Graphic Design (with Foundation Year)

Study in a studio environment with professional-standard facilities and the focus on the real-world skills you need to succeed in your career.

Why study graphic design?
Graphic design makes a powerful contribution to the cultural and economic life of contemporary society.

It exists in the public domain, acts as an indicator of current cultural thinking and is a catalyst for social, cultural and political change.

The role of the graphic designer in society and the professional world is multifaceted; designer as curator, author, craftsperson, editor, educator, collaborator and agitator.

Studying graphic design is excellent preparation for a creative career in the UK and abroad.

Why UWE Bristol?
BA(Hons) Graphic Design is based at the Arnolfini, at the heart of Bristol's creative and cultural community. You'll learn from practising graphic designers in a professional studio environment.

Past students have won awards in prestigious national competitions such as the Royal Society of Arts (RSA) Student Design Awards and the International Society of Typographic Designers (ISTD).

In recent years, graduates' work has been exhibited at D&AD New Blood, London, with several being identified as 'Ones to Watch' and commendations received for several collaborative projects.

Our students are also regularly shortlisted for the Best British Book Design and Production Awards.

Our City Campus is a powerhouse of inspiration and collaboration, and home to our many CityCreatives. It spans Bristol and is made up of Bower Ashton and renowned contemporary arts centres Spike Island, Arnolfini and Watershed.

Our strong industry links with the thriving city of Bristol ensure ongoing input from professional designers.

You won't be working on hypothetical designs. Projects are socially and culturally relevant, whether undertaken inside or outside the university.

Go on work placements and internships, or volunteer, to gain valuable workplace experience.

Attend talks from studios like OK/RM, Pentagram, Moving Brands, Mother London, Muf, APFEL and Book Works.

Showcase your work to talent scouts and potential employers at the final year degree show.

Focus on the avenues that most interest you, and graduate with an impressive portfolio of work, ready to make your mark in the industry.

International students
This course will give you the skills and confidence to find out what type of artist you are. Not only will you develop your creative portfolio while studying the foundation year, but you will have the opportunity to reach and improve your English language and communication skills through a unique module designed for those in the creative arts.

If you're applying to UWE Bristol from another country or region, visit the international study pages for tailored application information.

Where can it take me?
This course prepares you for an idea-driven, sustainable and flexible freelance practice, or studio career in graphic design.

Many of our graduates find work with highly respected design studios in the UK and worldwide.

Others go on to further study, such as a master's in graphic design or graphic arts, or pursue a career in research or education.

University is a time to try new things, meet new people and make new goals. With Clearing at UWE Bristol, you'll get the chance to take control of your future and choose an exciting path for yourself.

UWE Bristol offers over 100 professionally accredited courses, including Architecture, Accounting and Finance, Games Technology, Mathematics and Sport Rehabilitation. Whether you're studying an arts, business, healthcare or science degree, all undergraduate courses are designed with employability in mind. You can work a year in industry, study across the world, and get one-to-one careers advice on campus. It's no wonder an outstanding 89% of students find work or further study just 15 months after graduating (Graduate Outcomes Survey 2022/23, published 2025).

You'll also be studying in a top 10 most popular city in the UK (YouGov, 2026). With famous festivals, renowned galleries, lively nightclubs and independent restaurants right on your doorstep, you're guaranteed an incredible student experience in Bristol. With famous festivals, renowned galleries, lively nightclubs and independent restaurants right on your doorstep, you're guaranteed an incredible student experience in Bristol.

Your Future, Right Here. Study at UWE Bristol. Choose to do Clearing right.