Graphic Communication and Illustration

The BA (Hons) in Graphic Communication and Illustration at Loughborough University offers a dynamic and comprehensive exploration of visual storytelling, creative design, and communication strategies. This innovative programme is designed to equip students with the essential skills and knowledge needed to excel in the competitive fields of graphic communication, illustration, and media production. Throughout the course, students will engage in a broad range of practical projects and theoretical studies, enabling them to develop a versatile portfolio and a deep understanding of contemporary design practices. The curriculum covers fundamental areas such as digital imaging, print media, branding, advertising, editorial illustration, and interactive media, providing a well-rounded education tailored to current industry demands. Students will learn to utilize industry-standard software and tools, fostering technical proficiency alongside their creative development. Emphasis is placed on developing strong conceptual thinking, effective communication skills, and an awareness of social and cultural contexts influencing visual culture. Collaboration and project management are integral parts of the programme, preparing students to work effectively both independently and within multidisciplinary teams. The course benefits from access to excellent studio facilities, industry links, and opportunities for work placements, ensuring students gain real-world experience. Graduates of this programme are well-prepared for careers in a variety of fields including advertising, publishing, branding, editorial illustration, multimedia design, and independent practice. The programme also offers pathways for further study and professional development, supporting students in pursuing careers in the creative industries or continuing their education through postgraduate degrees. Overall, the BA (Hons) in Graphic Communication and Illustration at Loughborough University is an inspiring and challenging programme that nurtures innovative thinking, technical skill, and professional readiness for emerging artists and designers passionate about visual communication.

In Year 1, students are encouraged to work through an exciting array of briefs that examine aspects of the subjects, including drawing and visualising, layouts and grids, animation, filmmaking, typography, ambient media, advertising and graphic theatre.

Semester 1

• Drawing: Discourses and Debates
• Visual Research in Practice 

Semester 2

• Introduction to Modern and Contemporary Art and Design 
• Visual Methods in Practice

In Year 2, students are encouraged to sample a wide range of specialisms including sequential and narrative design, corporate identity, editorial and book design, packaging and information graphics, all deployed across a range of media.

Semester 1

• Content and Context: Society, Culture and Economy
• Visual Culture: Histories and Theories

Semester 2

• Locating Practice: Interpreting Environment and Audiences
• 19th Century Bodies (Optional)
• African American Culture (Optional)
• Arts Management (Optional)
• Costume Design (Optional)
• Creative Dissent: Protest, Activism and Art (Optional)
• Elephants and Engines: An Introduction to Creative Writing (Optional)
• Fashion Theory (Optional)
• From Print to Digital: Publishing Revolutions (Optional)
• Introduction to Multimodality (Optional)
• Material Culture (Optional)
• Non-verbal Communication: Body Adornment and New Technologies (Optional)
• Philosophy, Literature and the Arts (Optional)
• Word and Image: Verbo-visual Exchange in Art and Literature (Optional)

In the Final year, students are stimulated to recognise and test their strengths as a graphic and illustrative communicator, building confidence in the ability to develop a personal focus.

Applicants are selected on the basis of their UCAS application, and also a portfolio submission and interview in order to assess academic potential beyond that provided as part of the application. An interview also gives applicants the opportunity to visit the School, meet staff and students, see facilities and get an insight into what it is like to be a student at Loughborough.  Loughborough accepts a wide range of qualifications for entry.

What are the English language requirements to study here?

The standard University IELTS English language requirements is 6.5 overall with 6.0 in each individual element (reading, writing, listening and speaking). Some Schools/Departments may require higher levels of English language than those specified. The requirements needed, will be sent to you in your offer communication.

For Research Degrees, some Schools/Departments may ask for a higher standard of English language qualifications due to the nature of the research work involved. Details will be included in your offer letter if this applies.

For Undergraduate Degree courses, some Schools/Departments may require higher levels than those specified.  These higher levels are detailed, where relevant and more information can be found here.

Generally the English Language test should have been taken within the previous two years, but where the test is older, evidence of continuing use of English, whether in the workplace or elsewhere, in the intervening period may be required.

The financing options for the Graphic Communication and Illustration program at Loughborough University are designed to support both domestic and international students throughout their studies. Eligible UK students can apply for various government-funded schemes, including the Student Loans Company (SLC) loans, which cover tuition fees and provide maintenance loans to contribute toward living expenses. These loans are repayable after graduation, contingent upon earning above a certain income threshold, and offer flexible repayment terms. International students are typically required to self-fund their studies unless they qualify for specific scholarships or sponsorship programs. Loughborough University offers a range of scholarships and bursaries aimed at supporting students financially; these are often competitive and may be awarded based on academic merit, financial need, or specific criteria related to the applicant's background or country of residence. In addition to scholarships, students may explore external funding options, including government grants, private sponsorships, and organization-specific scholarships available in their home countries or internationally. University-specific financing schemes also include payment plans that allow tuition fees to be paid in installments, easing the financial burden across the academic year. For international students, tuition fee deposits might be required upon acceptance, with the balance payable in accordance with the university’s schedule. Students are encouraged to research all available funding opportunities early and consult the university’s financial aid office for guidance on eligibility and application procedures. Furthermore, employment opportunities within the university, such as assistantships or part-time work, may help students offset expenses during their studies. Overall, the financing landscape for this program is comprehensive, offering multiple pathways for students to manage and fund their education effectively.

Future career

We have strong industry links and support our students in gaining work experience and placement opportunities in the UK and internationally.

Graduate careers have included: photography, art direction, graphic design, publishing, illustration, video production, television and film, artist, curator, art buyer, art editor, marketing, art director for advertising, branding, performing arts, exhibition and display design, app designer, comic illustrator, public relations, advertising and artists agents.

We are regularly contacted by industry requesting that our students gain experience by working on projects with, or for, them. Companies previously worked with include; Reebok, Swarovski, Ford, H&M, Radio Times, Abercrombie & Fitch, Shell and Mercedes Benz.