Why Bachelor of Graphic Communication Design?
Want a career where every day you put your creative skills to use? Bring ideas to life through innovative design and striking visuals with Adelaide University.
From crafting memorable brand identities and infographics, to packaging solutions, websites and dynamic motion graphics, you’ll transform concepts into powerful messages that inform, influence and inspire.
Work on real-world projects in state-of-the-art design studios, honing your craft while exploring diverse media – from print to digital.
Whether you’re designing for publishing, branding or digital media platforms, an exciting and creative career in communication design is waiting.
Overview
The Bachelor of Graphic Communication Design at Adelaide University gives you the skills to create powerful visual solutions across platforms, media and contexts.
You’ll explore essential areas such as identity design and visual strategy, interactive and digital design while developing your unique creative style and understanding of the important role design has in today’s world and for the future.
The degree emphasises hands-on learning, so you get to work on real-world projects that enhance your portfolio and prepare you for a variety of roles. Throughout your studies, you'll cultivate critical thinking and problem-solving skills that are crucial for effective design practice.
You’ll graduate well-prepared for diverse roles such as a graphic designer, web designer, packaging designer, brand strategist, User Interface (UI) designer, User Experience (UX) designer, or art director. With this degree, you’ll confidently enter the workforce, ready to shape visual communication and make a significant impact across industries.
Key features
Learn to blend creativity with strategy to produce captivating visuals that communicate powerful messages. - Develop your own unique design style and learn to adapt it for a variety of audiences and platforms.
- Master industry standard design tools.
- Collaborate with real-world clients through hands-on projects, building a professional portfolio before you graduate.
- Learn from experienced professionals and explore the latest ideas in visual communication, branding, publishing and digital design.
- Exit with a diploma after one year, or an associate degree after two years.
What you'll learn
In the Bachelor of Graphic Communication Design at Adelaide University, you’ll explore the dynamic world of visual communication.
In your first year, you'll build a solid foundation with core courses that introduce design thinking and key design principles, tools and practices. You will study topics like:
- Digital design principles and methods
- Design perspectives
- Drawing for art and design
- Typography.
As you progress into your second year, the focus shifts to more specialist courses where you'll learn skills in critical thinking and creative process, including Artificial Intelligence (AI) as a tool for design. You’ll also explore principles in user experience (UX) design, information design, packaging design and gain advanced typography skills.
Your final year prepares you for industry and includes projects for real-world clients, competitions and opportunities for industry placement. You’ll tackle advanced design challenges that refine your skills for various roles after graduation. You’ll study courses in:
- Design for digital interaction
- Critical design practice
- Graphic communication design professional practice.
Throughout the program, you'll participate in collaborative projects, gaining valuable experience and building a professional portfolio.
This degree will empower you to create impactful designs across various media and contexts. Graduate prepared for a range of career opportunities in the field of graphic communication design.
What courses you'll study
Complete 144 units comprising:
- 138 units for Core courses, and
- 6 units for Electives
Complete 138 units comprising:
- 18 units for all Common core, and
- 120 units for all Program core
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Course name
First Nations Peoples and Knowledges and Culturally Responsive Teaching
|
Course code
INDG4000
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Understanding Complexities Impacting Families and Communities
|
Course code
EDUCX110
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
The Brain and Learning
|
Course code
PSYCX200
|
Units
6
|
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Course name
Thinking By Design
|
Course code
GRAP1000
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Drawing for Art and Design
|
Course code
GRAP1001
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Design Perspectives
|
Course code
GRAP1002
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Graphic Communication Design Studio 1
|
Course code
GRAP1003
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Digital Design Principles and Methods
|
Course code
GRAP1004
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Typography Studio 1
|
Course code
GRAP1005
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Graphic Communication Design Studio 2
|
Course code
GRAP1006
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Principles of UX Design
|
Course code
GRAP2000
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Critical Design Issues
|
Course code
GRAP2001
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Graphic Communication Design Studio 4
|
Course code
GRAP2002
|
Units
12
|
|
|
Course name
Typography Studio 2: Advanced Design for Reading
|
Course code
GRAP2003
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Graphic Communication Design Studio 3
|
Course code
GRAP2006
|
Units
12
|
|
|
Course name
Integrated Studio A
|
Course code
GRAP3000
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Graphic Communication Design Studio 5
|
Course code
GRAP3001
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Design for Digital Interaction
|
Course code
GRAP3002
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Critical Design Practice
|
Course code
GRAP3003
|
Units
6
|
|
|
Course name
Graphic Communication Design Professional Practice: Capstone
|
Course code
GRAP3004
|
Units
12
|
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | |||
| Semester 1 | |||
 |
Course name
Thinking By Design
|
Course code
GRAP1000
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Drawing for Art and Design
|
Course code
GRAP1001
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Design Perspectives
|
Course code
GRAP1002
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Digital Design Principles and Methods
|
Course code
GRAP1004
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |||
|
Course name
Graphic Communication Design Studio 1
|
Course code
GRAP1003
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Typography Studio 1
|
Course code
GRAP1005
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Graphic Communication Design Studio 2
|
Course code
GRAP1006
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
| Year 2 | |||
| Semester 1 | |||
|
Course name
Principles of UX Design
|
Course code
GRAP2000
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Graphic Communication Design Studio 3
|
Course code
GRAP2006
|
Units
12
|
|
Course name
Typography Studio 2: Advanced Design for Reading
|
Course code
GRAP2003
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |||
|
Course name
Critical Design Issues
|
Course code
GRAP2001
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Graphic Communication Design Studio 4
|
Course code
GRAP2002
|
Units
12
|
|
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
| Year 3 | |||
| Semester 1 | |||
|
Course name
Integrated Studio A
|
Course code
GRAP3000
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Graphic Communication Design Studio 5
|
Course code
GRAP3001
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Design for Digital Interaction
|
Course code
GRAP3002
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |||
|
Course name
Critical Design Practice
|
Course code
GRAP3003
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Graphic Communication Design Professional Practice: Capstone
|
Course code
GRAP3004
|
Units
12
|
|
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
Complete 6 units comprising:
- 6 units from University-wide electives
| Course name | Course code | Units | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | |||
| Semester 1 | |||
|
Course name
Thinking By Design
|
Course code
GRAP1000
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Drawing for Art and Design
|
Course code
GRAP1001
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Design Perspectives
|
Course code
GRAP1002
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Digital Design Principles and Methods
|
Course code
GRAP1004
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |||
|
Course name
Graphic Communication Design Studio 1
|
Course code
GRAP1003
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Typography Studio 1
|
Course code
GRAP1005
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Graphic Communication Design Studio 2
|
Course code
GRAP1006
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
| Year 2 | |||
| Semester 1 | |||
|
Course name
Principles of UX Design
|
Course code
GRAP2000
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Graphic Communication Design Studio 3
|
Course code
GRAP2006
|
Units
12
|
|
Course name
Typography Studio 2: Advanced Design for Reading
|
Course code
GRAP2003
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |||
|
Course name
Critical Design Issues
|
Course code
GRAP2001
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Graphic Communication Design Studio 4
|
Course code
GRAP2002
|
Units
12
|
|
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
| Year 3 | |||
| Semester 1 | |||
|
Course name
Integrated Studio A
|
Course code
GRAP3000
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Graphic Communication Design Studio 5
|
Course code
GRAP3001
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Design for Digital Interaction
|
Course code
GRAP3002
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
| Semester 2 | |||
|
Course name
Critical Design Practice
|
Course code
GRAP3003
|
Units
6
|
|
Course name
Graphic Communication Design Professional Practice: Capstone
|
Course code
GRAP3004
|
Units
12
|
|
Course name
|
Course code
-
|
Units
6
|
Career outcomes
With a degree in graphic communication design, you could step into the role of a graphic designer, creating visually stunning and impactful designs that capture attention. You might also become an art director, guiding creative teams to bring innovative projects to life. Perhaps you’ll explore content creation, producing engaging visuals for websites, social media and marketing campaigns.
There are also exciting opportunities in UX design, where you could enhance user experiences through intuitive and aesthetic interfaces.
As a graduate, you’ll be equipped to work in diverse sectors, from design consultancies, advertising agencies and tech companies to non-profits and corporate environments.
Your skills will open doors in branding, multimedia production and digital marketing. You’ll be able to impactfully make your mark in the dynamic world of visual storytelling. The possibilities are limitless when you embark on your creative career journey.
Industry trends
The demand for graphic designers, particularly for web and mobile applications, is expected to drive future job opportunities. Our degree ensures you are well prepared to meet the evolving demands of the design industry as technology continues to advance (Aussie Career Insights, 2024).
Ready to apply?
Please note that a non-refundable application fee of AUD$150 applies for every application submitted to Adelaide University.
Your study experience and support
Adelaide University sets you up for success in your studies – and your social life. You’ll have access to work placement and internship opportunities, overseas study tours and exchanges, networking events with guest speakers and more. Our campuses are equipped with purpose-built facilities including lecture theatres, libraries, workshops, laboratories, and spaces that simulate real work environments. These are all supported by the latest technologies and a 24/7 online learning platform with personalised study information and resources.
You’ll have everything you need to live well and thrive during your studies, with health services on campus, gymnasiums, technology zones and modern student lounges. Get involved in campus sport or join our student clubs that will connect you to your passions – and the people who share them.
Adelaide also has a variety of accommodation options to suit your individual requirements and budget, with options ranging from dedicated student accommodation to private rentals. One of the world’s most liveable cities, Adelaide has lots of leafy parks, gardens and social hubs – and some of the highest living standards globally. No matter where you are in Adelaide, you’re only a short distance from beaches, vineyards, museums, art galleries, restaurants, bars and parklands. Visit the accommodation web page to find out more.
Student services
We’re here to support you on your student journey. Adelaide University offers a range of support services and facilities, including:
- Career advice and mentoring services
- Personal counselling
- LGBTQIA+ support
- Academic support
- Fees and finance help
- Security services
- Accommodation services
- Common rooms
- Prayer rooms.
You’ll also have unlimited access to our dedicated student support hub. Visit in-person or online, or contact our friendly team by phone. We can assist you with anything study-related including enrolment, identification cards, timetables, fees and more.
Your campus
You'll be studying at one of our renowned campuses, accessing cutting-edge facilities and contemporary study spaces.
Study hours
Your courses will require a combination of different learning formats, including lectures, tutorials, workshops, seminars and practicals. Aside from your classes, you’ll also need to allocate additional time for independent study. This may include assignments, readings, projects and contributing to online discussion forums. As a rough guide, full-time studies may require 12-26 hours of class time and 14-18 hours of independent study per week.
Assessment
During your studies at Adelaide University, you’ll complete a mixture of practical, professional and research-based learning. Your assessment types will vary depending on the degree you’re studying, but may include:
- Case studies
- Essays and assignments
- Examinations
- Group projects
- Internships and placements
- Practicals
- Presentations
- Reports and project documentations
- Research projects
- Workplace and classroom contributions.
