* Research and analysis of the origins and historical development of symbols, symbol systems and other visual codes and their significance and influence on contemporary symbols, trademarks, logotypes and the visual identity of commercial brands.

* The development of the phonetic alphabet- letterforms, writing and typefaces will be equally examined with particular reference to the impact of technological developments such as the printing press, mass media reproduction and the digital revolution.

* Students will demonstrate their knowledge through the research, design and presentation of an aspect of visible language selected from a limited number of design projects briefed in class.