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University of Gloucestershire
Postgraduate taught

Graphic Design

MDes

Course options

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Study type
Full Time
Course length
1 Years
Campus
Park, Cheltenham
UCAS Code
N/A

Course overview

Explore conceptual and theoretical issues in a stimulating and creative environment. This MDes Graphic Design course gives you the opportunity to extend your portfolio and move your creative work into new spaces and career directions.

You’ll be challenged to build upon your communication and design research skills and apply these to successful problem-solving at a master’s level. You’ll explore contemporary issues in graphic design whilst gaining insights into global trends and dialogues in design by crossing genres and disciplines.

We have recently developed a partnership with Cheltenham Borough Council’s climate emergency team, students work on live briefs that support the research and communication of the projects. Past students work, including animated film ‘Whale Carbon’, have been showcased at Planted’s Green Grads exhibition during the 2021 London Design Festival.

If you’re an undergraduate wanting to progress your studies or a professional designer looking to enhance your career outside of the daily routine our approach to spatial, visual, kinaesthetic and active learning will help develop your approach to design and the world around you.

Study style

You’ll learn through practical experience, with staff and industry professionals, work with design thinking theory in supporting lectures and workshops. Explore design management scenarios, global trends, ethics, gender and sustainability. You’ll be working through a range of project and research-based assignments with a professional focus on your future career aspirations.

Study style

Students usually support themselves through the postgraduate loan, private savings, family support or sponsorship from an employer. For advice and guidance on your funding options, contact the Money Advice team at [email protected] or call 01242 714535.

UoG graduates receive up to 20% off postgraduate tuition fees. Terms apply.

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Entry requirements

    • You should hold at least a  2.2 Bachelors degree with honours.

    • You will be required to attend an interview. Please refer to our interview guide for further information.

    • A portfolio of work is essential

    • EU and international students need IELTS 6.0 overall (no less than 5.5 in writing and in any other band) or equivalent.

Course modules

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Fees and costs

You're viewing fees for the course option. Choose a different course option to see corresponding course fees.

See the further details of fees and potential extra costs when studying a course at the University of Gloucestershire.

Students usually support themselves through a postgraduate loan, private savings, family support or sponsorship from an employer. For advice and guidance on your funding options, contact the Money Advice team at [email protected] or call 01242 714535.

UoG graduates receive 15% off postgraduate tuition fees. Terms apply.

Start date Location Course code Fee (UK)
Total fee
Fee (international)
Total fee
Sep 2025 Park, Cheltenham TBC TBC
Sep 2026 Park, Cheltenham TBC TBC

Ready to apply?

UoG Career promise

At UoG we create a climate for bravery and growth. We instil confidence in all our students, so you can graduate career-ready and meet your ambitions.

96% of our graduates are in work or further study*, but if you’re not in a job 6 months after graduating we’ll guarantee you 6 months of free support, followed by the offer of a paid internship to kickstart your career – plus we’ll commit to lifetime career coaching. Eligibility conditions apply.

*Graduate Outcomes Survey published 2024 and based on 2021/22 leavers

Discover our promises

Careers

The MDes Graphic Design at UoG opens a pathway to a variety of dynamic career opportunities. Graduates are well-equipped to lead as Creative Directors, strategise as design consultants, or innovate in academia as educators and PhD researchers. This course also paves the way for roles that merge creativity with strategic thinking, such as creative strategists and design strategists. Whether you aspire to influence the creative industry or contribute to research and education, this programme is designed to elevate your professional journey in the expansive world of graphic design. 

National and international links

Make use of our close links to local, national and international design agencies and academic institutions, including companies such as Superdry, Asha, Third Floor, SLG, Cult LDN, Bulletproof & Goodby, and Silverstein & Partners.

A student on Graphic Design drawing on paper

You'll be taught by the experts

Be taught by staff with an excellent reputation in the design industry and in education, and learn from industry guest speakers.

Students looking at their printed advertisement design

Shared course structure

By offering the chance to study for an MA or MDes within the same course structure, we give our students the flexibility to follow either an academic or professional route. However, they still work together as part of a single, shared creative community.

Students on Graphic Design course at Hardwick

Push your possible with a master’s degree

Increase your pay potential, specialise in a subject you love, or pursue your passion and switch careers.

UoG alumni can benefit from a postgraduate scholarship discount of 15% off tuition fees.

Discover the benefits of studying a master’s degree.

Female student in lab coat looking at lab sample.

Placements

As part of your course you can gain valuable experience on an optional placement year.

  • Duration – 12 months, full-time (minimum 35 hours a week)
  • Location – popular destinations include the UK, USA, China and Europe
  • Visa – you may need a visa if you’re on placement abroad
  • Finance – your tuition fee is reduced for your placement year – and you can still apply for a maintenance loan and get money advice
  • Placement support – we’ll help you find a great placement and get the most out of the experience

"I love that the course involves collaborative projects where you work with fellow students"

“I studied Fine Art for my first degree at the University of Gloucestershire and I chose to continue my education here because I was familiar with the campus and the University’s teaching practices. Another great thing about this course is that you can tailor it to suit your needs career-wise. It has been designed in such a way that each student can use the individual modules to create portfolio and research based work that is targeted towards their intended career path.”

Bethany Harper, Graphic Design student

Young woman with brown hair in a black jumper stood next to an advertising poster

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