Communication Design and the Creative Economy

The BA (Hons) Communication Design and the Creative Economy at Kingston University offers students a dynamic and comprehensive education that explores the integral role of visual communication within the expanding creative industries. This innovative programme is designed to equip students with foundational skills in visual communication, graphic design, branding, and digital media while fostering an understanding of the broader economic, social, and cultural contexts that influence the creative sector. Throughout the course, students are encouraged to develop their creative voice and critical thinking abilities, enabling them to produce impactful, innovative design solutions for real-world challenges. The curriculum integrates theoretical knowledge with practical application, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to enter a competitive job market or pursue further academic research. Students will engage with a variety of creative practices, including typography, illustration, motion graphics, user experience design, and multimedia storytelling, supported by state-of-the-art facilities and industry-standard software. The programme emphasizes the importance of collaboration, innovation, and entrepreneurship, encouraging students to think creatively about how design can contribute to the economy and society. By exploring themes such as branding, marketing, digital culture, and emerging technologies, students gain valuable insights into the interconnectedness of communication design and the broader creative economy. With opportunities for work placements, industry collaborations, and portfolio development, graduates of this programme will be well-positioned to pursue careers as graphic designers, brand strategists, digital content creators, and creative entrepreneurs. The course’s strong industry links and focus on employability ensure that students are supported throughout their studies and beyond, preparing them to thrive in the fast-paced, ever-evolving landscape of communication design and the creative economy.

What this course offers you
This course is part of Kingston's unique Creative Industries portfolio of masters programmes. These courses provide an unusual mix of creative and business skills, so that creative people have the business development, collaborative and entrepreneurial experience to make a success of their talents.

The creative economy is populated by individuals with a wealth of different yet complementary skills and experience. Creating value in the creative economy is a dynamic process that cannot be taken by individual 'creatives' on their own.

"It is a very experiential course. You need to participate in your own learning and in other people's learning. We are looking for students who can think in 2D or 3D" Catherine Morel, course director.

Industry expertise

The learning on the creative economies courses does not happen in a bubble in addition to the cross-faculty expertise, students also benefit from regular visits from industry experts. There are field trips to see small and medium-sized businesses, as well as a whole host of events which connect industry, the local community, and to examine market interest. Input from practitioners in the creative industries and other industry experts and stakeholders adds an extra perspective to your studies.

Cross-faculty

Staff teaching on this course will be drawn from across the University, adding a richness and breadth to your learning. You will be taught by experts from:

* the Faculty of Art, Design and Architecture;
* the Faculty of Business and Law; and
* the Faculty of Art and Social Sciences.

Collaborative and practical

This range of courses is, by definition, collaborative. Students will be put in groups of four or five to work on their group projects with a broad mix of skills and specialisms in each group. Music students will be working alongside journalists and designers, and all students will have to try their hand at a wide variety of tasks and roles.

"I think that international mix is one of the nicest aspects of the course. You have such a diverse group of students; because it imitates the nature of work outside where you not only have to work across borders but on a global scale. Students learn a lot immediately about how they're different and how they're the same and how they can work together." Janja Song, lecturer

The course aims to hone your workplace skills, including:

* communication (oral, written and electronic);
* time management;
* data collation, review and synopsis;
* computing; and
* operation and teamwork.

International networks

Students come from all over the world to study on Kingston's creative economy courses, creating a truly international student body. During your masters course you will meet and work with students from a wide variety of countries and cultures. This will add international insight to class discussions and working groups, and contributes to a strong global alumni network.

"The course is geared towards having a network by the time you leave." Catherine Morel, course director

How to make things happen

While students on this course don't need to be entrepreneurs, they do need to be entrepreneurial. To take dreams and good ideas and turn them into a reality, you will need an understanding of what business looks for before investing, and what processes are needed to take a product or an idea to market.

"Unless creatives know how to talk to people who do business and know what makes them tick, they will not be successful in their careers. Students on this course soon learn what the questions are that the business side is asking and why." Janja Song, lecturer

The creative economy courses offer students the opportunity to try out many aspects of business and entrepreneurial roles, giving them the critical and analytical tools to develop their ideas and take them to the market.

Social and media-savvy

To be part of the growing and supportive community, all students are encouraged to create a blog and a twitter account to record and advertise their areas of interest, and share what they are creating. This leads to a learning community which can be accessed 24/7, as well as an established online presence.

The Bachelor of Arts in Communication Design and the Creative Economy at Kingston University requires applicants to demonstrate a strong interest in visual communication, design principles, and the role of creative industries in economic development. Prospective students should hold a relevant academic background or demonstrate equivalent practical experience. The program seeks individuals who are motivated, innovative, and possess a keen eye for detail, along with good communication skills. A portfolio showcasing previous work in design, visual communication, or related fields is often recommended, although specific portfolio requirements may vary. The course is suitable for students interested in exploring how communication design impacts branding, advertising, multimedia, and digital platforms within the creative economy framework. International applicants need to meet English language proficiency standards, such as IELTS or equivalent scores, to demonstrate their ability to succeed in a predominantly English-taught environment. Admission decisions consider both academic qualifications and potential for success in a dynamic, interdisciplinary study environment. The program emphasizes practical skills development through workshops, projects, and collaborations with industry partners. It encourages intellectual curiosity and critical thinking about design’s role within the broader economic and cultural context. There are no specific prerequisite subjects, but prior study in art, design, media, or communication can be advantageous. The degree aims to prepare students for a wide range of careers in design agencies, media companies, startups, and cultural organizations, as well as further postgraduate study. The application process involves completing the university’s standard application form, submitting academic transcripts, portfolio, personal statement, and references. The course places importance on diversity and inclusivity, welcoming applicants from various backgrounds. Successful applicants will be assigned academic advisors to support their learning journey, which integrates theoretical knowledge with practical application, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to thrive in the rapidly evolving creative economy.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The financing of the Communication Design and the Creative Economy program at Kingston University primarily covers tuition fees, living expenses, learning materials, and other related costs. International students are required to pay tuition fees that vary based on the year of study and residency status, with current figures for international students approximately £15,500 per year and for home students around £9,250 per year. These fees are usually paid annually or per semester, depending on the student’s payment plan.

Students are encouraged to explore various funding options, including government grants, scholarships, and bursaries offered by Kingston University. The university provides several scholarships for international students, which can significantly offset tuition costs. Moreover, students can consider external funding sources such as national and international scholarship programs, private sponsorships, and loans.

Living expenses in London, where Kingston University is located, include accommodation, food, transportation, and personal costs. On average, students should budget approximately £1,200 to £1,500 per month for their living expenses. Accommodation costs can vary, with on-campus options typically ranging from £4,000 to £8,000 per academic year, while off-campus options may vary depending on the location and type of accommodation.

Students can apply for student loans if they are eligible, including government-backed loans for UK students. International students often rely on private loans, sponsorships, or family support to cover their costs. Kingston University also provides financial advice and support services to help students plan and manage their finances effectively throughout their studies.

Part-time work opportunities are available for students to supplement their income, with many roles within or near the university campus. However, international students must ensure that any employment complies with visa regulations. Overall, financing a degree in Communication Design and the Creative Economy requires careful planning and consideration of multiple funding sources to ensure a successful academic journey at Kingston University.

The Communication Design and the Creative Economy program at Kingston University offers students a comprehensive education in the contemporary practices of visual communication, media production, and creative industry entrepreneurship. The course is designed to equip students with the necessary skills to succeed in the dynamic and fast-changing world of communication design, including graphic design, branding, digital media, and multimedia storytelling. Students will explore the theoretical and practical aspects of design, gaining knowledge in areas such as research methods, user experience (UX), interaction design, and creative project management. The curriculum emphasizes the development of innovative ideas, technical proficiency, and strategic thinking, preparing graduates to work in diverse sectors including advertising, publishing, digital marketing, and cultural industries.

Throughout the program, students have opportunities to engage with industry professionals through guest lectures, workshops, and live project collaborations, allowing them to develop real-world skills and build professional networks. The coursework encourages experimentation and critical analysis, fostering a mindset of continuous learning and adaptation to technological advancements. The programme also focuses on the economic aspects of creativity, exploring how the creative industries contribute to and are integrated within the broader economy, with modules dedicated to understanding market trends, intellectual property, and sustainable practices in the creative sector.

Facilities at Kingston University support experiential learning, with access to dedicated design studios, computer labs, and industry-standard software. The program prepares students for various career paths by instilling entrepreneurial skills and providing opportunities for placements and internships in London’s vibrant creative economy. Graduates are equipped to enter roles such as graphic designers, creative entrepreneurs, brand consultants, digital media specialists, or to pursue further research or postgraduate study. The program’s theoretical grounding combined with practical application aims to produce versatile and innovative professionals ready to shape the future of communication design within the global creative economy.