their creative boundaries. Engagement with live briefs and client-based projects prepares students for the transition to the professional world.

Ownership and Independence: Students will take complete ownership of their projects, managing every aspect independently, from brief formulation; to final presentation. The focus is on becoming a self-sufficient designer, capable of handling complex tasks without extensive tutor support.

Career readiness: Focuses on advanced communication, industry awareness. Students engage with current trends, practices, and ethical considerations in the design field.