2026/27 Taught Postgraduate Module Catalogue

DESN5173M Graphic, Typographic and Colour Design

30 Credits Class Size: 50

Module manager: Yuchan Zhang
Email: y.zhang15@leeds.ac.uk

Taught: Semester 2 (Jan to Jun) View Timetable

Year running 2026/27

This module is not approved as an Elective

Module summary

This module introduces theories and principles of Graphic, Typographic and Colour Design and discusses how they can be used to create the most effective human-centred design solutions. Good use of typography, graphic elements and colour help reach wider audiences by communicating engaging messages clearly and effectively. Areas covered by Graphic, Typographic and Colour Design include: editorial design, experimental typography, colour in marketing, branding, packaging, poster design, advertising, illustration, photography, storytelling, etc.

Objectives

The aim of this module is to expose students to fundamental principles of graphic communication to be able to deliver effective and engaging design solutions:
· Learn theoretical and practical perspectives regarding Graphic, Typographic and Colour Design.
· Explore the inter-disciplinary nature of Graphic, Typographic and Colour Design in a variety of contexts – healthcare, education, business, public sector, etc.
· Address the specific needs and motivations of Graphic, Typographic and Colour Design users by developing creative and effective design solutions.

Learning outcomes

On completion of this module, students will have provided evidence of being able to:
1. Analyse and interpret current challenges, theories and principles of Graphic, Typographic and Colour Design in order to define a problem or need.
2. Access and critically analyse literature, and plan appropriate research methods for the successful development of a design project.
3. Design and develop effective and visually stimulating design solutions in response to a specific brief, problem and need.
4. Contribute to the implementation and execution of a project to a professional and commercial standard.

Skills Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following skills learning outcomes:
5. Evaluate and use appropriate and relevant information to strengthen the quality of their work and their responses to various visual communication problems.

Syllabus

This module will deliver a combination of lectures and practical sessions. Lectures will engage students with the theory, research and professional approaches to Graphic, Typographic and Colour Design. The lecture content will be built around (and inform) each stage of the research and design process. Practicals will give students the opportunity to put their knowledge and theory into practice by planning, designing, developing and evaluating their creative project, as well as their research.

Teaching Methods

Delivery type Number Length hours Student hours
Lecture 11 1 11
Practical 10 3 30
Private study hours 259
Total Contact hours 41
Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) 300

Opportunities for Formative Feedback

· Formative feedback will be provided during practical sessions.
· Formal presentation followed with formative feedback around week 21 (for live briefs with industry/stakeholders).

Methods of Assessment

Coursework
Assessment type Notes % of formal assessment
Portfolio Portfolio 100
Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) 100

Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated

Reading List

Check the module area in Minerva for your reading list

Last updated: 30/04/2026

Errors, omissions, failed links etc should be notified to the Catalogue Team