The MA Communication Design course at University of Southampton prompts students to explore the latest visual communication methods while considering pressing societal issues.

Through practice-led research and critical inquiry, MA Communication Design students rethink the role of communication design in our digital, interconnected age.

This programme positions communication design as a dynamic and evolving field, where creativity intersects with user experience, digital publishing and technological innovation. It encourages students to develop an informed, experimental practice that responds to today's complex visual and informational landscape.

Through hands-on experimentation, speculative methods, and collaborative projects, students are supported in developing new tools, platforms and narratives that challenge established norms of communication and visual culture.

This one-year full-time course combines studio-based learning with theoretical exploration, blending disciplines such as creative coding, interface design, and hybrid publishing. From prototyping to critical making, students are immersed in contemporary methods of design thinking and media production.

The programme is led by visual artist and designer Danny Aldred, alongside a team of international practitioners and educators with expertise in graphic design, interaction design and experimental media. With access to cutting-edge facilities and opportunities for fieldwork in the UK and Europe, students are empowered to build an ambitious, forward-thinking design practice rooted in research, experimentation and social engagement.

School: Winchester School of Art, University of Southampton
Course: Master of Arts in Communication Design
Type: Postgraduate
Location: Winchester, UK
Course dates: October 2026 to September 2027
Application deadline: International applications: 29 July 2026, UK applications: 9 September 2026

Find out more about the course and apply ›

What will I learn during this course?

– Experimental publishing, interface design, creative coding and interaction design
– Research skills through a practice-led thesis module
– Concept development and prototyping for emerging communication platforms
– Critical and creative engagement with contemporary media and design theory

What are the requirements?

– University-level bachelor's degree in design, visual communication or a related field
– Submission of a portfolio demonstrating creative and technical skills
– Statement of interest outlining your goals in communication design and areas of research

What facilities and resources are available?

– Interaction and Prototyping Laboratory, studios for digital media and print, laser cutting and 3D printing
– Access to workshops, seminars and guest lectures by leading designers and researchers
– Digital and physical resources to support experimental and interdisciplinary practices
– Students have access to studios, labs and collaborative spaces to create, prototype and exhibit work

What career prospects can I expect upon graduating?

Graduates of the MA Communication Design programme are equipped for careers in UX/UI design, editorial and digital publishing, interaction design, creative direction and visual research.

The programme also prepares students for roles in creative technology, media innovation and academic or practice-based research, enabling them to lead or contribute to interdisciplinary projects across cultural, commercial and civic sectors.

Who teaches this course?

– Danny Aldred, course lead
– Andy Lapham, interaction and digital media tutor

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