Communication Design

The BA (Hons) Communication Design programme provides a dynamic, inclusive, and supportive learning environment that fully equips graduates as 21st-century designers, whether in professional studio practice or further academic study.

The curriculum consists of an exciting range of project-based practical and theoretical courses, which vary in length within and across the two academic semesters each year. During stages 1 and 2, particular emphasis is placed upon building a dynamic and inclusive community of learners, along with providing a solid, broad-based platform in research, experimentation and critical thinking ahead of choosing a specialist pathway for Stages 3 and 4. Stage 2 also contains two Bridging Projects that allow students to experience briefs and teaching from within the pathways, which include Photography (including Lens-based practice), Graphic Design and Illustration. In addition to the Bridging Projects, assessment feedback and the regular input of visiting speakers and lecturers from a broad range of Industry practices helps students to build an informed and nuanced understanding of the professional landscape they may enter following graduation.

The programme supports students in developing knowledge and understanding to undertake sophisticated research and visual problem-solving. Students acquire appropriate skills to contribute to the broader international contexts and territories of communication design and the ability to respond sensitively to complex ethical, societal, and environmental challenges.

The programme promotes a culture that recognises collaboration, interdisciplinary peer learning, and independence as essential elements in the effective practice of Communication Design. The research, scholarly activity, and professional practice of staff directly inform the contemporary relevance of the programme.

Within the programme, Studio courses provide a series of incremental project-based experiences with opportunities to reflect upon learning as it develops towards building a critical practice. Design History and Theory courses explore critical and contextual perspectives, and courses shared with other programmes, including Co-Lab and Design Domain, foster expanded perspectives by connecting broader domains of learning and knowledge. Opportunities for student international exchanges, collaborative learning, industry projects, and careers and enterprise experiences help support how students develop graduate skills and attributes.

Founded in 1845, the Glasgow School of Art is one of the few remaining independent art schools in the UK. With a proven history of producing some of the world’s most influential and successful artists, designers and architects, the GSA’s studio-based specialist, practice-led education draws talented individuals with a shared passion and concern for visual culture from all over the world. The GSA has produced nine Turner Prize winners and world-renowned alumni, including Jasleen Kaur, Jenny Saville, Douglas Gordon and Alberta Whittle.

In 2026, the GSA was ranked 3rd in the UK and 8th in the world in the QS World University Subject Rankings.