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Part-time, 2 years
Why choose this course
- Designed to fit around your professional commitments
- Learn how AI can support your creative decisions and workflows
- Realistic projects, live projects and design sector competitions
- All sessions are recorded in case you cannot attend
- Roles include Creative Director, Brand Strategist and UX/UI Designer
Overview
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.
Read the full overview
This flexible part-time programme has been carefully crafted to fit around your professional commitments, and 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.
The MA is delivered over 36 weeks (one day a week for five hours: 9.30-12.00 & 13.30-16.30).
All sessions are recorded to ensure students have access to the material if they are unable to attend.
Please view our MA information leaflets below by clicking on the image.
What you’ll study, year by year
6 modules
This course includes the following core modules that all students complete*:
Part-Time (2 Years)
Year 1
- GDBDS1: Foundations of Digital Design15 credits
- GDBDS2: User-Centred Design and Research15 credits
- GDBDS3: Ideation and Concept Development30 credits
- GDBDS4: Digital Strategy and Promotion30 credits
Year 2
- GDBDS5: Digital Dimensions (Field Study)30 credits
- GDBDS6: Major Project and Portfolio Showcase60 credits
*Occasional changes to modules and course content may take place. Students will be notified when applicable.
How you’ll learn
You’ll learn through lectures, live online sessions and workshops, with independent study in between.
- Lectures
- Live online sessions
- Workshops
- Group projects
- Online learning platform
- Discussion forums
- Independent study
- Research project supervision
Read more about how you’ll learn
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.
Meet us at an open event.
Where it can take you
Progression opportunities for graduates with the MA Graphic Design: Branding and Digital Strategy qualification include:
Potential roles include:
- Creative Director
- Brand Strategist
- Marketing Manager
- UX/UI Designer
- Digital Marketing Specialist
Read more about careers and progression
Continuing Education
Graduates may choose to pursue further academic qualifications such as a PhD in Graphic Design, Branding, Marketing, or other associated fields. This allows them to explore deeper into research or specialise in specific areas of interest within the field.
Career Advancement
With their advanced qualification, graduates can progress to higher-level positions within their current organisation or seek opportunities in larger companies or agencies.
Entrepreneurship
Some graduates may choose to start their own design or branding consultancy, leveraging their expertise and portfolio developed during the MA programme. Entrepreneurial opportunities include launching a design studio, branding or digital marketing agency.
Specialised Training Programmes
Graduates may opt for specialised training programmes or workshops to further enhance their skills in specific areas such as UX design, digital advertising, or branding strategy. These programmes can provide additional certifications and practical experience outside of the MA.
Networking and Professional Associations
Joining professional associations and networking groups within the digital design and marketing industries can provide valuable opportunities for career advancement, mentorship, and collaboration. Graduates can participate in events, conferences, and online communities to expand their professional network.
Partnerships with Industry
Collaborative and established strong connections with companies and agencies in the design and branding sector provides valuable opportunities for students to gain practical experience and secure employment after graduation.
Professional Development Workshops
Organised professional development workshops, seminars, and guest lectures featuring industry experts and thought leaders. These events will cover topics such as portfolio building, job search strategies, freelance business management, and entrepreneurship, equipping students with practical skills and knowledge to succeed in the design industry.
Found where you fit?
Entry requirements
Don’t have the standard qualifications? You may still be able to apply.
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:
- 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.
- Internships & Work Placements:Experience in marketing, communications, design, digital media, or brand strategy through internships at agencies, start-ups, or corporate settings.
- Freelance or Personal Projects:Independent branding, marketing, digital content creation, social media campaigns, or entrepreneurial projects that reflect strategic and creative thinking.
- 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.
- 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.
Taken a different path?
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
£4,095
a year for UK students
Financial support
A Postgraduate Master’s Loan can help with course fees and living costs while you study a postgraduate master’s course. Master’s Loan on GOV.UK.
We also have a range of other financial support available.
Additional costs
Your tuition fees cover most costs associated with your course (including registration, tuition, and assessment).
There may be some extra costs that you might need to make, or choose to pay, for example:
- Books (students will have access to books from their module reading lists in the HE virtual library, but they may want to buy their own copies).
- Trips and enhancement opportunities.
- Specialist Mac or PC desktop/laptop for working remotely.
Questions about funding?
Your next step
Apply now, come and see us first, or ask us anything.
What happens after you apply
1
You apply
Apply direct to us online, and we’ll reply by email.
2
You hear back
You’ll get an unconditional offer, a conditional offer, or an unsuccessful application.
3
You get ready to start
Before you enrol we’ll need photo ID and copies of your certificates. Apply for Student Finance early.
Quick reference for careers advisers
Level
Level 7
Duration
2 years
Study mode
Part-time
Awarding body
University of Hull