Graphic Design MA
Explore the ever-changing landscape of graphic design to build critical understanding, design thinking processes, expand practical experience and learn insightful design solutions
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Viewing course details for 2025 year of entry
- Code
- PGW207
- Attendance
- Full-time, Part-time
- Start
- September 2025
- Fees
- £10,700 (UK) £17,100 (INT)
- Duration
- 1 year full-time, 2 years part-time
- Course Leader
- Amanda Sleet
- Study mode
- On campus
- Location
- Hendon campus
- School / Department
- School of Design
Why you should study MA Graphic Design at Middlesex University?
The course offers areas of specialism in typography, branding, editorial and book design, social enterprise and digital interactive experiences.
We take a problem-solving approach to graphic design to explore contemporary practice through design thinking, insight and co-design processes, prototyping ideas, and building expert collaborative networks with external partners.
We are a diverse collective, working across project areas of typography & information, brand identity & campaigns, new technology & digital experiences, design writing & insight analysis, sustainability & environmental issues, structural packaging and book design.
You can study this course in person, by distance learning or through a flexible mix of both modes.
Based in the Grove, our £80 million Arts and Creative Industries building, and taught by some of the UK's leading practitioners from a range of disciplines, our course features world-class facilities and specialist workshops fitted with both new and traditional equipment, and these will be part of our blended learning approach available where possible. With opportunities to build industry contacts and exhibit your work externally, you'll also gain the employability skills, exposure and experiences you need to navigate a successful career path in today's competitive creative industries.
Course highlights:
- Fully equipped 3D workshops, laser cutting and 3D printing, printmaking and letterpress, digital printing, reprographics, bookbinding and fully equipped photography, animation and film studios, with expert technical support
- Each self-initiated project is tailored to each individual’s specialism and ambitions in industry, research, design writing, PhD or education, with the aim to establish expert links and specialist networks for each project
- You will exhibit your work externally, creating networking opportunities to build industry contacts in a professional environment
- You'll receive access to the Adobe Creative Suite for every module.
About your course
What you will study on the MA Graphic Design?
The majority of the programme will be centred upon developing and fully completing a substantial body of graphic design work towards an external public exhibition. This will be supported by research reports and regular presentations on the progress of the project. You will also address postgraduate research and critical debates in graphic design, working with students and staff from across the art and design postgraduate community.
What you will gain?
You will gain the skills and experience to produce professional graphic design work in any industry. The course will also give you the skills to independently plan, design, implement and evaluate graphic design projects from start to finish.
Modules
This module challenges you to define your advanced design aspirations, explore design perspectives, use strategic design processes and visually research and expand your interests, in line with your professional goals.
Focus will be placed on visual and other research findings to identify new ways of shaping conceptual thinking in order to create work within a range of ‘mini topics’ through physical engagement, evaluation and experience-based design. The aim is to initiate processes that interrogate the relationship between subject, context, audience and user, through modes of visual communication that constitute and also align with Graphic Design. The focus of study will be centred around multi-cultural viewpoints, traditional cultures in design, social and environmental impact, and the effect on place and region, to reflect the global perspective of the international student cohort.
This module provides you with the knowledge and skills required to undertake independent academic research in Visual Arts and Design at postgraduate level. By introducing you to contemporary and emergent research resources in the discipline; essential frameworks and tools for navigating research ethics in creative fields, linking to Middlesex University’s Research Ethics guidelines; and consolidating advanced knowledge of referencing conventions for academic integrity, you will be able to propose and structure a relevant research proposal for independent enquiry and investigation at Master’s level.
This module helps develop your knowledge and skills in the research methods and materials pertinent to the contexts of your creative practice. Designed as a set of specialist elective seminar courses, led by a variety of researchers within the university, this module allows you to experiment and learn first-hand about the methods and materials used by the researcher and to gain and apply insights into knowledge at the cutting edge of Visual Arts and Design, and relate this to your own emerging research interests.
You will be encouraged to evolve a distinct design language and negotiate a design specialism central to your professional practice, to identify appropriate design approaches. You will build a focused line of enquiry, centred around current debates and topical issues such as, community, health, environment and sustainable issues within the context of professional and creative practice, to consider specific audiences and design placement. You are encouraged to establish specialist networks, collaborate with cross faculty groups and build outside working partnerships, to foster interdisciplinary practice and specialist knowledge, to further enhance practice, to consider career pathways, employment opportunities and academic progression.
This module aims to deepen the student’s knowledge and skills in the critical review of influential research pertinent to the contexts of their creative practice. Designed as a set of specialist elective seminar courses led by a variety of researchers within the university, this module allows the student to experiment with new areas of knowledge and deepen their critical understanding of the wider contexts for their creative practice.
This module aims to develop you as a confident researcher and communicator and to provide a showcase opportunity for the student to engage in peer review and public debate as a means for professional development and consolidation of the research scope, methods, context, and practice of your Master’s project.
The final module of the programme enables you to reflect on your subject knowledge, critical evaluation, contextual awareness, and design discoveries made in the previous modules to present a rigorously investigated and detailed final design collection. The final outcomes will identify and utilise research and design methodologies to promote interrelationships between design theory, subject specialism, and practice in the realisation of a final collection and the process of making it public. Each sequential module to date has provided a platform to visually investigate, contextualise subject references, critically reflect, propose new design strategies, and consider appropriate design responses that question contemporary graphic design practice. Emphasis is placed throughout the study on the importance of social, environmental, cultural and community contexts, audience engagement and positioning of the work to create maximum impact where communication is central. A final design collection will conclude the year and a design project research publication represents the journey taken, to identify design methodologies, collaborative partnerships, and specialist design skills. The final work will be presented and made public to reflect the professional context of the project.
To find out more about this course, please download the course specification for the Graphic Design MA (PDF)
Optional modules: If we have insufficient numbers of students interested in an optional module, or there are staffing changes which affect the teaching, it may not be offered. If an optional module will not run, we will advise you after the module selection period when numbers are confirmed, or at the earliest time that the programme team make the decision not to run the module, and help you choose an alternative module.
Register your interest
Sign up now to receive more information about studying at Middlesex University London.
Teaching
You'll be taught by an experienced teaching team with a wide range of expertise and professional experience.
We are regularly reviewing and updating our programmes to ensure you have the best learning experience. We are taking what we have learnt during the pandemic and enhancing our teaching methods with new and innovative ways of learning.
We aim to model a wide range of teaching strategies and approaches on the course which you can adapt to your own setting.
How is the MA Graphic Design taught?
This course is flexibly designed to put you at the centre of your learning by using a range of teaching and assessment approaches that take into account your individual interests, abilities and ambitions as a graphic designer.
The MA Graphic Design can be studied in person, by distance learning or through a flexible mix of both modes. If you intend to study through the distance learning mode this should be indicated on your application form. This means you can also tailor not just what you learn but also how you learn. Please complete the same application form and we’ll contact you in September to understand your preference.
Note: for international students, if you intend to apply for a student route visa to study this course, you will only be able to undertake the in person on campus option
Each module is designed to build on from each other or feed into each other, enabling you to build on specific interests, identify areas of graphic design you wish to work within, and develop collaborative partnerships, to build opportunities to embed work within an industry setting or network for future industry opportunities.
As part of your learning, you'll be required to actively participate in activities and engage with your fellow students, both individually and collaboratively, working and learning as part of a small group and as an individual designer.
The course promotes curiosity and encourages you to actively take risks to discover new opportunities, to tackle ambitious, innovative and contemporary design themes that meet the needs of tomorrow's designers to take a lead role in the creative industries.
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Learning structure: typical hourly breakdown in 2023/24 |
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1. |
Live learning |
Contact time per week, per level: |
11 hours |
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2. |
Self-paced learning time |
Average hours per week, per level: |
Independent study: minimum 9 hours Critical debates/advanced research: 18 hours |
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3. |
On demand resources |
Average hours per week, per level: |
As and when necessary |
Outside of these hours, you’ll be expected to do independent study where you read, listen and reflect on other learning activities. This can include preparation for future classes. In a year, you’ll typically be expected to commit 1200 hours to your course across all styles of learning. If you are taking a placement, you might have some additional hours.
Definitions of terms
- Live in-person on campus learning – This will focus on active and experiential sessions that are both:
- Led by your tutors including seminars, lab sessions and demonstrations We’ll schedule all of this for you
- Student-led by you and other students, like small group work and presentations.
- Live online learning – This will include lectures, tutorials and supervision sessions led by your tutor and timetabled by us. It also includes student-led group work that takes place online
- Tutor set learning activities – This covers activities which will be set for you by your tutor, but which you will undertake in your own time. Examples of this include watching online materials, participating in an online discussion forum, completing a virtual laboratory or reading specific texts. You may be doing this by yourself of with your course mates depending on your course and assignments. Outside of these hours, you’ll also be expected to do further independent study where you’ll be expected to learn, prepare, revise and reflect in your own time.
You will be based at our north London campus, online or both.
Your skills, knowledge and understanding will be entirely assessed by coursework including practical projects, oral presentations and supporting written work. There are no exams. Your major project will require you to develop a design project of your choice.
You have a strong support network available to you to make sure you develop all the necessary academic skills you need to do well on your course.
Our support services will be delivered online and on campus and you have access to a range of different resources so you can get the help you need, whether you’re studying at home or have the opportunity to come to campus.
You have access to one to one and group sessions for personal learning and academic support from our library and IT teams, and our network of learning experts. Our teams will also be here to offer financial advice, and personal wellbeing, mental health and disability support.
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North London campus
Our north London campus is 23 minutes away by underground train, travelling from London Kings Cross.
Learn moreFacilities and support
Our Sheppard Library provides a wide range of resources and support to help you to succeed in your studies.
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Over 1,000 study spaces including rooms for group study and over 500 computers available.
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We have one of London's biggest and best university campuses with everything you need in one place.
Our facilitiesStudent support
We offer lots of support to help you while you're studying including financial advice, wellbeing, mental health, and disability support.
Additional needs
We'll support you if you have additional needs such as sensory impairment or dyslexia. And if you want to find out whether Middlesex is the right place for you before you apply, get in touch with our Disability and Dyslexia team.
Wellness
Our specialist teams will support your mental health. We have free individual counselling sessions, workshops, support groups and useful guides.
Work while you study
Our Middlesex Unitemps branch will help you find work that fits around uni and your other commitments. We have hundreds of student jobs on campus that pay the London Living Wage and above. Visit the Middlesex Unitemps page.
Careers
How can the MA Graphic Design support your career?
This course will prepare you for a diverse range of design careers within the creative industries such as graphic designer, picture editor, packaging designer, web designer, freelance designer and illustrator, brand designer, retail designer, art director and similar managerial positions. This course is also well suited to those looking to pursue careers in further research and teaching about Graphic Design. With strong links to art and design employers across the UK and internationally we’ll assist you in finding and securing professional opportunities while you study with us and after your graduate.
Entry requirements
Qualifications
We normally require a good honours degree 2:2 or above, or equivalent qualification, in an appropriate subject.
We also consider candidates with other relevant qualifications.
Those without formal qualifications need to demonstrate three years' relevant work experience and the ability to study at postgraduate level.
Portfolio
You will need to submit your portfolio as part of your application. You can find more information under the Portfolio tab.
If you have relevant qualifications or work experience, academic credit may be awarded towards your programme of study.
Qualifications
We accept the equivalent of the below qualifications from a recognised overseas qualification. Find out more about the qualifications we accept from your country support page.
- A 2:2 degree or above, or equivalent qualification, in an appropriate subject
- We also consider candidates with other relevant qualifications
- Those without formal qualifications need to demonstrate three years' relevant work experience and the ability to study at postgraduate level.
If you are unsure about the suitability of your qualifications or would like help with your application, please contact your nearest regional office for support.
Portfolio
You will need to submit your portfolio as part of your application. You can find more information under the Portfolio tab.
English language
You will need to meet our English language requirements. And, don’t worry If you don't meet our minimum English language requirements, as we offer a Pre-sessional English course.
Visas
To study with us in the UK, you might need a Student visa. Please check to see if this applies to you.
Portfolio review
The application is the first step in our selection process. You will need to submit a portfolio of your art and design work. We’ve put together some simple notes to help you prepare:
Be selective about the work you show while continuing to show a range of skills and ability
Show mainly the most recent work that you are most proud of.
Consider how to present your work and the impression the overall look of your portfolio will have on the viewer.
Sketchbooks are extremely important. They should be a 'diary' of your thinking and include observational and speculative drawings/sketches communicating a visual sensitivity.
We also look for evidence of how you develop and work through your ideas. Include photographs and collected images and importantly your reaction to them, but avoid letting your sketchbooks be merely scrapbooks.
After you have applied, we will send you a link for you to submit your portfolio online via the applicant portal.
Applications for postgraduate study should be made directly to the university.
Fees and funding
The fees below are for the 2025/26 academic year.
UK students1
Full-time students: £10,700
Part-time students: £70 per credit
Part-time students: £35 per dissertation credit
International students2
Full-time students: £17,100
Part-time students: £114 per credit
Part-time students: £57 per dissertation credit
Course costs
The following course-related costs are included in the fees:
- All printing and copying required for your study
- Self-service laptops available for loan for a maximum of 24 hours
The following course-related costs are not included in the fees, and you may be required to purchase these to complete the course. The costs are approximate and may change due to changes in pricing at the retailer;
- Optional visits.
- Privately printed books.
- Excessive printing of dummy books etc.
- 3d materials for laser cutting or 3d printing
- Materials for fabric printing.
Financial support
We offer lots of support to help you with fees and living costs. Check out our guide to student life on a budget and find out more about postgraduate funding.
Postgraduate scholarships
You may be eligible for one of our scholarships including:
- The Alumni Postgraduate Award – as an undergraduate student continuing postgraduate studies at Middlesex, you can apply for 20% off your fees
- The Commonwealth Scholarship – full course fees, airfares and a living allowance
- The Chevening Scholarship – full course fees
- The European Academic Awards – £1000 to £7000 for students showing academic excellence
- Regional or International Merit Award –up to £2,000 towards course fees.
For international students, we also have a limited number of other awards specific to certain regions, and work in partnership with funding providers in your country to help support you financially with your study.
Find out more about our postgraduate scholarships.
Help from your employer
Your employer can contribute towards the cost of your postgraduate study as part of their staff development programme.
Fees disclaimers
1. UK fees: The university reserves the right to increase undergraduate tuition fees in line with changes to legislation, regulation and any government guidance or decisions. The tuition fees for part-time UK study are subject to annual review and we reserve the right to increase the fees each academic year by no more than the level of inflation.
2. International fees: Tuition fees are subject to annual review and we reserve the right to increase the fees each academic year by no more than the level of inflation.
Any annual increase in tuition fees as provided for above will be notified to students at the earliest opportunity in advance of the academic year to which any applicable inflationary rise may apply.
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Get answers from our Unibuddy student ambassadors
We’ll carefully manage any future changes to courses, or the support and other services available to you, if these are necessary because of things like changes to government health and safety advice, or any changes to the law.
Any decisions will be taken in line with both external advice and the University’s Regulations which include information on this.
Our priority will always be to maintain academic standards and quality so that your learning outcomes are not affected by any adjustments that we may have to make.
At all times we’ll aim to keep you well informed of how we may need to respond to changing circumstances, and about support that we’ll provide to you.