• Undergraduate

Graphic Design (Visual Communication and Illustration) with Foundation Year BA (Hons)

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Overview

Overview

Why study at the University of West London?
  • Ranked 30th university in the UK - The Guardian University Guide 2025
  • Number 1 London university for overall student satisfaction - National Student Survey 2024**
  • Best university for Student Experience and Teaching Quality in the UK - The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2024
Why study this course?

This is a one-year foundation course after which you will study for a three-year degree. You will be able to choose any of the BA courses that we run in the London School of Film, Media and Design.

After a year spent building your skills in good academic practices and research while experiencing all the aspects of student life, you will be ready to progress seamlessly to your chosen degree.

Our foundation year course is particularly suited to you if:

  • you do not have the relevant qualifications in a media or design subject
  • you are returning to study
  • if English is not your first language and could benefit from a year of practising your verbal and writing skills
  • if you are still deciding on which field of media and design you would like to specialise in.

Please note that a £2000 Path to Success bursary is available to all UK foundation year students, which is non-repayable.

Select your desired study option, then pick a start date to see relevant course information:

Study options:
We support flexible study by offering some of our courses part-time or via distance learning. To give you real world experience before you graduate, we also offer some courses with a placement or internship. All available options are listed here. Your choices may affect some details of your course, such as the duration and cost per year. Please re-check the details on this page if you change your selection.
Without Foundation Year
Duration: 3 years

Start date:

If your desired start date is not available, try selecting a different study option.

Why study Graphic Design (Visual Communication and Illustration) with Foundation Year with us?

Why study Graphic Design (Visual Communication and Illustration) with Foundation Year with us?

A collage of students
A collage of students
A collage of students

What our students say…

The Foundation Course at UWL gave me the confidence to believe in myself.

Joe Bowring, Broadcast and Digital Journalism

The Foundation Year has been extremely challenging but definitely worth it.

Samantha Cleary-Giegold, Broadcast and Digital Journalism

My Foundation Year at UWL has been such an amazing experience. I learned how to grow my confidence and push myself to achieve. If I could go back I would choose to do a Foundation Year again! 

Andrea Vega Demuru, Advertising and PR
Next
Why study a Foundation year
Why study a Foundation year 2
Our printmaking design studio, for paper screen printing, lino printing, mono printing, dry point etching and bookbinding.
The Digital Print Bureau has state of the art workstations, fully colour calibrated professional screens and cutting-edge software.
Course detail & modules

Course detail & modules

Why study a Foundation Year? 
A Foundation Year prepares you for study at undergraduate level, it s the first step on your university journey.  The skills and knowledge you acquire will stand you in good stead for your degree studies as well as your entry into the world of work. Over the course of an academic year, you will explore a range of subjects that will underpin your future studies, as well as enjoy full access to university facilities.

What will I study during the Foundation Year? 
You will be supported to help you make the most of the foundation year through:

  • independent study (Personalised Learning module)
  • an introduction to the  various areas of the media and design industry (Creative Sectors module)
  • an understanding of how media and design fit with wider society (Contextual Studies module)
  • introduction to the software used within the industry (Creative Research module)
  • learning good academic practice and discipline (Academic Performance module)
  • creation of a media artefact which reflects your chosen path of study (Major Project module). 

Further details about the modules can be found on the right-hand side of this page.

Through these modules, you come to have a better understanding of the areas within media and design. You will become familiar with techniques that help you to:

  • manage your time and study effectively
  • learn academic, research and presentation skills.

Any other benefits? 
You will have full access to the University of West London's facilities as well as being fully integrated into university life.

This well-established course is taught by an experienced team of lecturers committed to enabling and supporting you to develop your skills and creativity.

Compulsory modules

  • Contextual Studies in Media and Design

    Explore how media and design have developed over the years through changes in technology and society.

  • Creative Sectors

    This is a specialist module with a career-led and practical focus that will introduce you to the more 'hands on' side of the media and design and communications industries. You will be required to demonstrate some understanding of your chosen subject specialism and future career path.

  • Personalised Learning

    An opportunity for you to reflect on the skills and qualities that you already have and to identify those that you need to acquire.

  • Creative Research in Media and Design

    Undertake the individual research for your major project work whilst learning industry-standard software.

  • Study Skills for Success

    This module will enable you to read critically, present an argument, and distinguish between the quality and suitability of materials. It will prepare you to use and evaluate a range of evidence sources throughout your degree.

  • Major Project (Foundation Year)

    You will work in groups to produce content showcased in the UWL's interactive magazine FOUND.

Compulsory modules

  • Visual Languages

    In this module, you’ll explore foundational elements of graphic design, visual communication, and illustration with an emphasis on skill development, visual thinking, and literacy to effectively convey meaning through design. You’ll experiment with various media, materials, and processes—from pencil and ink to lens and screen. 

  • Digital Foundations

    This module introduces you to a wide range of essential digital media skills, techniques and approaches to print, web design, interaction design, motion graphics, animation and installation. You will also explore a wide range of software packages, including Adobe Photoshop, InDesign, Illustrator, After Effects and Cinema 4D. As well as relevant coding and scripting languages for example Processing, HTML, and CSS. 

  • Typography

  • Design Contexts

    In this module, you will learn how we give things meaning and how this is represented through systems of language, signs and symbols and how designers can represent or re-present the world in terms of meaningful concepts or ideas. 

  • Ideas and Process

    This module will introduce the development of ideas and processes and how this will inform design solutions appropriate for use in professional practice and employment.

Compulsory modules

  • Word and Image

    In this module, you will have the opportunity to develop useful and compelling work through creative play, experimentation and the creation of design solutions. 

  • Design Contexts and Critical Research

    In this module you will build and develop on the research and analysis that took place at L4 in Design Contexts by examining visual culture through the articulation of beliefs and value systems, exploring further ways of considering contemporary issues and their bearing on visual culture. 

  • Narrative Structures and Motion

    In this module, you will work with a range of media to explore and examine the nature and creation of visual narratives across creative practice. It will encompass, but not be limited to, illustration, motion, film, animation, video games and publishing and their historical and contemporary contexts.

  • Designing for Innovation and Interaction

    In this module, taught sessions will introduce you to and explore concepts that include use cases, mental models, accessibility, prototyping, testing and narratives. With additional workshops and activities on interaction design (IxD) and technology including menus, toolbars, icons and symbols, motion, coding, scripting, and typography on screen.

  • Developing Design Practice

    This module will teach you how to apply theoretical knowledge in a practical setting, promoting activities and practices relevant at a professional level to create solutions to solve client problems. It includes studying creative standards, analysing project briefs, and examining current trends in visual communication and graphic design.

Compulsory modules

  • Major Project

    In the final year of your degree course, you will create your own project with a high degree of independence. The module will commence with a series of sessions focusing on key aspects necessary for success in the undertaking of a dissertation project including organisational skills, research ethics, managing resources and professional practice. Following this, you will start a self-managed design project of your choosing with guidance and support.

  • Experimental Communications

    You will have the chance to challenge conventional wisdom and discover innovative solutions for design challenges. You will look at laser cutting, 3D printing, projection, experimental animation, glitch and more. Through your assignments you will explore experimental communication techniques and learn to mix and match unconventional approaches from different disciplines.

  • Presenting and Portfolio

    This module will facilitate the finessing, creation, curation and compilation of your portfolio, or portfolios, that contain the diverse range of work that best represents you as a skilful and effective communicator, that exemplifies your independent voice and direction and supports your future career aspirations. 

  • Professional Design Practice and Positioning

    During this module you will examine and use a range of ideation and design methodologies, image-making techniques and software. Through various workshops and activities, you will have the opportunity to explore topics you are curious and passionate about, creating new work that will expand the range and relevance of your portfolio. 

Entry requirements

Entry requirements

72 UCAS points required from level 3 qualifications

These can include:

  • A-Levels at grades B and C (if you have two A-Levels) or grades D, D and D (if you have three), or above
  • BTEC Extended Diploma with Merit, Merit, Pass
  • Access to HE Diploma
  • T-Levels

You also need GCSE English and Maths (grade 9 – 4 / A* - C) or Level 2 equivalents.

Looking for BA (Hons) Graphic Design (Visual Communication and Illustration) without Foundation Year?

View course
Whether you are changing career or don't have the exact subjects and grades required for this course, you might want to choose this course with a foundation year. This will give you an extra year's study to prepare you for the standard degree programme, where you can go on to graduate with a full Honours degree. Follow the link to see full details of the course with foundation year.

You may be eligible for a student loan to cover the cost of tuition fees, or a maintenance loan. Additional funding is available to some types of students, such as those with dependants and disabled students.

Looking for BA (Hons) Graphic Design (Visual Communication and Illustration) without Foundation Year?

View course
Whether you are changing career or don't have the exact subjects and grades required for this course, you might want to choose this course with a foundation year. This will give you an extra year's study to prepare you for the standard degree programme, where you can go on to graduate with a full Honours degree. Follow the link to see full details of the course with foundation year.
5.5 IELTS or above

You need to meet our English language requirement - a minimum of IELTS 5.5 for each of the four individual components (Reading, Writing, Speaking and Listening). Visit our English language requirements page for information on other English language tests we accept.

You also need academic qualifications at the same level as UK applicants. In some countries where teaching is in English, we may accept local qualifications. Check for local equivalents. 

We offer pre-sessional English language courses if you do not meet these requirements.

Find out more about our English Language courses.

Looking for BA (Hons) Graphic Design (Visual Communication and Illustration) without Foundation Year?

View course
Whether you are changing career or don't have the exact subjects and grades required for this course, you might want to choose this course with a foundation year. This will give you an extra year's study to prepare you for the standard degree programme, where you can go on to graduate with a full Honours degree. Follow the link to see full details of the course with foundation year.

You may be eligible for a student loan to cover the cost of tuition fees, or a maintenance loan. Additional funding is available to some types of students, such as those with dependants and disabled students.

Looking for BA (Hons) Graphic Design (Visual Communication and Illustration) without Foundation Year?

View course
Whether you are changing career or don't have the exact subjects and grades required for this course, you might want to choose this course with a foundation year. This will give you an extra year's study to prepare you for the standard degree programme, where you can go on to graduate with a full Honours degree. Follow the link to see full details of the course with foundation year.
Fees & funding

Fees & funding

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Additional costs

There are additional costs for this course that are not included in the tuition fees. See the links below to get a better idea of what to expect:

Please note:

  • Fees for the 2026/27 academic year and onwards may be subject to Government regulation and change.
  • Tuition fees are charged for each year of your course. If your course runs for two years or more, you will need to pay the fee for each academic year at the start of that year.
  • If your course runs for less than two years, the cost above is for your full course and you will need to pay the full fee upfront.
  • If no fee is shown above then the fees for this course are not available yet. Please check again later for updates.

Funding your studies

You may be eligible for a student loan to cover the cost of tuition fees, or a maintenance loan. Additional funding is available to some types of students, such as those with dependants and disabled students.

Foundation year bursary

If you are a UK student joining a foundation year course with UWL, you will receive a £2000 Path to Success bursary to support your studies. This is not a loan and does not need to be repaid. You will receive £500 per year subject to your attendance, engagement and progression through your studies. 

To find out more, explore our Undergraduate scholarships and bursaries page.

Funding your studies
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Additional costs

There are additional costs for this course that are not included in the tuition fees. See the links below to get a better idea of what to expect:

Please note:

  • Fees for the 2026/27 academic year and onwards may be subject to Government regulation and change.
  • Tuition fees are charged for each year of your course. If your course runs for two years or more, you will need to pay the fee for each academic year at the start of that year.
  • If your course runs for less than two years, the cost above is for your full course and you will need to pay the full fee upfront.
  • If no fee is shown above then the fees for this course are not available yet. Please check again later for updates.

International students - funding your studies

We offer scholarships for international students including International Ambassador Scholarships. 

Further information about funding and financial support for international students is available from the UK Council for International Student Affairs.

 

Financial support for international students
Teaching staff

Teaching staff

Jo is wearing a light blue shirt with the collar open and silver chain necklace. They have blue eyes and short light brown hair. Jo is smiling.

Dr Jo Henderson

Course Leader for Foundation Year courses within the London School of Film, Media and Design.

My teaching experience started with A-Level and BTEC in Media and Design since then I have taught at various London institutions at all levels of Higher Education in the field of media, documentary, television and contextual studies. I joined UWL as a full-time staff member in 2016 to establish the successful Foundation course.

Course Leader for Foundation Year courses within the London School of Film, Media and Design.

My teaching experience started with A-Level and BTEC in Media and Design since then I have taught at various London institutions at all levels of Higher Education in the field of media, documentary, television and contextual studies. I joined UWL as a full-time staff member in 2016 to establish the successful Foundation course.

Study & career progression

Study & career progression

Someone working on a tablet surrounded by design swatches and a Mac

Study Progression: after completing your Foundation Year, you will progress to undergraduate level and can choose to study any of the London School of Film, Media and Design's BA (Hons) courses.

Career Progression

A graphic design career can take you in a number of inspiring directions. Once you complete your graphic design degree, you could go on to work in: 

  • graphic design studios
  • interdisciplinary consultancies
  • publishing houses
  • new media/multimedia studios
  • advertising agencies 

Some of our former students have also successfully set up their own design businesses while students who pursue a career in illustration tend to work on the basis of freelance commissions.

You may decide to specialise in a related area or explore a new subject. Please see our postgraduate courses for a range of options.

How to apply

How to apply

Search for courses

ARTSFEST

line drawing of a girl's head

Find out more about the work our students produce and view some of their recent work by visiting our Design ARTSFEST page. 

Find out more

Important notes for applicants

Disclaimer

*Modern universities - defined as higher education institutions that were granted university status in, and subsequent to, 1992.

**The National Student Survey 2023 and 2024 - Average of answers to all questions by registered student population. Excludes specialist institutions.

Testimonials - our students or former students provided all of our testimonials - often a student from the course but sometimes another student. For example, the testimonial often comes from another UWL student when the course is new.

Optional modules - where optional modules are offered they will run subject to staff availability and viable student numbers opting to take the module.

Videos - all videos on our course pages were accurate at the time of filming. In some cases a new Course Leader has joined the University since the video was filmed.

Availability of placements - if you choose a course with placement/internship route we would like to advise you that if a placement/internship opportunity does not arise when you are expected to undertake the placement then the University will automatically transfer you to the non-internship route, this is to ensure you are still successful in being awarded a degree.