How Loughborough's graphic design BA is shaping the industry's leaders

Loughborough University's BA (Hons) Graphic Design programme has long had a strong reputation. For instance, it's been ranked at the top end of the Guardian University Guide, year upon year. That's because the course emphasises excellence in visual communication across diverse disciplines, while embedding hard design thinking at its core.

This means Loughborough students gain hands-on experience in applying design principles to real-world scenarios, equipping them with the problem-solving skills and strategic insight demanded by employers.

And its ability to prepare students for industry is clear to see. Look, for example, at the 2024 D&AD New Blood Festival, where Loughborough's presence was impossible to ignore. More than 40 students exhibited their work this year, with several earning prestigious Pencil awards.

And that's not surprising, because the university has a strong track record of producing graduates who go on to shape the creative industry.

Strong track record

From Netflix series creators to magazine founders, global talent specialists to award-winning creative directors, Loughborough alumni can be found at the helm of some of the most innovative projects and organisations in the creative sector.

That success stems from the course's balanced approach to education, which combines technical excellence with creative exploration and industry relevance.

Students benefit from state-of-the-art facilities and guidance from experienced faculty who maintain strong connections with the industry. Best of all, this is a flexible degree that can be tailored to your interests—for example, in app development, animation, visual identity and branding, illustration, photography, typography and publishing, or graphic design in general.

To give you a sense of where Loughborough University's BA (Hons) Graphic Design can take you, let's look at some graduates who are making waves in today's creative industry.

1. Rory Cowan (class of 2018)

Currently a senior designer at Pearlfisher, following two years as a junior designer at The Calling, Rory Cowan's career trajectory shows the programme's renowned ability to produce industry-ready talent.

His career began while still at university when he established himself as a freelance designer and worked on branding, web design, and brand strategy. He later became a D&AD New Blood Graphite Pencil winner and won an internship with The Walt Disney Company, where he championed sustainable packaging initiatives.

2. Sammy Ruskin (class of 2023)

One of the programme's most recent success stories is Sammy Ruskin, who has secured a position as a designer with The Sidemen. If that doesn't instantly make you go 'Wow!', then you should know that this group are Britain's most influential YouTubers today, with over 138 million combined subscribers.

Working with KSI, Miniminter, Zerkaa and Behzinga places Sammy at the forefront of digital content creation in the second half of the 2020s. Her ability to apply traditional design principles to modern media formats beautifully demonstrates how Loughborough graduates are equipped to thrive in the rapidly evolving digital landscape.

3. Luke Pearson (class of 2010)

Luke Pearson is an illustrator with an impressive client roster that includes The New Yorker, The New York Times, Penguin, and Disney Television Animation. But he's best known as the creator of Hilda, which has grown from an acclaimed graphic novel series into a global entertainment phenomenon.

Set in a whimsical world inspired by Nordic folklore, it follows the adventures of a fearless blue-haired girl who moves from the wilderness to the city of Trolberg. Since its Netflix debut in 2018, Hilda has garnered global acclaim, winning both a BAFTA and an Emmy.

Luke has also contributed to other animated series, including Adventure Time, and his comic work includes the celebrated 'Everything We Miss'.

4. Rachel Wells (class of 2010)

A BIMA 100 honouree and recognised as one of the industry's leading figures, Rachel Wells currently heads brand and creative at Not On The High Street. She was previously executive creative director at MullenLowe Group, where she led award-winning work for global brands including Nutella, NHS, and Wagamama.

Rachel is particularly noted for her leadership in digital innovation and team development, championing inclusivity and diversity in creative environments. Her 14-year journey through the industry has seen her shape exceptional brand experiences for clients, including Mars, Unilever and HSBC. She continues to judge major industry awards, including Creative Circle, D&AD and Campaign Big.

5. Caroline Paris (class of 2008)

Caroline Paris, group creative director at Saatchi & Saatchi, has been named a Female Frontier by Campaign magazine for leadership. Her portfolio includes innovative campaigns for LEGO, Netflix, and P&G.

Beyond her creative work, she actively mentors new talent through the School of Communication Arts and advocates for equal opportunities in the industry. With over 15 years of experience, Paris has become known for creating social-first and integrated campaigns that push creative boundaries. Her commitment to nurturing new talent and supporting initiatives like the YCN Placement Poverty Pledge demonstrates her dedication to making the creative industry more accessible to diverse talent.

6. Matt Rock (class of 2001)

As global executive talent specialist for the Technicolor Group, Matt Rock has played a crucial role in shaping the contemporary visual effects industry. His work includes numerous blockbuster films, including Blade Runner 2049, The Lion King, and Justice League.

Matt's career demonstrates how Loughborough graduates can influence the entertainment industry beyond traditional graphic design roles. Since 2007, he's been instrumental in building global executive teams across computer games, VFX and animated features and has been involved in projects as diverse as Sonic the Hedgehog, 1917 and The Shape of Water.

7. Paul Willoughby (class of 2001)

As co-founder of creative agency Human After All and former creative director of Little White Lies magazine, Paul Willoughby has done a lot to shape the visual culture that surrounds us today. His illustration work spans publications such as The Guardian, The Financial Times, and The New Yorker, alongside major brands such as Nike and Adidas. He has also shared his expertise through Guardian Masterclasses.

Paul's influence extends beyond commercial work through his role overseeing Weapons of Reason magazine and his contribution to developing innovative approaches to editorial design. His career exemplifies how strong foundational skills can evolve into pioneering creative leadership.

Study graphic design at Loughborough!

The message is clear: if you're looking to study graphic design, Loughborough is the place to be. With its blend of academic excellence, industry recognition and proven track record of producing successful graduates, this university offers everything you need to succeed.

For more information about the programme and how to apply, visit Loughborough University's website or attend one of their regular open days to experience the creative environment firsthand.