UNIVERSITY OF THE ARTS LONDON · UNITED KINGDOM
MA Graphic Communication Design
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
24 mo
Duration
—
IELTS
—
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- Two years (60 weeks)Course Duration
- September 2026Start Date
- Central Saint MartinsCollege
- Focus on research through studio and writing practicePedagogy
- Explores social, climate, and racial justice through designSocietal Impact
- International student and staff communityDiversity
This Master of Arts (MA) in Graphic Communication Design at Central Saint Martins offers a critical and rigorous approach to understanding and practicing graphic design in a complex visual world. The course encourages an open and experimental framework for developing critical practice, working across traditional specialisms like typography and illustration, as well as emerging digital and social media practices. You will explore graphic design as a research practice, combining studio work and writing to question existing knowledge and propose new forms of understanding within the discipline. The programme emphasizes the relational nature of design, positioning it as a practice that actively reconfigures cultural, social, and environmental contexts. With a diverse international community of students and staff, the course fosters critical exchange and examines the historical and contemporary contexts of graphic design. The curriculum is structured around three units: 'Methods,' 'Methods ↔ Positions,' and 'Methods ↔ Positions ↔ Projections.' These units guide you through iterative experimentation with visual media and communication tools to develop your research practice. You will learn to interrogate existing knowledge, articulate your own positions within the field, and project your work into new territories through critical engagement with form, production, and audience. The course also addresses urgent global challenges, encouraging students to consider how graphic communication design can critique and intervene in systems of exploitation and contribute to envisioning just and sustainable alternatives.
Curriculum
Coursework and learning progress across three units. Each unit involves project briefs, independent planning, studio work, and written components. Presentation, discussion, and critique are integral to the learning process, supported by group and individual tutorials, peer-to-peer assessment, and self-reflection. Reading groups, seminars, and workshops on making further enhance critical engagement with the subject.
- Year 1
- Methods
- Year 2
- Methods ↔ Positions
- Methods ↔ Positions ↔ Projections
Careers
Graduates from MA Graphic Communication Design are equipped to engage critically with diverse professional contexts. The programme fosters skills applicable to various roles within the expanding field of graphic design and communication.
- Graphic Designer
- Typographer
- Illustrator
- Communication Designer
- Researcher
- Educator
Frequently asked questions
- When can international students apply for the MA Graphic Communication Design programme?
- International applications for the 2027/28 academic year will open in Autumn 2026. The programme is not accepting international applications for 2026/27 entry.
- What are the entry requirements for this Master's programme?
- Applicants typically need a relevant undergraduate degree. International applicants should note that the course is not open for 2026/27 entry, and applications for 2027/28 will open in Autumn 2026.
- How long is the MA Graphic Communication Design course?
- The MA Graphic Communication Design programme has a duration of two years, totaling 60 weeks of study.
- What documents are required for the application process?
- You will need to submit academic transcripts, a personal statement, a portfolio of your work, and references. Shortlisted candidates may also be invited for an interview.
- Are there scholarships available for international students?
- Yes, there is a UAL International Postgraduate £10,000 Scholarship available. You can apply for this and other scholarships, such as the Jane Rapley Scholarships, via the scholarship search.
- What career paths can graduates pursue after completing this MA?
- Graduates are prepared for various roles in graphic design and communication, including Graphic Designer, Typographer, Illustrator, Communication Designer, Researcher, and Educator.
Entry requirements
Undergraduate DegreeA relevant undergraduate degree is typically required.
For international students, applications for 2027/28 entry will open in Autumn 2026. The course is currently not accepting international applications for 2026/27 entry.
Fees
Tuition (international)Not specified for 2026/27 entry for international students.
Tuition (home)Not specified.
LivingNot specified.
International applications for 2027/28 entry will open in Autumn 2026. For 2026/27 entry, the course has places available for applicants with Home fee status only.
How to apply
1. Register InterestSign up to receive information and updates about studying at UAL via the provided portal.
2. Prepare ApplicationGather necessary documents and prepare to complete the online application form once it opens for the 2027/28 intake.
3. Submit ApplicationSubmit your completed application through the UAL online application system.
4. Interview (if applicable)Shortlisted candidates may be invited for an interview, which could be conducted online.
5. Receive OfferSuccessful applicants will receive an offer.
6. Accept Offer and Prepare for StudyAccept your offer and make arrangements for your studies, including visa applications if necessary.
Scholarships
Jane Rapley Scholarships—
UAL Home Postgraduate £7,000 Scholarships£7,000
UAL International Postgraduate £10,000 Scholarships£10,000
University Hardship Fund—
Frequently asked questions
When can international students apply for the MA Graphic Communication Design programme?
+
International applications for the 2027/28 academic year will open in Autumn 2026. The programme is not accepting international applications for 2026/27 entry.
What are the entry requirements for this Master's programme?
+
Applicants typically need a relevant undergraduate degree. International applicants should note that the course is not open for 2026/27 entry, and applications for 2027/28 will open in Autumn 2026.
How long is the MA Graphic Communication Design course?
+
The MA Graphic Communication Design programme has a duration of two years, totaling 60 weeks of study.
What documents are required for the application process?
+
You will need to submit academic transcripts, a personal statement, a portfolio of your work, and references. Shortlisted candidates may also be invited for an interview.
Are there scholarships available for international students?
+
Yes, there is a UAL International Postgraduate £10,000 Scholarship available. You can apply for this and other scholarships, such as the Jane Rapley Scholarships, via the scholarship search.
What career paths can graduates pursue after completing this MA?
+
Graduates are prepared for various roles in graphic design and communication, including Graphic Designer, Typographer, Illustrator, Communication Designer, Researcher, and Educator.