Bachelor of Communication Design (Honours)

This is a prestigious program in the discipline and practice of visual communication and graphic design or graphic design research for high achieving students who have completed a relevant undergraduate degree. You will undertake coursework, research and practical training and carry out an independent studio project in your selected area of specialisation, working closely with a supervisor who will provide you with individual guidance and academic counselling. The course offers a pathway to higher level research in visual communication and graphic design.

These course outcomes are aligned with the Australian Qualifications Framework level 8, the Bologna Cycle 1 and Monash Graduate AttributesAustralian Qualifications Framework level 8, the Bologna Cycle 1 and Monash Graduate Attributes (http://www.monash.edu.au/pubs/handbooks/alignmentofoutcomes.html).

Upon successful completion of this course it is expected that you will be able to:

1. identify, evaluate and communicate relevant research concepts in relation to aesthetics, history and theory both locally and internationally, at a level compatible with entry level higher research degree in the relevant discipline
2. interpret, represent and respond to the socio-economic and cultural contexts of visual communication and the ethical responsibilities of the professional designer
3. independently develop design strategies, form concepts, refine, detail and communicate design proposals
4. interpret, represent and respond to diverse modes of human experience, expression and linguistic diversity including the socio-economic and cultural contexts of visual communication practice and the ethical responsibilities of the profession
5. engage collaboratively with other professionals, recognise and contribute to project and business management practices relevant to visual communication
6. critically assess contemporary discourse, speculative design theory and research both locally and internationally.

This course consists of a combination of coursework and research. In the coursework component you will develop advanced theoretical and/or technical knowledge of communication design and appropriate research methodologies. In the research component you will plan and execute a major project under the individual guidance of an academic supervisor.

This course comprises 48 points: Part A: Coursework (18 points) and Part B: Independent research (30 points).

Units are 6 points unless otherwise indicated.

Part A. Coursework (18 points)

Students complete one of the streams below:

Higher degree stream:

• AHT4503 Advanced art theory
• AHT4504 Art theory research seminar

Professional practice stream:

• TAD4523 Design research methods and seminar
• PPR4102 Professional practice and business planning for design

In addition, for both streams:

• OHS1000 Introduction to art and design health and safety (0 points) - if not previously passed or exempted
• one 6 point elective chosen in consultation with the honours coordinator

Part B. Research (30 points)

Students complete:

• CDS4001 Major project (communication design) part 1 (12 points)
• CDS4002 Major project (communication design) part 2 (18 points)

Satisfactory completion of this course may provide credit toward a Monash master's by coursework degree and will provide the preparation necessary to undertake a master's by research degree or a doctorate (PhD) degree.