Visual Communication - University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland, Australia

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Visual Communication

USC’s industry-focused Visual Communication major prepares you to work as a professional designer. Learn how graphic designers create graphics that communicate messages and evoke responses through the use of colour, texture, typography, images and symbols.

This major allows you to experience all aspects of the design process, specialise in a particular field, or combine interests in layout design, advertising, photography, illustration or branding.

Learn the analytical and problem-solving skills you need to create dynamic ideas, using the theoretical principles and aesthetic design concepts that underpin good design. As part of your major, you will undertake industry projects and internships and create a professional portfolio to display in a shared graduate exhibition.

Career opportunities

Graphic designer, art director, creative director, advertising designer, book designer, illustrator, product designer, photographic editor.

Major (8)

For a major in Visual Communication (previously Graphic Design), students must successfully complete 8 courses:

CourseSemester of offerRequisites
DES101 Elements of Design
Sunshine Coast: Semester 1
Moreton Bay: Semester 1		 
DES105 Introduction to Design and Concept
Sunshine Coast: Semester 2
Moreton Bay: Semester 2
Caboolture: Semester 2		 
DES211 Visual Identity
Sunshine Coast: Semester 1
Moreton Bay: Semester 1		 
DES212 Visual Communication & Meaning
Sunshine Coast: Semester 2
Moreton Bay: Semester 2		 
DES305 Branding and Package Design
  • Semester 1
Anti: DES213
DES306 Art of Illustration and Design
  • Semester 1
Anti: DES214
DES309 Design Portfolio
  • Semester 2
Pre: Completed 192 units

PLUS select 1 course from:

CourseSemester of offerRequisites
CMN311 Industry Project 1: Communication, Creativity and Design
  • Semester 1, Semester 2
Pre: Completed 192 units
CMN312 Industry Internship 1: Communication, Creativity and Design
  • Semester 1, Semester 2
Pre: Course Coordinator Consent Required and Completed 192 units

Minor (4)

For a minor in Visual Communication (previously Graphic Design), students must successfully complete 4 courses:

CourseSemester of offerRequisites
DES105 Introduction to Design and Concept
Sunshine Coast: Semester 2
Moreton Bay: Semester 2
Caboolture: Semester 2		 
DES211 Visual Identity
Sunshine Coast: Semester 1
Moreton Bay: Semester 1		 
DES212 Visual Communication & Meaning
Sunshine Coast: Semester 2
Moreton Bay: Semester 2		 
DES305 Branding and Package Design
  • Semester 1
Anti: DES213