Graphic Design Thesis/Dissertation

White Light

When I return to college in September (i'm studying graphic design) I will be starting my thesis/dissertation.

Has anyone any ideas about how you approach one? How are the topics chosen and do write an argument or research a topic?

I'd especially be interested in someone who has experience in doing one for a graphic design course. Advice very much appreciated.

EtoinShrdlu

I did a thesis for my design degree (way back in the day). More recently I went back to college in 2010 to study an MA in Graphic Design, and part of the final submission at the end of the year was a Report and Visual Summary on my final project. Although the report & summary (separate items) were different to a thesis in that they were on the project I did rather than a separate subject I had to research, they seemed easier to write/research as they began with a question. I remember for my degree thesis I just seemed to pull together all the information I could find on the subject, and then put it all together in my own words. The MA report seemed more concise because it was focused on answering the question, which also made it easier to research.

It may not be possible, but if it is I’d base your thesis on a question – even if you don’t actually write the question in at the start. In my experience it keeps things on track even if the ‘answer’ wasn’t what you expected.

White Light

Thanks for the advice. I've decided to formulate an opinion/conclusion and then write 5000 words to back it up.

EtoinShrdlu

Good luck with it all!