This course is aimed at applicants looking to be authors of their own practice. The course recognises the need for different voices and approaches. We are open to individual definitions of authorship, encouraging exploration and realisation of a singular perspective by providing a supportive and flexible approach to new modes of generating, presenting and disseminating work. This could encompass innovative uses of process or technology, the development of a signature style or an investigation into new models of working.

At the same time students are expected to examine their practice within a broader cultural context, considering the roles and responsibilities of a designer in relation to societal, environmental, and ethical issues. Whilst this may challenge and redefine existing boundaries, the primary concern of the course is to develop work that has integrity and autonomy.

The course is studio based, practice led, and underpinned by a theoretical framework that aims to promote lively, autonomous and reflective learners who have their own creative position on contemporary debates and society. Throughout the course students participate in individual and group tutorials and attend workshops with outside writers, designers, and artists. They develop skills through Personal Professional Development and on-line resources. Postgraduate talks introduce students to a range of visiting speakers whilst the in-house Graphic Design Communication lecture series offers the chance to hear current practitioners discussing their work.

Collaborative projects and workshops have been practiced with the Design Museum and E4. Workshops have been held with Dylan Kendal of Tomato, Billy Bragg of Le Gun magazine, Lizzie Finn, Jonathan Griffin ex Assistant Editor of Frieze magazine, Nick Roberts of Wordsalad and writer Anna Gerber.

Professional lecture series speakers have included leading graphic designers Nina Chakrabarti, Andy Altman (Why Not Associates). Andy Stevens (Graphic Thought Facility), Emma Thomas (APFEL); award winning video directors Dawn Shadforth and Nick Goffey (Dom and Nick); musicians including Barry 7(Add n to x) and Stephen Mallinder (Cabaret Voltaire) and a variety of practices as diverse as A2 Graphics, Mook and "Lee and Dan".

The course has three main phases:

Phase 1: Analysis of Practice and Exploration of Methodologies

Phase 2: Development and Consolidation

Phase 3: Resolution

These phases are set within a credit framework of three assessed units: Studio Practice, Advanced Studio Practice (which run sequentially), and Theoretical Studies, running throughout the course.

Studio practice involves evolving and developing a personal programme of studio work and related research. Theoretical Studies provides a framework from which you develop a critical research paper, enabling you to locate your ideas and practice in relation to contemporary debate on cultural and theoretical issues.

Throughout the course you participate in individual and group tutorials, develop skills through Personal Professional Development workshops and on-line resources, with postgraduate talks organised to introduce you to a range of visiting artists and practitioners.

We are committed to supporting you in developing the skills and knowledge necessary to continue your creative practice, and for future study or employment.

Recent graduates have exhibited work at The Courtauld Institute of Art, London, and been awarded a fellowship by the Royal Society of the Arts.

The course's focus is on practice, supporting students to be forward thinking about their application either on to professional practice or in pursuing research to the level of PhD.

• An Honours degree or equivalent academic / professional qualifications.
• Written study proposal.
• Selection of recent work.
• Applicants whose first language is not English must show proof of IELTS level 6.5 and a minimum of 5.5 in reading, listening, writing and speaking. The University also accepts other tests. Please see the University English tests page for the equivalent scores required in these tests.

The College takes into consideration prior learning, alternative qualifications and experience.

Please refer to the application form for guidance notes on the written study proposal and portfolio.

Did you know that the Chelsea College of Art & Design also teach Short Courses in Graphic Design and Communication?  Many postgraduate applicants use Short Courses to familiarise themselves with the College and use it as a refresher in education.  See the full range of Graphic Design and Communication Short Courses here.

How to Apply

Home/EU Applicants

CCW Graduate School Application Form

Guidelines for electronic submission                 

Completed forms, including your study proposal, reference & portfolio (if required) can be returned by post to:
CCW Graduate School Admissions
16 John Islip Street
London
SW1P 4JU

Or you can submit your form electronically to ccwgraduateschool@arts.ac.uk

International students
Please visit the CCW International Apply page to download an application form or contact the CCW International Office.
T: +44 (0)20 7514 1852
E: ccwinternational@arts.ac.uk

We are pleased to announce that international students applying to MA Graphic Design Communication may be eligible to receive a CCW international scholarship.  The scholarship will cover the full cost of the fees on this course for one student.  To find out more please visit our funding pages.

Application Deadlines
The deadline for applicants who will be applying to the AHRC (or other funding bodies): 1 March 2012
UK & EU applicants: 2 July 2012
International: No official deadline, but you are advised to apply as soon as possible.

What happens next?
Applications will be reviewed against the entry requirements and selection criteria for the course. You may then be invited to attend an interview at the College on a set day, with your full portfolio if applicable.

Details of any scholarships and bursaries will be posted on the Univeristy MA Funding page