Introduction

Graphic design is a powerful force shaping the cultural and economic landscape of the 21st century. This programme prepares you to thrive as an idea-driven, sustainable, and adaptable designer. Student will develop the skills to use design as a tool for innovation, problem-solving, and driving positive change in an increasingly digital and globalized world.

Programme Features

Career-Oriented Curriculum
This design programme immerses you in a professional studio environment, equipping you with the critical skills and real-world experience needed to thrive in your future career. You will have access to industry-standard facilities and work on projects that mirror the challenges and workflows of leading design studios and agencies.

Diverse Career Pathways
The role of the contemporary graphic designer has evolved significantly, expanding beyond traditional studio work. As a graduate, you'll be prepared to pursue a wide range of fulfilling career paths - from graphic design and art direction to digital design, curation, publishing, education, and beyond. The versatile skillset you develop will enable you to contribute as a designer, collaborator, and innovator across a diverse array of studios, companies, and creative industries.


Modules^

Preparation for Extended Study in Graphic Design

This module is designed to give you the opportunity to define a short programme of study on a self-initiated basis in preparation for the major “Extended Study in Graphic Design” module. You will learn through experience how to identify and articulate personal aims and how to plan and manage a period of self-directed work. It also requires you to focus on the relationship of your design ideas/interests to individual career aspirations.

Independent Research Project

Students design and produce a research project that develops a specialised interest in contemporary critical debates and contexts for contemporary creative production.  There will be workshops and lectures to support you in developing your ideas, designing and implementing research projects, and provide guidance on independent study. Supervision tutorials will support your on-going research, critical reading and writing.

Professional Practice and Work Experience in Graphic Design 3

In this module, you are required to develop a substantial and coherent body of work that reflects individual interests, intentions and ambitions within the context of Graphic Design, synthesising the use of making and materials in relation to personally generated studio practice. You will need to plan, manage and present your body of work to a professional standard.

Extended Study in Graphic Design

This module enables you to consolidate your knowledge and understanding of your area of practice in relation to the professional context, and develop strategies for graduation and progression to employment or further studies. The module is designed to contribute to the refinement of your contextual understanding of your discipline, and enable you to focus this towards identified personal career aspirations and the opportunities offered, directly and indirectly, by the industry.

^ Under review and subject to change

Assessment

Portfolios and project(s)

QF Level

QF Level : Level 5 QR Registration No. : 23/000496/L5 Validity Period : 01/09/2023 - 31/08/2027

Importance of choosing a non-local top-up with QF Level 5 Employment Degree qualifications pitched at QF Level 5 are formally recognised by the HKSAR Government for employment purposes within the Civil Service for graduate posts. Further Studies Having been recognised at QF Level 5, this top-up degree programme meets the standard of locally-accredited bachelor's degree programmes.  Upon graduation, students can pursue their further studies at Master’s degree level in Hong Kong or Oveseas. Financial Assistance and Scholarships Various HKSAR Government financial assistance schemes and scholarships are only made available to eligible students enrolled into programmes with QF recognition.

Entry Requirements

Holders of the following VTC Higher Diploma programmes:

• HD in Advertising Design  
• HD in Visual Communication

OR

Holders of Higher Diploma or Associate Degree or equivalent qualifications in relevant areas awarded by recognised institutions will also be considered. Admission to the Programme will also be subject to a review of the applicant’s portfolio of work and an admission interview.

English Proficiency Requirements

• Applicants successfully completed a Higher Diploma or an Associate Degree taught and assessed in English from a recognised institution in Hong Kong or equivalent.

OR

• At least an overall IELTS score of 6.5 with 5.5 in each component, or an overall IELTS score of 6.0 with 6.0 in each component, or equivalent.

Career Prospects

The role of the graphic designer in society and the professional world is multifaceted. Graduates can become go on successful careers as graphic designers, art directors, digital designers, or related roles, such as  curator, author, craftsperson, editor, educator, collaborator,  and agitator, and account managers for a range of studios and companies.
 

Fees 

•  Application Fee : HK$200 (No application fee before the deadline!)
• Registration Fee : HK$3,500
• Tuition Fee : HK$95,550 by 2 instalments

Scholarships

A variety of attractive scholarships are available to current and graduating SHAPE students.

"SHAPE programme provides me with the learning resources and equipment I need to explore and develop my design skills. During my studies at SHAPE, I found myself most interested and engaged in the topic of research and concept development, which enabled me to conduct project-based research, analyze and edit design content, and rigorously test possible forms, materials, and production processes. SHAPE has supported me tremendously throughout my learning journey and the programme has enhanced my knowledge, broadened my horizons, and laid a solid foundation for me to become a designer in the future." Lee Man Hing BA (Hons) Graphic Design HKSAR Government Talent Development Scholarship 2023-24

Financial Aids 

The following HKSAR Government financial assistance schemes are available to eligible students who pursue this programme at SHAPE:

Financial Assistance Schemes		Amount (HK$)
	Non-means-tested Subsidy Scheme (NMTSS)	Up to $34,390 per year  [AY2024/25]
	Financial Assistance Scheme for Post-secondary Students (FASP)	Up to $93,130 (Tuition fee grant) Up to $9,010 (Academic expenses grant) Up to 58,890 (Living expenses loan) [AY2024/25]
	Non-means-tested Loan Scheme for Post-secondary Students (NLSPS)	Up to the annual tuition fees payable in the academic year

For details including eligibility and subsidy amount, please refer to the hyperlink of each scheme.

Enquiries

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