1. Programme Overview
The Diploma in Graphic Design equips students with the creative, technical, and conceptual skills required to thrive in today's dynamic creative industry. Combining design theory with practical application, the programme nurtures students' creativity while developing their ability to communicate ideas effectively through typography, illustration, photography, animation, digital media, and visual storytelling.
Students will gain hands-on experience through studio practice, real-life design projects, field trips, industry competitions, and practical training, preparing them to produce innovative visual solutions across print, digital, advertising, branding, and multimedia platforms.
This programme provides students with a strong foundation in:
- Graphic Design Principles
- Typography
- Illustration
- Photography
- Image Manipulation
- Advertising Design
- Corporate Identity & Branding
- Animation
- Web Design
- Multimedia & Video Editing
Upon successful completion of the programme, students may pursue careers in the creative industry or progress to related bachelor's degree programmes.
2. Programme Highlights
- Approved and accredited by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA).
- Develop creative and technical expertise in graphic design, branding, typography, illustration, photography, animation, and digital media.
- Gain practical industry experience through studio projects, portfolio development, field trips, industry competitions, and practical training.
- Master the complete design process from concept development and visual communication to final production.
- Build a professional design portfolio that showcases creativity, technical skills, and innovative thinking.
- Learn from experienced lecturers with strong industry and academic expertise.
- Prepare for rewarding careers across the creative, advertising, branding, multimedia, and digital design industries.
3. Why Study Graphic Design?
- Graphic designers play a vital role in shaping brands, communicating ideas, and creating engaging visual experiences across digital and print media.
- The rapid growth of digital marketing, social media, advertising, and multimedia has created increasing demand for skilled creative professionals.
- Students develop creativity, technical competency, communication, and problem-solving skills that are highly valued by employers.
- Practical studio learning, real-world projects, and portfolio development prepare graduates for successful careers in the creative industry.
- Graduates can continue their studies in Graphic Design, Design Communication, Advertising, Multimedia, or related creative disciplines.
4. Industry Relevance
Graphic Design continues to evolve with advancements in digital technology, multimedia, and visual communication. This programme equips students with industry-relevant knowledge and practical skills that meet current creative industry standards.
The programme incorporates current industry practices including:
- Graphic Design
- Corporate Branding
- Typography
- Illustration
- Photography
- Animation
- Web Design
- Video Editing
Students develop practical experience through studio-based learning, portfolio development, real-world projects, design competitions, and practical training, ensuring they are well-prepared for today's creative industries.
5. Progression Opportunities
Upon successful completion of the programme, students may progress to related bachelor's degree programmes, including:
- BA (Hons) Design Communication (advanced entry into Sunway University, subject to entry requirements)
- BA (Hons) Communication
- BA (Hons) Digital Film Production
- BA (Hons) Advertising & Branding
Students may also pursue further studies at other recognised higher education institutions.
6. Career Opportunities
Graduates may pursue careers as:
- Graphic Designer
- Advertising Designer
- Illustrator
- Animator
- Photographer
- Social Media Designer
- Web & Multimedia Designer
- Visual Effects Designer
- Art Director
- Illustration Artist
Intake
January, April & August
Duration
2 Years 6 Months (Inclusive of Practical Training)
Assessments
Continuous Assessment & Final Examination
Entry Requirements
SPM / O Level: Pass with a minimum of 3 credits and pass a Portfolio Review conducted by Sunway College Ipoh.
UEC: Pass with a minimum of 3 Grade Bs and pass a Portfolio Review conducted by Sunway College Ipoh.
SKM: Pass a Sijil Kemahiran Malaysia (SKM) Level 3 or Certificate (Level 3, MQF) in a related field with a minimum CGPA of 2.00, together with a successful Portfolio Review.
Other equivalent qualifications recognised by the Malaysian Government.
Programme Structure
Year 1
- Life Drawing
- Creative Studies
- Basic Computer Graphics
- Art and Design History
- English for Business Communications
- The Entrepreneur
- Basic Photography
- Principles of Design
- Image Manipulation
- Figure Drawing
- Packaging
- Illustration
- Principles of Advertising
- Typography
Year 2
- Electronic Publishing
- Critical Thinking
- Advanced Photography
- Corporate Identity
- Communication Studies
- Animation
- Art Direction & Storyboarding
- Web Design
- Advertising Design
- Professional Studies & Portfolio Development
- Video Editing
- Final Project
Year 3
Additional MOHE Compulsory General Studies Subjects
Local Students
- Philosophy and Current Issues
- Bahasa Kebangsaan A (applicable to students who did not sit for SPM or did not obtain a Credit in SPM Bahasa Melayu) OR Study Skills (for students who obtained a Credit in SPM Bahasa Melayu)
- Integrity & Anti-Corruption
- Community Service Learning
International Students
- Bahasa Melayu Komunikasi 1
- Study Skills
- Integrity & Anti-Corruption
- Community Service Learning
