Year 1 Module Descriptions
Like most university courses Design for Visual Communication is comprised of modules. These are individually assessed and accumulated as you progress.
Year 1 - Semester 1
VIC101, Research and Writing 1, 20 Credit Points, Pat Griffin
The module is text-based and facilitates a broader understanding of the context of visual communication practice using theoretical debate and analytical methodologies. The student led nature of this module, through researching and writing, will develop intellectual confidence and self-expression.
VIC102, Design Methods, 40 Credit Points, Liam McComish
This module is designed to introduce the broad subject known as visual communication.
With an emphasis on problem solving activities, the module helps students understand visual communication as a problem solving process requiring intellectual reasoning as well as creative output. The core area of study will be an introduction to the role of words and images in visual communication through typography and visualisation, investigating letterforms, visualisation for design and portfolio creation. Students are also introduced to graphic design software, composition with type and graphic representation.
Year 1 - Semester 2
VIC103, Imaging 1, 20 Credit Points, Christine Blaney (Updated 10/10)
This module will develop understanding of a wide range of image making and illustration techniques, methods and processes within a visual communication context. It focuses on the development of design skills from previous modules alongside acquisition of expertise in use of a variety of imaging methods and techniques in both experimental and finished work. Students will learn about traditional and digital imaging: illustration, book design, drawing, photography and mark making and will develop your ideas/concepts to produce finished work.
VIC104, Visual Studies, 40 Units, Liam McComish
Designing with text is fundamental to successful visual communication design and therefore important to establish clear best practice at this early stage of the course. Students are taught the importance of layout and hierarchy in communication design and introduced to practical and theoretical issues relating to working with text. Combining image and type for communication and effect are explored through fundamental approaches to form and structure. Students are also required to write contextual material that is presented through the practical skills they have developed. Topics include typographic terminology, hierarchies of information, typographic experimentation, historical context for visual communication design, graphic design 1890-1980, layout and composition, introduction to page design software, report Writing, materials and processes, production methods, audience consideration and presentation techniques.