Course code: 0470
The BA (Graphic Design) provides a practical and theoretical education for students who wish to work in various facets of the design profession, and in particular, with design studios, advertising agencies and publishers.
The broadly based program of study helps students to develop the visual means to communicate creatively and clearly using ideas, images and media. The range of `messages' the designer is required to develop is extensive. It is therefore important for the student to arrive at an understanding of a broad spectrum of information and ideas, including an understanding of perception, a sensitivity to form, a knowledge of communication theory, an understanding of the cultural context of design, an ability to analyse problems and to communicate concepts verbally, an awareness of relevant materials and media and an ability to choose objectively that which is appropriate, and a knowledge of business responsibilities.
The department's studio environment offers different kinds of learning: the development of practical experience, the exploration of theory and its application to specific problems, research and experimentation.
The principal aims of the course are to prepare students for an immediate goal - a rewarding career in design practice, and a long-term goal - continuing personal and creative growth.
The learning objectives for the Bachelor of Arts (Graphic Design) are as follows:
In the second year, these studies are further developed and the more specialised areas of print technology and illustration are introduced. Students work on set projects of increasing diversity and complexity with the aim of integrating their creative abilities and technical skill to produce work of an individual and professional standard.
The third year of the course offers greater depth and flexibility of study where students can choose an elective in illustration, photography or computer studies. In this final year, students are required to research thoroughly and take each project to professional presentation standards. The subjects of marketing and professional studies further orient students towards a rewarding career in design. Liaison with industry, contacts with practising designers and participation in national and international design competitions provide essential stimulus and support.
All applicants, including those from interstate or overseas, are required to participate in a preselection procedure, followed by an interview and folio presentation if selected. Because of the large numbers applying for our course we have implemented a two-stage preselection program. The preselection will determine approximately 500 applicants who will then proceed to interview and folio presentation. All applicants must contact the office of the Department of Graphic Design in writing only by the end of September to receive a preselection kit.
Progression through the course will depend on the successful completion of all subjects in each year. Only in exceptional circumstances will a student who has failed in a subject be considered to undertake more advanced studies. This will be subject to the approval of an examination committee chaired by the head of department.
An 80 per cent attendance record is required before a student may present for assessment in any subject. Exceptions will be subject to the approval of the head of department.
Progressive assessment is applied to project work, and current marks are displayed for the benefit of students.
At the end of the academic year and under the direction of the head of department, a panel of all lecturing staff reviews student folios in all years of the course. Only on approval by the panel will a student progress to the following year's studies.
Final year students' folios are also reviewed by a minimum of two outside assessors who are experts within the design profession.
First year
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