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Subjects A-B

  • Accounting
  • Agriculture
  • Ancient History
  • Animal Science
  • Anthropology
  • Archaeology
  • Architectural Engineering
  • Architecture
  • Art
  • Biological Sciences
  • Biomedical Engineering
  • Biomedical Sciences
  • Building and Surveying
  • Business and Management

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  • Chemistry
  • Classics and Classical Studies
  • Climate Science
  • Computer Science
  • Construction Management
  • Consumer Behaviour and Marketing
  • Creative Writing
  • Drama
  • Ecology
  • Economics
  • Education
  • Engineering
  • English Language and Applied Linguistics
  • English Literature
  • Environment

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  • International Relations
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  • Languages and Cultures
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  • Linguistics
  • Marketing
  • Mathematics
  • Medical Sciences
  • Meteorology and Climate
  • Museum Studies

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  • Pharmacology
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  • Physician Associate Studies
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  • Surveying and Construction
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Subjects U-Z

  • Wildlife Conservation
  • Zoology

Subjects A-C

  • Agriculture
  • Ancient History
  • Animal Sciences
  • Archaeology
  • Architecture
  • Art
  • Biological Sciences
  • Biomedical Sciences
  • Business (Post-Experience)
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  • Chemistry
  • Classics and Ancient History
  • Climate Science
  • Computer Science
  • Construction Management and Engineering
  • Consumer Behaviour
  • Creative Enterprise
  • Creative Writing

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  • Data Science
  • Economics
  • Education
  • Energy and Environmental Engineering
  • Engineering
  • English Language and Applied Linguistics
  • English Literature
  • Environmental Sciences
  • Film, Theatre and Television
  • Finance
  • Food and Nutritional Sciences
  • Geography and Environmental Science
  • Graphic Design

Subjects H-P

  • Healthcare
  • History
  • Information Management and Digital Business
  • Information Technology
  • International Development and Applied Economics
  • Languages and Cultures
  • Law
  • Linguistics
  • Management
  • Meteorology and Climate
  • Microbiology
  • Nutrition
  • Pharmacy
  • Philosophy
  • Physician Associate
  • Politics and International Relations
  • Project Management
  • Psychology
  • Public Policy

Subjects Q-Z

  • Real Estate and Planning
  • Social Policy
  • Speech and Language Therapy
  • Strategic Studies
  • Teacher training
  • Theatre
  • Typography and Graphic Communication
  • War and Peace Studies
  • Zoology

BA Graphic Communication

  • UCAS code
    W213
  • Typical offer
    BBB
  • Year of entry
    2023/24 See 2022/23 entry
  • Course duration
    Full Time:  3 Years
  • Year of entry
    2023/24 See 2022/23 entry
  • Course duration
    Full Time:  3 Years

COVID-19 update


Find out how we're adapting during COVID-19.

Develop the ability to express your design ideas confidently, learn how to solve real-life graphic communication challenges, and graduate with a diverse and relevant portfolio.

The Department of Typography & Graphic Communication offers you a distinctive approach to a design degree. We integrate different ways of thinking about design – practical, historical, and theoretical – so that you will become a well-rounded ‘thinking designer’, with a profile that’s sought after by the design industry.

You will undertake practical projects across digital and print media, and learn about design principles and how to respond to user needs. Current projects include: brand campaigns, e-books and magazines, music packaging, newspapers, pictograms, wayfinding and sign systems, and websites and mobile apps. You will also enjoy a hands-on approach to design history through our renowned graphic design collections.

You will learn how to communicate your design ideas clearly and persuasively through project reports and presentations. Essays and a final-year dissertation will develop your research skills and your ability to bring your ideas together. This combination of academic writing, problem-solving, and client-facing communication gives you a competitive edge in the employment market. You can also broaden your profile by studying abroad in your second year.

We offer small-group teaching, accessible tutors, dedicated 24-hour studio spaces, and a hands-on approach to design history through our renowned graphic design collections. You will learn how to communicate your design ideas clearly and persuasively through project reports and presentations. Essays and a final year dissertation will develop your research skills and your ability to bring your ideas together. You will also have opportunities to collaborate with staff on research projects with real-world impact. Overall, 95% of students were satisfied with the Department of Typography & Graphic Communication (National Student Survey, 2021). 

The curriculum is constantly evolving and is informed by the research carried out by our staff. Our research, much of which is concerned with everyday communication, is recognised as excellent – we were recently ranked first among all UK art and design institutions in the Research Excellence Framework 2014. 100% of our research was recognised internationally and 56% was rated world-leading.

Placement

We bring the benefits of placements into the Department for all students. Employers such as IBM Design and Oxford University Press are actively engaged with our teaching and offer individual feedback on student projects. You will develop your approach to design in a practical way through working with real clients, real budgets and real time scales. These ‘real jobs’ are supported by your tutors and form part of your assessment. You will also work alongside the University’s professional design team to gain experience of dealing with print and online production processes.

In your second year you will have the opportunity to study abroad at one of our partner institutions, where the design courses are taught in English. We currently have links with DHBW in Ravensburg, Germany; Emily Carr University of Art and Design in Vancouver, Canada; and Monash University in Melbourne, Australia.

Overview

Develop the ability to express your design ideas confidently, learn how to solve real-life graphic communication challenges, and graduate with a diverse and relevant portfolio.

The Department of Typography & Graphic Communication offers you a distinctive approach to a design degree. We integrate different ways of thinking about design – practical, historical, and theoretical – so that you will become a well-rounded ‘thinking designer’, with a profile that’s sought after by the design industry.

You will undertake practical projects across digital and print media, and learn about design principles and how to respond to user needs. Current projects include: brand campaigns, e-books and magazines, music packaging, newspapers, pictograms, wayfinding and sign systems, and websites and mobile apps. You will also enjoy a hands-on approach to design history through our renowned graphic design collections.

You will learn how to communicate your design ideas clearly and persuasively through project reports and presentations. Essays and a final-year dissertation will develop your research skills and your ability to bring your ideas together. This combination of academic writing, problem-solving, and client-facing communication gives you a competitive edge in the employment market. You can also broaden your profile by studying abroad in your second year.

We offer small-group teaching, accessible tutors, dedicated 24-hour studio spaces, and a hands-on approach to design history through our renowned graphic design collections. You will learn how to communicate your design ideas clearly and persuasively through project reports and presentations. Essays and a final year dissertation will develop your research skills and your ability to bring your ideas together. You will also have opportunities to collaborate with staff on research projects with real-world impact. Overall, 95% of students were satisfied with the Department of Typography & Graphic Communication (National Student Survey, 2021). 

The curriculum is constantly evolving and is informed by the research carried out by our staff. Our research, much of which is concerned with everyday communication, is recognised as excellent – we were recently ranked first among all UK art and design institutions in the Research Excellence Framework 2014. 100% of our research was recognised internationally and 56% was rated world-leading.

Placement

We bring the benefits of placements into the Department for all students. Employers such as IBM Design and Oxford University Press are actively engaged with our teaching and offer individual feedback on student projects. You will develop your approach to design in a practical way through working with real clients, real budgets and real time scales. These ‘real jobs’ are supported by your tutors and form part of your assessment. You will also work alongside the University’s professional design team to gain experience of dealing with print and online production processes.

In your second year you will have the opportunity to study abroad at one of our partner institutions, where the design courses are taught in English. We currently have links with DHBW in Ravensburg, Germany; Emily Carr University of Art and Design in Vancouver, Canada; and Monash University in Melbourne, Australia.

Entry requirements A Level BBB

Select Reading as your firm choice on UCAS and we'll guarantee you a place even if you don't quite meet your offer. For details, see our firm choice scheme.

Typical offer

BBB

All suitable applicants will be asked to attend a portfolio day and provide samples of their work.

International Baccalaureate

30 points overall

Other information

Preference for a combination of practical and non-practical subjects.

We will need to see your portfolio before making you an offer.

Extended Project Qualification

In recognition of the excellent preparation that the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) provides to students for University study, we can now include achievement in the EPQ as part of a formal offer.

BTEC Extended Diploma

DDM

English language requirements

IELTS 7.0, with no component below 6.0

For information on other English language qualifications, please visit our international student pages.

Alternative entry requirements for International and EU students

For country specific entry requirements look at entry requirements by country.

International Foundation Programme

If you are an international or EU student and do not meet the requirements for direct entry to your chosen degree you can join the University of Reading’s International Foundation Programme. Successful completion of this 1 year programme guarantees you a place on your chosen undergraduate degree. English language requirements start as low as IELTS 4.5 depending on progression degree and start date.

  • Learn more about our International Foundation programme

Pre-sessional English language programme

If you need to improve your English language score you can take a pre-sessional English course prior to entry onto your degree.

  • Find out the English language requirements for our courses and our pre-sessional English programme

Structure

  • Year 1
  • Year 2
  • Year 3

Compulsory modules include:

X

Module details


Title:

Design across time

Code:

TY1DAT

Convenor:

DR Matthew Lickiss

Summary:

Centuries of development and change in print and graphic communication have developed from the rich interplay of technologies, personalities, cultural movements, and stylistic trends. In this module you will develop an understanding of both long-term trends and specific details, making connections across design history. You will combine research with design practice in responding to a creative design brief that will explore ways in which graphic communication can engage, inform, and educate. The module will take place in summer term, allowing BA Graphic Communication students to spread their workload across the year.

Assessment Method:

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

X

Module details


Title:

Design Practice 1

Code:

TY1DP1

Convenor:

MS Kim Marshall

Summary:

An introduction to the practice of typography and graphic communication

Assessment Method:

Project 100%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

X

Module details


Title:

History of graphic communication 1

Code:

TY1HG1

Convenor:

DR Rob Banham

Summary:

The module provides students with an introduction to the history of graphic communication over the past 150 years, and the changing role of the graphic designer during that time. We will study the key design movements of the 20th century and the work of some of its most influential graphic designers and typographers.

Assessment Method:

Assignment 50%, Oral 50%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

X

Module details


Title:

Integrated Design Methods

Code:

TY1INT

Convenor:

MR James Lloyd

Summary:

An introduction to graphic communication through the integrated study of design practice, theory and technology.

Assessment Method:

Project 100%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

X

Module details


Title:

Printing and printmaking

Code:

TY1PRI

Convenor:

DR Rob Banham

Summary:

The invention of printing, and the resulting spread of knowledge, played a crucial part in the development of modern society. This module will provide students with a broad overview of advances in printing and printmaking over the past 500 years. We will study how technological advances and the changing needs of readers affected the production, distribution, and reception of printed documents of all kinds. Students will also gain practical experience of printing, including letterpress, copper-engraving, and stone lithography, and will have opportunities to handle books, prints, and artefacts produced by some of the great printers and printmakers of the past.

Assessment Method:

Assignment 50%, Portfolio 30%, Project 20%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

X

Module details


Title:

Skills for design practice

Code:

TY1SK

Convenor:

MRS Rachel Warner

Summary:

This module focuses on developing technical skills for design practice, in particular design software skills, as well as providing a foundation for workplace skills such as time management and constructive evaluation of design processes and outcomes.

Assessment Method:

Project 100%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Code Module Convenor
TY1DAT Design across time DR Matthew Lickiss
TY1DP1 Design Practice 1 MS Kim Marshall
TY1HG1 History of graphic communication 1 DR Rob Banham
TY1INT Integrated Design Methods MR James Lloyd
TY1PRI Printing and printmaking DR Rob Banham
TY1SK Skills for design practice MRS Rachel Warner

Optional modules include:

X

Module details


Title:

Ancient Greek 1

Code:

CL1G1

Convenor:

MRS Jackie Baines

Summary:

This module aims to teach students some elements of the Ancient Greek language and give them skills to read Ancient Greek at an elementary level.

Assessment Method:

Exam 30%, Class test 70%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

X

Module details


Title:

Latin 1 (C)

Code:

CL1L1

Convenor:

MRS Jackie Baines

Summary:

This module aims to teach students some elements of the Latin language and give them skills to read Latin at an elementary level.

Assessment Method:

Exam 30%, Class test 70%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Code Module Convenor
CL1G1 Ancient Greek 1 MRS Jackie Baines
CL1L1 Latin 1 (C) MRS Jackie Baines

These are the modules that we currently offer. They may change for your year of study as we regularly review our module offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Compulsory modules include:

X

Module details


Title:

Design practice 2

Code:

TY2DP2

Convenor:

MS Sara Chapman

Summary:

The development of the practice of graphic communication.

Assessment Method:

Project 100%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

X

Module details


Title:

Design thinking

Code:

TY2DT

Convenor:

PROF Rick Poynor

Summary:

An introduction to the ideas and discussions that surround and underpin contemporary design practice.

Assessment Method:

Assignment 70%, Oral 10%, Project 20%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

X

Module details


Title:

Introduction to editorial design

Code:

TY2ED

Convenor:

DR Rob Banham

Summary:

An introduction to editorial typography and typographic detailing.

Assessment Method:

Assignment 30%, Project 70%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

X

Module details


Title:

Professional Practice 1

Code:

TY2PRP

Convenor:

MR Geoff Wyeth

Summary:

An introduction to the skills and contexts of professional practice in graphic communication.

Assessment Method:

Oral 30%, Project 70%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

X

Module details


Title:

User-centred design

Code:

TY2UD

Convenor:

DR Matthew Lickiss

Summary:

User-centred and inclusive design skills are essential for developing meaningful, useful, and marketable communications and services. The module helps you to develop an insightful approach to user-centred and inclusive design.

This module builds on the integrated approach established in TY1INT, integrating the development of design skills with theory and professional knowledge. Practical project work develops skills in identifying user needs and then applying these needs though a professional design process. Inclusive design workshops and design hack tasks develop the ability to communicate effectively about design decisions in relation to inclusive design, adding engagement with theory, research, and professional knowledge to complement the practical work.

Assessment Method:

Project 50%, Report 50%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

X

Module details


Title:

Visualising Information

Code:

TY2VI

Convenor:

MRS Rachel Warner

Summary:

This module focuses on the communication of information and data from both a design practice and theoretical perspective. We live in an information age, with vast amounts of data being generated and communicated every second – visualisation techniques (such as charts, diagrams, graphs, maps etc.) are key to supporting understanding. Teaching on this module focuses on the extension of graphic communication skills through the application of design practice, theory, and technology to project work; and the ability to communicate effectively about the graphic communication of information through elements of design history extending engagement with theory.

Assessment Method:

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Code Module Convenor
TY2DP2 Design practice 2 MS Sara Chapman
TY2DT Design thinking PROF Rick Poynor
TY2ED Introduction to editorial design DR Rob Banham
TY2PRP Professional Practice 1 MR Geoff Wyeth
TY2UD User-centred design DR Matthew Lickiss
TY2VI Visualising Information MRS Rachel Warner

These are the modules that we currently offer. They may change for your year of study as we regularly review our module offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Compulsory modules include:

X

Module details


Title:

Design Practice 3

Code:

TY3DP3

Convenor:

DR Rob Banham

Summary:

An advanced study of the practice of graphic communication.

Assessment Method:

Oral 13%, Project 88%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

X

Module details


Title:

Dissertation

Code:

TY3DS

Convenor:

DR Matthew Lickiss

Summary:

The development of a research intensive dissertation in the field of typography and graphic communication.

Assessment Method:

Assignment 10%, Dissertation 90%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

X

Module details


Title:

Professional Practice 2

Code:

TY3PRP

Convenor:

MR James Lloyd

Summary:

The development of skills in the professional practice of graphic communication, through design work undertaken for clients; and the development of career awareness.

Assessment Method:

Portfolio 20%, Project 60%, Report 20%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Code Module Convenor
TY3DP3 Design Practice 3 DR Rob Banham
TY3DS Dissertation DR Matthew Lickiss
TY3PRP Professional Practice 2 MR James Lloyd

Optional modules include:

X

Module details


Title:

Branding Project

Code:

TY3BP

Convenor:

MS Sara Chapman

Summary:

The module will be taught in either the Autumn or Spring terms, depending on student selection and staff availability. If the module runs in the Spring term then the contact hours will be the same as those listed below for the Autumn term.
 
This module provides students with an opportunity to explore branding design in response to a client brief.

Assessment Method:

Oral 20%, Project 80%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

X

Module details


Title:

Design for change

Code:

TY3DFC

Convenor:

DR Jeanne-Louise Moys

Summary:

The module will be taught in either the Autumn or Spring terms, depending on student selection and staff availability. If the module runs in the Spring term then the contact hours will be the same as those listed below for the Autumn term.

This module extends the ways in which students critically engage with issues of diversity, inclusion, global perspectives and sustainability in design and explore these through a practical project that responds to a self-selected ‘Design for change’ brief.

Students engage with a range of current industry debates, relevant theoretical perspectives and examples of global design practices beyond the ‘Western canon’. This multifaceted context provides a critical foundation from which students identify their own ‘Design for change’ brief. Students then develop practical outcomes that respond to their chosen ‘design problem’ and demonstrate appropriate engagement with socially responsible ‘Design for change’ practices.

Examples of the kinds of practical deliverables that could be relevant for self-selected briefs include: apps, multimedia campaigns, social media campaigns, exhibitions, and motion graphics.

Assessment Method:

Oral 20%, Project 80%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

X

Module details


Title:

Advanced editorial design

Code:

TY3ED

Convenor:

MS Sara Chapman

Summary:

The module will be taught in either the Autumn or Spring terms, depending on student selection and staff availability. If the module runs in the Spring term then the contact hours will be the same as those listed below for the Autumn term.

This module addresses advanced editorial design issues in complex texts.

Assessment Method:

Set exercise 15%, Project 85%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

X

Module details


Title:

Information Design

Code:

TY3INF

Convenor:

DR Matthew Lickiss

Summary:

The module will be taught in either the Autumn or Spring terms, depending on student selection and staff availability. If the module runs in the Spring term then the contact hours will be the same as those listed below for the Autumn term.

An introduction to information design with a focus on user-centred communication and problem solving, integrating design principles and methods.

Assessment Method:

Project 100%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

X

Module details


Title:

Packaging Design

Code:

TY3PD

Convenor:

DR Rob Banham

Summary:

The module will be taught in either the Autumn or Spring terms, depending on student selection and staff availability. If the module runs in the Spring term then the contact hours will be the same as those listed below for the Autumn term.

This module provides students with an opportunity to explore printed packaging design in response to an agreed brief.

Assessment Method:

Assignment 25%, Project 75%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

X

Module details


Title:

Skills for design practice

Code:

TY3SK

Convenor:

MRS Rachel Warner

Summary:

The development of skills in graphic communication through a self-directed project.

Assessment Method:

Project 100%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

X

Module details


Title:

Typeforms

Code:

TY3TYP

Convenor:

PROF Gerry Leonidas

Summary:

The module will be taught in either the Autumn or Spring terms, depending on student selection and staff availability. If the module runs in the Spring term then the contact hours will be the same as those listed below for the Autumn term.

An introduction to concepts and practices in typeface design.

Assessment Method:

Project 100%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

X

Module details


Title:

Word and image

Code:

TY3WI

Convenor:

DR Ruth Blacksell

Summary:

The module will be taught in either the Autumn or Spring terms, depending on student selection and staff availability. If the module runs in the Spring term then the contact hours will be the same as those listed below for the Autumn term.

A study of the relationship between words and images in graphic communication.

Assessment Method:

Project 100%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

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Module details


Title:

Genes, Lifestyle and Nutrition

Code:

FB3NGLA

Convenor:

DR Vimal Karani

Summary:

Assessment Method:

Assignment 60%, Practical 40%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

X

Module details


Title:

Climate Change

Code:

GV3CC

Convenor:

PROF Maria Shahgedanova

Summary:

This course examines natural and human-induced climate change with reference to examples from different parts of the world. By the end of the module, students will gain knowledge about forcings driving climate change (e.g. greenhouse gases, solar variability, volcanic eruptions, desert dust and black carbon aerosol), impacts of climate change on natural and managed systems, methods of climate change assessment and projection, and adaptation to climate change. The course combines the science of climate change (e.g. climatic variability with emphasis on El Nino Southern Oscillation and North Atlantic Oscillation, conceptual understanding of climate modelling) with its application (e.g. investigation of impacts of climate change on glaciated environments, water resources, urban areas). It addresses interactions between climatic changes and conditions of economies and communities focusing on vulnerabilities to climate change, development of adaptation strategies and techniques, and assessments of barriers to adaptation. 

Assessment Method:

Exam 50%, Report 50%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

X

Module details


Title:

Ecosystems Modelling

Code:

GV3ESM

Convenor:

DR Shovonlal Roy

Summary:

This module concentrates on modelling ecological dynamics with emphasis to ecosystems on land and in the ocean, which are relevant to a range of global issues, from environmental changes to food security, including the earth’s primary production, oxygen generation, and carbon fixation. The module will cover techniques and aspects required for in-depth understanding the ecosystems function and dynamics. As such this module has got some mathematical contents which is higher than usual in typical Geography modules. Lecture materials and recommended reading include basic calculus, differential equations, logarithms and algebraic manipulations, however, these are not included in the assessments. The content, both technical and general, is suitable for  the final year undergraduate students with little or no experience in ecosystem modelling, but those who are interested in learning the building blocks of modelling, and applying it to the stat-of-the-art environmental and ecological systems.

Assessment Method:

Assignment 30%, Oral 10%, Report 60%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

X

Module details


Title:

Tropical Rainforests, Climate & Lost Civilisations

Code:

GV3TRC

Convenor:

PROF Frank Mayle

Summary:

This module aims to unravel the long-term (multi-millennial scale) history of tropical forests using a range of complimentary approaches and disciplines – e.g. palaeoecology, archaeology and anthropology. This inter-disciplinary perspective integrates physical and human geography, ecology, and archaeology. The module focuses on tropical Latin America and revolves around several key questions: 1) What have been the interrelationships between climate change, human land use (e.g. burning and agriculture), and tropical forest ecosystems through the Holocene, i.e. the last ca. 11,000 years? 2) What is the origin of current patterns of biodiversity? 3) What are the implications of this historical perspective for conservation policy and understanding the fate of tropical forests over the 21st century? 4) To what extent have past cultures/civilisations been constrained by, or benefited from, their tropical surroundings and why did they collapse?

Assessment Method:

Exam 50%, Report 50%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

X

Module details


Title:

Intercultural Communications

Code:

LS3IC

Convenor:

DR Erhan Aslan

Summary:

In this module, students will explore how people of different discourse systems or groups communicate with one another in various face-to-face and digitally-mediated contexts. Specifically, students will gain an understanding of how assumptions and values that have been constructed or adopted within a specific culture group influence the ways in which people successfully communicate with each other as well as experience miscommunication. Students will become familiar with a variety of topics in intercultural communication as they engage in hands-on analyses of intercultural encounters.

Assessment Method:

Assignment 50%, Set exercise 10%, Project 40%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

X

Module details


Title:

Criminology

Code:

LW3CRY

Convenor:

PROF Paul Almond

Summary:

Criminology is a lecture-led module examining the nature of crime as a social phenomenon, theoretical explanations of criminal behaviour, and official responses to crime. The module will incorporate tutorial classes and a piece of assessed coursework.

Assessment Method:

Exam 50%, Assignment 50%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

X

Module details


Title:

Identity and Conflict in Modern Europe

Code:

ML3IC

Convenor:

DR Athena Leoussi

Summary:

This module focuses on identity and conflict in modern Europe. By examining race, gender, warfare, revolution and immigration, it explores the evolution of modern conceptions of the self, of what it is to be human. The module further examines a) the ways in which  modern identities have been pursued and realised in different European contexts, for example, through social movements and national and international legislation; b) the conflicts which new and modern visions of the self have generated and in which they have been shaped; and c) cultural expressions of identity and conflict in paintings, sculptures, monuments and films.

Assessment Method:

Exam 50%, Assignment 30%, Oral 20%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

X

Module details


Title:

Language and Power

Code:

ML3LP

Convenor:

MR Federico Faloppa

Summary:

This module aims to familiarise students with the linguistic means by which a whole range of persuasive texts can be analysed. We will also be considering the use of language (and of a language in general) as a powerful tool in itself. We will investigate a range of discourse types and theoretical approaches, and we will for instance look at stylistic and rhetorical features, linguistic creativity and language “play”, techniques for revealing a text’s underlying ideological stance and bias, power relationships and their effect on language.

Assessment Method:

Oral 25%, Project 75%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

X

Module details


Title:

Entrepreneurial Project

Code:

MM302

Convenor:

MR Keith Heron

Summary:

New venture start-up involves more than generating a creative idea…it involves starting-up or taking action.  

In this module we expect a student to have done something to test out their start-up hypothesis, in order to build their own and potential investor confidence, prior to venture launch. 

A start-up business plan is not a measure of entrepreneurial capacity. This module will not require a Business Plan as one of the task assessments but it will require students to design ‘tests’ of the Value Proposition thinking and explain the learning from their progress towards start-up. 

This module also provides an option for students to test and develop an idea generated by an external entrepreneur, thus enabling greater engagement with a real business situation. This will only occur where the module convenor has assessed the client idea as being suitable for conforming to the aims and assessment specification of this module. 

This module is delivered at the University of Reading and the University of Reading Malaysia

Assessment Method:

Project 40%, Report 60%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

X

Module details


Title:

Feminism and Political Theory

Code:

PO3FPT

Convenor:

DR Maxime Lepoutre

Summary:

This module explores the contributions of feminism to contemporary political theory. It begins by examining theoretical controversies surrounding the definition, subject matter, and aims of feminism. It then brings these theoretical insights to bear on a range of pressing issues in feminist politics, such as abortion, surrogacy, pornography, marriage and sexist language.

Assessment Method:

Assignment 100%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

X

Module details


Title:

International Political Economy

Code:

PO3IPE

Convenor:

DR Jonathan Golub

Summary:

The course is an introduction to International and Comparative Political Economy (IPE and CPE, respectively), which focuses on the interaction between states and markets at the domestic and international levels. It covers the major theoretical approaches to IPE and CPE and applies them to study international trade, globalisation, the crisis, capitalism, inflation and growth regimes. It also considers the relation between globalisation and the welfare state as well as capitalism.

Assessment Method:

Exam 40%, Assignment 40%, Oral 20%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

X

Module details


Title:

US Foreign and Defence Policy since 1950

Code:

PO3USF

Convenor:

DR Graham O'Dwyer

Summary:

This module examines US foreign and defence policy from the end of the Second World War to the present, with a focus on understanding US foreign policy processes, institutions, and decision-making. At heart the module seeks to address three broad questions: who makes (and influences) US foreign policy? How has US foreign policy changed since the end of the Second World War? What is the role of US foreign policy in the world today? By exploring historical and contemporary cases, students will analyse how foreign policy decisions are made, who influences them, and how this has evolved overtime. Drawing on primary and secondary sources, students will gain an understanding of crucial events such as the Cuban Missile Crisis, the Vietnam War, the end of the Cold War, and the War on Terror. Finally, the course will explore salient challenges faced by US foreign policymakers today.

Assessment Method:

Assignment 50%, Report 50%

Disclaimer:

The modules described on this page are what we currently offer. Modules may change for your year of study as we regularly review our offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Code Module Convenor
TY3BP Branding Project MS Sara Chapman
TY3DFC Design for change DR Jeanne-Louise Moys
TY3ED Advanced editorial design MS Sara Chapman
TY3INF Information Design DR Matthew Lickiss
TY3PD Packaging Design DR Rob Banham
TY3SK Skills for design practice MRS Rachel Warner
TY3TYP Typeforms PROF Gerry Leonidas
TY3WI Word and image DR Ruth Blacksell
FB3NGLA Genes, Lifestyle and Nutrition DR Vimal Karani
GV3CC Climate Change PROF Maria Shahgedanova
GV3ESM Ecosystems Modelling DR Shovonlal Roy
GV3TRC Tropical Rainforests, Climate & Lost Civilisations PROF Frank Mayle
LS3IC Intercultural Communications DR Erhan Aslan
LW3CRY Criminology PROF Paul Almond
ML3IC Identity and Conflict in Modern Europe DR Athena Leoussi
ML3LP Language and Power MR Federico Faloppa
MM302 Entrepreneurial Project MR Keith Heron
PO3FPT Feminism and Political Theory DR Maxime Lepoutre
PO3IPE International Political Economy DR Jonathan Golub
PO3USF US Foreign and Defence Policy since 1950 DR Graham O'Dwyer

These are the modules that we currently offer. They may change for your year of study as we regularly review our module offerings to ensure they’re informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Fees

New UK/Republic of Ireland students: £9,250*

New international students: £20,300

*UK/Republic of Ireland fee changes

UK/Republic of Ireland undergraduate tuition fees are regulated by the UK government. These fees are subject to parliamentary approval and any decision on raising the tuition fees cap for new UK students would require the formal approval of both Houses of Parliament before it becomes law.

EU student fees

With effect from 1 August 2021, new EU students will pay international tuition fees. For exceptions, please read the UK government’s guidance for EU students.

Additional costs

Some courses will require additional payments for field trips and extra resources. You will also need to budget for your accommodation and living costs. See our information on living costs for more details.

Financial support for your studies

You may be eligible for a scholarship or bursary to help pay for your study. Students from the UK may also be eligible for a student loan to help cover these costs. See our fees and funding information for more information on what's available.

Careers

We have close links with industry, and will develop your professional and practical skills through supervised assignments for real clients.

Our graphic communication graduates are in high demand, because the combination of creative, production, and client-facing skills we teach help to prepare you for industry. 97% of leavers are in work and/or study 15 months after the end of their course (Graduate Outcomes Survey 2018/19; First Degree responders from Typography & Graphic Communication).

Our graduates take leadership roles in a range of creative industries. Recent graduates have gone on to work across the professional design sector, from publishing, branding, and information design, to web and mobile interface design. Employers of our graduates include BBC Online, the Financial Times, Vodafone, Adobe, Oxford University Press, and Penguin Books, as well as many specialist design studios and start-up agencies.

Alternatively, you can further develop your knowledge and skills on one of our internationally recognised master's courses in Book Design, Creative Enterprise, Information Design, Graphic Design, or Typeface Design.

See our students' work

Editorial graphic design print

See our Instagram page.

Check out our degree show website.

Contextual offers


We make contextual offers for all our courses.

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  • Graphic Communication and Design

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