UNIVERSITY OF THE ARTS LONDON · UNITED KINGDOM
MA Design for Art Direction
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
15 mo
Duration
6.5
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- 15 monthsCourse Duration
- Full-timeMode of Study
- September 2026Start Date
- London College of CommunicationCollege
- 5 UnitsCourse Structure
- 180 CreditsTotal Credits
This MA in Design for Art Direction at London College of Communication provides visual communicators and designers with the practical, critical, and conceptual skills needed to excel in art direction. The course takes a holistic and multidisciplinary approach, encouraging you to explore diverse sectors and create innovative campaigns for commercial, cultural, and non-profit clients. You'll investigate the role of art directors, developing your own ideas through a mix of collaborative and individual projects, and examining how creative studios shape public perception through various communication forms like activism and intervention.
Curriculum
The MA is structured into five units totalling 180 credits. The course integrates UAL's Principles for Climate, Racial, and Social Justice, focusing on social and environmental sustainability. Learning involves a blend of practice-based workshops, seminars, lectures, tutorials, online learning, self-directed study, and industry engagement.
- Year 1
- Critical Perspectives and Research Methods
- Defining Design for Art Direction
- Specialist Practices for Art Direction
- Collaborative Unit
- Final Major Project
Careers
This course prepares you for a range of roles within the creative industries, equipping you with the skills to adapt to diverse professional environments and contribute to impactful visual communication.
- Art Director
- Visual Communicator
- Campaign Designer
- Creative Studio Practitioner
Frequently asked questions
- What are the academic entry requirements for the MA Design for Art Direction?
- Applicants should have a UK first-class or second-class honours degree (2:2 or above) or an equivalent qualification in a relevant subject. International applicants' specific country qualifications will be considered.
- What are the English language proficiency requirements?
- Applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency with an IELTS overall score of 6.5, with a minimum of 5.5 in each component.
- How long is the MA Design for Art Direction program?
- The MA Design for Art Direction is a full-time program with a duration of 15 months.
- When do applications open for international students for the 2027/28 entry?
- International applications for the 2027/28 entry will open in autumn 2026.
- What career paths can I pursue after completing this MA?
- Graduates are prepared for various roles in the creative industries, including Art Director, Visual Communicator, Campaign Designer, and Creative Studio Practitioner.
Entry requirements
Undergraduate DegreeA UK first-class or second-class honours degree (2:2 or above) or equivalent in a relevant subject.
IELTSOverall 6.5 with a minimum of 5.5 in each component.
Applications are assessed based on the strength of your previous academic record, your personal statement, your portfolio, and potentially an interview. For international students, specific country qualifications are considered. English language proficiency is required.
Fees
Tuition (international)Not available for 2026/27 entry for international students.
Tuition (home)Not specified.
LivingNot specified.
The university states that international applications for 2027/28 entry will open in autumn 2026. Specific tuition fees are not listed on the program page.
How to apply
1. Register Your InterestYou can register your interest to receive updates and information about studying at UAL.
2. Submit ApplicationApplications are made via the UAL online portal. This includes providing personal details, academic history, and employment history.
3. Prepare Your PortfolioA strong portfolio showcasing your art direction and design work is crucial. It should demonstrate your skills, creativity, and potential.
4. Write a Personal StatementYour personal statement should explain your motivation for applying, your interests in art direction, and how the course aligns with your career goals.
5. Attend an Interview (if required)Shortlisted candidates may be invited for an interview, which could be in person or online.
Accreditation
Not specified.
Frequently asked questions
What are the academic entry requirements for the MA Design for Art Direction?
+
Applicants should have a UK first-class or second-class honours degree (2:2 or above) or an equivalent qualification in a relevant subject. International applicants' specific country qualifications will be considered.
What are the English language proficiency requirements?
+
Applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency with an IELTS overall score of 6.5, with a minimum of 5.5 in each component.
How long is the MA Design for Art Direction program?
+
The MA Design for Art Direction is a full-time program with a duration of 15 months.
When do applications open for international students for the 2027/28 entry?
+
International applications for the 2027/28 entry will open in autumn 2026.
What career paths can I pursue after completing this MA?
+
Graduates are prepared for various roles in the creative industries, including Art Director, Visual Communicator, Campaign Designer, and Creative Studio Practitioner.