Graphic Design Beginners Short Course

About this course

The course explores graphic design as visual communication, with emphasis on developing ideas and explaining the rationale behind design decisions. Participants examine everyday signs and signals through lectures and discussion, building an understanding of semiotics and critical analysis. A series of projects introduces fundamental design tasks and gives participants opportunities to develop and implement concepts. Each project is supported by contextual teaching and analysis of relevant examples. Work is discussed through group critique, with most projects completed outside class and brought back for further discussion.

What you'll learn

• Develop a clear rationale for graphic design concepts
• Analyse everyday signs and signals using semiotic ideas
• Generate relevant concepts in response to design tasks
• Use research to inform appropriate design solutions
• Apply concepts through fundamental analogue design projects

Is this course right for you?

The course is intended for complete beginners as well as learners who want to extend existing graphic design knowledge. Participation includes lectures, class discussion and group critique, alongside completing project work outside class.

• Suitable regardless of prior experience
• Includes discussion and critique of participants’ work
• Requires project work to be completed outside class

Before you go

• The course is entirely analogue, and computers are not required.
• Most projects are completed outside class and brought to the following class for discussion.