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Accessibility statement
An image to illustrate the BA (Honours) Visual Communications
This versatile online degree explores a wide range of visual practices, from graphic design and typography to illustration and animation. You'll develop your unique creative voice while learning to communicate effectively across various media. With guidance from industry professionals, you'll build a diverse skill set that prepares you for a dynamic career in visual creativity. The flexible distance learning format allows you to balance your studies with other commitments, making it ideal for aspiring designers and illustrators.
Key features:
Course highlights:

This honours degree in visual communication has three stages, each comprising 120 credits.
Stage 1 (120 credits)
You'll begin by exploring fundamental concepts in visual communication, learning to analyse briefs, generate ideas, and develop your creative process. Throughout this stage, you'll experiment with various visual languages, from illustration to design thinking, while building core skills in areas such as drawing and digital media. You'll also start to explore the integration of typography and visual elements within layouts, examining the role of graphic design in identity and branding. This foundational stage will help you discover your strengths and interests, setting the stage for more specialised study.
Stage 2 (120 credits)
Building on Stage 1, you'll deepen your understanding of visual language and refine your critical skills. You'll explore advanced topics like typography, branding, and narrative illustration, engaging with contemporary contexts for visual communication. Throughout this stage, you'll have the opportunity to specialise in areas that align with your interests, such as book design, comics, or digital media. You'll also undertake a self-directed project in a professional context, allowing you to apply your skills to real-world scenarios and begin developing your unique style.
Stage 3 (120 credits)
In this final stage, you'll take creative control of your learning through self-directed projects that showcase your unique style and vision. You'll synthesise your skills and research interests to produce a substantial body of work, demonstrating your ability to tackle complex visual communication challenges. Throughout this stage, you'll develop a professional approach to your practice, creating a portfolio demonstrating your readiness for a career in visual communications. You'll also have the opportunity to explore how your work can impact the wider world, considering issues such as sustainability and social responsibility in design.
This open-access degree welcomes students from all backgrounds. No formal qualifications are required – just bring your passion for visual arts and willingness to learn. You'll need basic IT skills, a reliable internet connection, and English language proficiency equivalent to CEFR B2 to engage fully with the course.
This online course is available through our college dedicated to the creative arts, the Open College of the Arts.
The Open College of the Arts (OCA) logo
This degree is delivered by The Open University's Open College of the Arts.
To explore this course in detail, including entry requirements, fees and funding options, and how to apply, visit the Open College of the Arts website.
This online course is available through our college dedicated to the creative arts, the Open College of the Arts.
The Open College of the Arts (OCA) logo
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