Communication Design MDes

Communication Design focuses on the delivery of a message to an audience using an appropriate medium through an array of materials, both digital and physical.

Such outputs can include, but is not exhaustive of, the following:

• comics and graphic novels
• exhibition and event design
• publication design
• social media and web
• data visualisation
• illustration
• advertising campaigns
• guerilla advertising
• motion graphics

Communication Design can be crucial in working towards a more sustainable future. In this course, you will have the opportunity to be an agent of change. You will learn to drive communication that talks to an audience. This is important if you are interested in inspiring action and solving issues related to society and the environment.

This course will be of interest to you if you have a background in illustration, graphic design, animation, or comics and graphic novels. It will also be attractive to you if you have an interest in solving complex problems through narrative and visual storytelling.

You will learn to undertake research into project-led briefs. These can challenge social, environmental and political issues.

The complex problems we face today cannot be solved by individuals working alone. In this course, you will learn to engage in interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary activity. You will learn to work collaboratively - bringing together ideas to enable the change you want to see.

An MDes typically requires you to study 240 credits over two years. We facilitate this learning in 180 credits over three terms in one calendar year.

In the first term, you will refine a programme of research and development. This allows you to research a subject you are interested in. This will help you uncover data that you will visualise through narrative and image.

You will also undertake a module which develops your existing communication design skills.

In the second term, you will expand your research skills further. You will respond to project briefs that will further develop your design practice.

You will also choose from a range of optional modules. This will allow you to strengthen your networks with other students studying other Art & Design subjects. You will have the opportunity to engage and collaborate with others. You will also be able to expand your breadth of skills.

In the third term, you will have a choice between a Realisation or Placement module.

The Realisation module will allow you to undertake a personal project. This will demonstrate your research and making skills. This will also allow you to demonstrate your ability to use storytelling. This will allow you to solve issues related to society and community, the environment, or political activism.

The Placement module will allow you to undertake a project within a professional organisation.

Dundee is a UNESCO City of Design and the only one in the UK.

This means that we can facilitate conversations with external organisations with an interest in Communication Design.