Higher Education Know-how

Visual Communication vs. Graphic Design: Become a Well-Rounded Designer! 

Have you ever been captivated by a stunning poster or moved by a unique logo? That's the power of successful visual communication design! And graphic design is the key tool for bringing visual communication to life. This article will explain the difference between the two! 

Visual Communication: The Art of Communication 

Visual communication uses visual elements like images, colours, text, and typography to convey information and ideas. It's a silent language that transcends cultural and linguistic barriers, speaking directly to the heart. It encompasses a broader scope, both static and dynamic, including graphic design, motion graphics, and interactive design. 

Graphic Design: The Practice of Visual Communication 

Graphic design is the process of making visual communication concepts tangible. It utilises various design principles and techniques to transform information into visual works, primarily static, such as posters, book designs, and packaging, communicating directly with the target audience. 

The Relationship Between ‘Visual Communication’ and ‘Graphic Design’ 

Visual communication design encompasses graphic design, but it also includes other non-static design disciplines. Graphic designers need a deep understanding of visual communication principles to create truly effective visual works. 

Applications and Career Development 

A career in visual communication design offers diverse opportunities. Let's explore the various areas a visual communication designer might work in and how they can help you become a well-rounded design professional! 

1. Brand Identity and Visual Identity Design
   This is the core of visual communication design, aiming to create a clear, consistent, and attractive brand image that leaves a lasting impression on the target audience. This includes logo design, brand colour palettes, typography selection and application, and brand guideline development.
2. Graphic Design Graphic design is the foundation of visual communication design, encompassing various static visual designs, such as poster design, print materials, flyer design, packaging design, and book/magazine layout design.
3. Web Design and Digital Media Design 
   With the digital age transformation, visual communication design has extended to the digital media realm. Web design, user interface (UI) and user experience (UX) design, interactive design, and social media visual design have become essential.
4. Motion Graphics Design
   Adding animation to static images can explain complex concepts or product functions, making designs more dynamic and engaging, capturing the audience's attention.
5. Illustration Design
   Creating images using drawing techniques isn't just for character design in games and animation. In commercial applications, illustration can also enhance product appeal.
6. Environmental Graphic Design
   Environmental graphic design aims to enhance the visual appeal and user experience of spaces. Examples include signage (Signage System Design) seen in everyday life, exhibition design, and public art installations.

How Can a Visual Communication Design Course Help You Master Both? 

Our Higher Diploma in Visual Communication programme will take you on an in-depth exploration of the world of visual communication and design, equipping you with: 

• Core Theories of Visual Communication: Understand how to effectively use visual elements to convey information, training students to master professional design skills and thinking methods. 

• Design Skills and Applications: Master design principles and various industry-standard design software, such as Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, Adobe Premiere, and 3D Studio Max. 

• Design Practice in Different Fields: Accumulate diverse design experience through participation in various activities, such as community mural creation, commercial projects, and overseas exchanges, enhancing your employability. 

HKCT provides ‘Visual Communication’ programmes:  

Higher Diploma in Creative Design and Media (Visual Communication) * 

Diploma in Creative Design (Visual Communication) ^ 

*This programme is subsidised under Study Subsidy Scheme for Designated Professions/Sectors (SSSDP). HKCT offers the lowest tuition fee after deduction of SSSDP maximum subsidy when comparing with other institutions’ higher diploma programmes in the same discipline. 

^This course has been included in the list of reimbursable courses under Continuing Education Fund. 

Diploma in Creative Design (Visual Communication),CEF Course Code: 32L134322,Total Contact Hours: 450