Course summary
The MA Graphic Design: Branding and Digital Strategy is designed for graduates of BA (Hons) Graphic Design (or related degrees) looking to take their skills to the next level. Whether you're working in design already or have recently completed your undergraduate studies, this course offers a unique opportunity to refine your expertise and expand your creative potential in the realms of graphic design, branding, and digital communications. This flexible programme has been carefully crafted to fit around your professional commitments, offering both full-time and part-time study options. This flexibility ensures that you can pursue your postgraduate qualification without having to sacrifice your career or personal life. We understand that achieving a balance between study and work is crucial, and our schedule allows you to manage your time effectively while still delivering outstanding results. Throughout the course, you will be challenged to think innovatively and push the boundaries of your current design practice. The focus is on developing strategic, creative thinking within the context of modern branding and digital design. By working on realistic projects, you will enhance your ability to create dynamic solutions and communication strategies for an ever-evolving digital world. A standout feature of this programme is its integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology within the learning process. AI tools are now integral to the design industry, and this course ensures you are equipped with the skills to harness the potential of AI in your work. You’ll explore how AI can support your creative decisions, streamline workflows, and offer new approaches to problem-solving in branding and digital design. With the rapidly evolving role of AI in design, you’ll be well-placed to lead in a future where technology and creativity go hand in hand. This qualification offers an opportunity to transform your approach to design and to position yourself at the forefront of the creative industry. Whether you're a freelance professional or educator, or aiming to work within a design agency, the skills, insights, and expertise gained throughout the course will prepare you for the challenges of a fast-changing digital world. Progression opportunities for graduates with the 'MA Graphic Design: Branding and Digital Strategy' qualification include: Continuing Education: Graduates may pursue further academic study, such as a PhD in Graphic Design, Branding, Marketing, or related fields, allowing them to specialise or focus on research. Career Advancement: The MA prepares graduates for senior roles such as Creative Director, Brand Strategist, Marketing Manager, UX/UI Designer, or Digital Marketing Specialist within agencies or organisations. Entrepreneurship: Some may launch their own design studio or branding consultancy, using the expertise and portfolio developed during the course to build independent businesses. Specialised Training: Additional certifications or workshops in UX, digital advertising, or branding strategy can further refine skills and enhance employability. Networking and Professional Associations: Joining industry groups, attending events, and participating in online communities offers graduates mentoring, collaboration, and job opportunities. Industry Partnerships: Strong connections with companies and agencies support practical learning and boost post-graduation employment prospects. Professional Development: Workshops, seminars, and guest lectures equip students with job search strategies, freelance business skills, and insights from industry leaders, ensuring they are career-ready.
Modules
This course includes the following core modules that all students complete*: A: Full Time 1 Year Trimester 1 (September to December) GDBDS1: Foundations of Digital Design (15 Credits) GDBDS2: User-Centred Design and Research (15 Credits) GDBDS3: Digital Strategy for Design (30 Credits) Trimester 2 (January to April) GDBDS4: Ideation and Concept Development (15 Credits) GDBDS5: Digital Advertising (15 Credits) GDBDS6: Branding Design Innovation (30 Credits) Trimester 3 (May to July) GDBDS7: Digital Dimensions (Field of Study (30 Credits) GDBDS8: Major Project and Portfolio Showcase (30 Credits) B: Part-Time (2 Years) Year 1 Trimester 1 (September to December) GDBD0S1: Foundations of Digital Design (15 Credits) GDBDS2: User-Centred Design and Research (15 Credits) Trimester 2 (January to April) GDBDS3: Digital Strategy for Design (30 Credits) Trimester 3 (May to July) GDBDS4: Ideation and Concept Development (15 Credits) GDBDS5: Digital Advertising (15 Credits) Year 2 Trimester 1 (September to December) GDBDS6: Branding Design Innovation (30 Credits) Trimester 2 (January to April) GDBD0S7: Digital Dimensions (Field of Study (30 Credits) Trimester 3 (May to July) GDBDS8: Major Project and Portfolio Showcase (30 Credits) *Occasional changes to modules and course content may take place. Students will be notified when applicable.
Assessment method
The flexible, fully online delivery mode of this MA programme allows students to balance their professional commitments with academic study. The programme includes introductory tasks, workshops, and virtual classroom webinars, simulating face-to-face learning. Tutor feedback is provided through online platforms, and students maintain a digital Project Development Journal to track their research, development, and final outcomes, reflecting on their learning. Students will complete learning and assessment activities designed to build knowledge and skills based on programme competencies. Clear instructions on objectives, module content, and assessments will guide them through each task. Additionally, a community of practice will be fostered, encouraging collaboration and peer feedback, with opportunities to apply learning to live projects and design sector competitions. The programme embraces inclusive teaching strategies, diversifying course content to highlight the work of designers from diverse backgrounds, including minority ethnic groups and LGBTQ+ perspectives. Students are encouraged to engage in respectful online discussions and collaborate on group projects across different identities. Assignments are designed to promote inclusivity, such as creating campaigns or designs for diverse audiences.
How to apply
International applicants
This course is not currently accepting applications from students needing a Student Visa
Entry requirements
Portfolio Review (if applicable): Applicants from design-related disciplines should submit a digital portfolio demonstrating their creative abilities. This may include branding projects, digital design work, UX/UI examples, illustrations, motion graphics, or other relevant visual communication projects. Applicants from non-design backgrounds may provide alternative evidence of their creative and strategic thinking, such as report-based marketing campaigns, brand analysis, content strategies, or research-led projects. Evidence of Relevant Experience: The programme values diverse forms of experience and recognises that applicants may come from a variety of academic and professional backgrounds. While prior industry experience is beneficial, it is not a requirement. Instead, applicants can demonstrate their potential in a range of ways, including: 1. Self-initiated or Academic Projects: Research-led branding concepts, digital strategy proposals, business case studies, or creative coursework that showcase analytical and problem-solving skills. 2. Internships & Work Placements: Experience in marketing, communications, design, digital media, or brand strategy through internships at agencies, start-ups, or corporate settings. 3. Freelance or Personal Projects: Independent branding, marketing, digital content creation, social media campaigns, or entrepreneurial projects that reflect strategic and creative thinking. 4. Collaborative or Interdisciplinary Work: Participation in group projects, competitions, community initiatives, or interdisciplinary research that demonstrates an understanding of branding, digital media, and consumer engagement. 5. Certifications & Skills Development: Completion of relevant courses or certifications (e.g.: Adobe Creative Suite, digital marketing, UX/UI design, data analytics, coding for digital media) that support skill-building in branding and digital strategy. We are committed to creating educational opportunities for people from a variety of backgrounds and situations. If you have been out of formal education for some time, and/or you do not have the qualifications stated, we might still be able to consider your application and offer you a range of support. We are here to help. Please get in touch to find out more.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
England | £7940 | Year 1 |
Northern Ireland | £7940 | Year 1 |
Scotland | £7940 | Year 1 |
Wales | £7940 | Year 1 |
Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website .
Additional fee information
Provider information
DN Colleges Group
The Hub
Chappell Drive
Doncaster
South Yorkshire
DN1 2RF