BA (HONS) GRAPHIC DESIGN 3+0, in collaboration with SHEFFIELD HALLAM UNIVERSITY, UK

Develop a portfolio of ideas for entering and thriving in the graphic design industry. Explore advertising, illustration, motion & interactive or traditional graphic design. Other study topics include printmaking, life drawing, photography, branding and marketing.

• Improve employability with a curriculum designed with additional input by established design practitioners.
• Broaden your horizons with visits to insightful real-world projects.
• Access to an international virtual classroom with world-class lecturers.
• An industry internship programme that provides students with real-life industry practice and the ability to develop networks for employment opportunities.

Programme Structure

Programme can be completed in 3 Years (Inclusive of internship).

Year 1

The first-year challenges students to explore diverse approaches to design problems and apply their creative skills in different ways. It will also challenge any preconceptions that students may have about Graphic Design. During the first year, students will also learn many of the essential skills needed to work in Graphic Design.

Subjects include:
• Graphic Design Principles Part 1
• Graphic Design Principles Part 2
• Graphic Design Practice Part 1
• Graphic Design Practice Part 2

Electives:
• Advertising Design
• Typography

Learning focus:
• Adobe graphic design software
• Concept mapping and research methods
• Exploring frames into moving graphics
• Grid systems and structures
• Photography and printing methods
• 3D printing and laser cutting

Year 2

In the second year, design projects are often company-sponsored, and involve working directly with the client (Live projects). The subjects will help students meet this challenge and develop their skills and knowledge to a professional level. Other projects involve working to a national or international design brief. In this case, students need to demonstrate the ability to communicate their design ideas professionally, using a variety of media and techniques.

Subjects include:
• Graphic Design in Context Part 1
• Graphic Design in Context Part 2
• Graphic Design in Production Part 1
• Graphic Design in Production Part 2

Learning focus:
• Envisioning information and data visualisation
• Design theory and divergent thinking
• Design, sign and symbol
• Shaping the page and digital publication
• Image making and character design
• Embroidery and fabric printing

Year 3

Through a process of research and discussion with academic staff, students determine a body of self-directed study that allows them to develop a personal area of interest related to the field of Graphic Design. By taking increased responsibility for the management of their own work, students are prepared for life as a professional designer. The number and content of the projects students undertake in the third year can be negotiated. However, the academic team will offer advice that enables students to develop a portfolio that best supports their career aspirations. It is also essential that students support their dissertations and design projects with a body of thorough and convincing research and development.

Subjects include:
• Graduation Projects Part 1
• Graduation Projects Part 2
• Professional Practice (Graphic Design)

Industry attachment (Compulsory)
• Industry Placement (Graphic Design)

Learning focus:
• Demonstrate increasing autonomy, professionalism and critical awareness
• Statement of intent and annotated bibliography
• Critical contexts writing and research inquiry
• Portfolio building and self-branding
• Independent proposal project and external/live brief

MPU subjects

• Bahasa Kebangsaan A*/Design Thinking
• Corporate Social Responsibility and Community Engagement
• Integrity and Anti-Corruption
• Appreciation of Ethics and Civilisations (Local students) / Communicating in Malay 2 (International students)
• Philosophy and Current Issues

Career Opportunities

Explore your career possibilities.

You can launch your career in one of these fields:

• Art Director
• Creative Director
• Drafter (Architecture and Engineering)
• Film and Video Editor
• Graphic Designer
• Industrial/Product Designer
• Multimedia Artist/Animator
•  

Additional information

This syllabus has been designed to meet the requirements of professional bodies while giving students the competitive edge.

Students will focus on generating new and memorable ideas that form the basis of their creative process. They will explore a range of media, develop critical skills, and learn how to solve problems creatively.

Students will also have the opportunity to enhance their prospects by taking part in international competitions, live briefs and work placements. There are also residential study trips at home and abroad, complemented by visits to design conferences and professional design association events.

Entry Requirements

Requirements depend on your entry level. Expand for more details.

Candidates without an art subject or who do not have a credit in Art must Pass Portfolio Review or Art Test conducted by the College.

English Requirements

Note: International students are subject to meet entry requirements that reflect similar qualifications and experience as stated above.
To find country-specific entry requirements visit our international entry requirement page.

STUDENT PASS / VISA REQUIREMENTS (INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS)

All international students who plan to study full-time in Malaysia are required to obtain a Student Pass (Student Visa) before starting their studies.

• You must receive an official Offer Letter from the university before applying for a student pass

• The university will submit your Student Pass application through Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS) on your behalf

• A Visa Approval Letter (VAL / eVAL) is required before travelling to Malaysia

• Studying on a tourist or social visit visa is not permitted

• Your passport must be valid for at least 18 months from your intended intake date

• Visa processing time depends on EMGS and Malaysian Immigration approval

• After arriving in Malaysia, all students must complete a medical check-up at an EMGS-registered clinic

• Your Student Pass will be issued only after medical clearance and document verification

• Continuing students must renew their Student Pass before it expires

DOCUMENTS REQUIRED FOR STUDENT PASS APPLICATION

The following documents are commonly required for all international students:

• Valid passport (clear scanned copy of all pages, including blank pages)

• Passport-size photograph with a white background

• Official Offer Letter from the university

• Academic certificates and transcripts related to your programme

• English language proficiency certificate (IELTS / TOEFL or equivalent), if required

• Proof of acceptance or tuition fee payment (if requested by the university)

• Student Pass / Visa processing fee as determined by EMGS

• Completed EMGS Health Declaration Form (if applicable)

Please note: All documents not originally in English must be submitted together with certified English translations.

ADDITIONAL DOCUMENTS (IF APPLICABLE)

Some students may be asked to provide extra documents depending on their situation:

• Release Letter and Visa Cancellation Letter (for students transferring from another institution in Malaysia)

• School Leaving Certificate (for foundation or diploma applicants)

• Sponsorship or Scholarship Letter (if your studies are funded)

• Proof of financial support to cover tuition fees and living expenses

• Statutory Declaration (if there are name differences across documents)

• Resume or Character Reference Letter (commonly required for applicants above 23 years old)

• Police Clearance Certificate (if requested by EMGS or embassy authorities)

• Copy of previous Malaysian visa or Resident Pass (if applicable)

AFTER ARRIVING IN MALAYSIA

Once you arrive in Malaysia, you will need to:

• Complete a medical examination at an EMGS-approved clinic

• Submit your passport for Student Pass Endorsement

• Receive a temporary Special Pass (if applicable) while your Student Pass is being processed

• Collect your Student Pass and complete university registration

IMPORTANT REMINDERS

• Student Pass requirements are set by Malaysian Immigration and EMGS and may vary by nationality
• The university’s International Office will guide you through each step of the process
• Students are strongly advised to prepare documents at least 2–3 months before intake
• Requirements may change, so always follow the latest instructions provided by the university