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University of Southampton: Communication Design
| Institution | University of Southampton |
|---|---|
| Department | Winchester School of Art |
| Web | http://www.southampton.ac.uk |
| AdmissionsPGT.AH@soton.ac.uk | |
| Telephone | 023 8059 4732 |
| Study type | Taught |
MA
Summary
About this course The MA Communication Design is a practice-based course with a unique focus on digital media practice and theory, setting it apart from traditional communication design programs. This master’s is for recent graduates or professionals seeking to expand their creative skills into the areas of hybrid publishing, user experience (UX) design, and design research. You will be encouraged to explore systems for the creation and communication of text and image, redefining your own practice through experimental publishing and interaction design. The curriculum focuses on developing effective concepts and prototypes for current and emergent platforms, grounded in graphic design and user experience principles.
We are ranked 8th in the UK for research quality (Complete University Guide 2026).
Your future career This course prepares you for an exciting career in a range of design roles within the digital and creative industries. You will gain a critical understanding of contemporary media, along with knowledge of the latest methodologies and tools used in the field. Graduates will be equipped to work as: • User Experience (UX) Designers • Interaction Designers • Digital Product Designers • Design Researchers • Visual Artists and Graphic Designers in experimental media and publishing.
As a graduate from a top 20 UK university for employability*, you'll be well-prepared for your next step.
Key features of this course At Winchester School of Art (WSA) you'll: • Develop effective concepts and prototypes for current and emergent platforms in modern, well-equipped studios. • Build your own tools through creative coding and modular design experimentation. • Have access to excellent facilities, including the Interaction and Prototyping Laboratory, 3D printing, laser cutting, and traditional design and print equipment. • Learn from academics with industry experience in graphic design, interaction design, and design for experimental media. • Create a professional portfolio of high-quality design work.
Further information The core curriculum is primarily studio-based, delivered through themed briefs, workshops, and tutorials. The course culminates in a practice-led research project, providing an opportunity to engage with key debates shaping the communication design field. Your final project involves creating a portfolio with a supporting report that reflects the professional or academic context you wish to enter after graduation. You'll also learn essential transferable skills, attend guest lectures and studio visits, and be allocated a personal academic tutor for support.
*Complete University Guide Graduate Prospects Ranking 2026.
| Level | RQF Level 7 |
|---|---|
| Entry requirements | You’ll need a 2:2 degree in a art, design, communication, or media subject. You will also have to submit a portfolio of your work with your application demonstrating your engagement with contemporary communication design. |
| Location | Winchester School of Art Park Avenue Winchester SO23 8DL |
Summary
"
MA Communication Design is the study of information and interface design. This course is research driven and combines creativity and critical analysis of contemporary media, with knowledge of the latest methodologies and tools. A focus on digital media practice and theory sets this course apart from traditional communication design courses, preparing you for an exciting career in a range of design roles. We’ll encourage you to explore systems for the making and communication of text and image while you redefine your own practice through various media formats of experimental publishing and interaction design.
This course is for recent graduates or those with professional experience who wish to extend their creative skills and design knowledge into hybrid publishing, user experience design, and design research. Your practice will be supported by excellent facilities including an Interaction and Prototyping Laboratory (iLab), 3D printing and laser cutting as well as traditional design and print equipment. You’ll learn from academics with industry experience in graphic design, interaction design and design for broadcast media. The course culminates in a practice-led research project, which is an exciting opportunity for you to engage with key debates shaping the design industry and scholarship.
Explore our specialist arts campus:
One of only a few specialist art schools in the Russell Group, you’ll be inspired to create in our purpose built studios and workshops and learn with expert creative practitioners at Winchester School of Art (WSA), part our University of Southampton community and just one hour from London. You’ll have industry exposure through guest lectures, work on live project briefs, and explore work internships where graduates have gone on to set up their own design labels or work at prestigious brands across the globe including Selfridges, Saatchi & Saatchi, Alexander McQueen, Burberry, ASOS, Nike and Apple. "
| Level | RQF Level 7 |
|---|---|
| Entry requirements | "You’ll need a minimum of a 2:2 degree in a design, communication, or media subject. Or an equivalent standard in other qualifications approved by the university. You will also have to submit a portfolio of your work which should include: evidence of exploring how design responds to developments in media and digital culture, |
| Location | Winchester School of Art Park Avenue Winchester SO23 8DL |
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