School of Design

Graphic Design is one of the largest undergraduate programs in the School of Design. The BFA degree program, accredited through the National Association of Schools of Art and Design, is a professional program created to prepare students with the skills and knowledge necessary to become professional graphic designers. The program is intense, emphasizing visual problem solving, organizational skills, and theory. The curriculum focuses on typography, design theory, information design, identity systems, digital design, collaboration, and advanced design processes.

Learning outcomes

The Graphic Design program educates and trains problem solvers with essential skills in research, visual literacy, productivity and technology. Graduates are prepared to:

• Evaluate and critique the effectiveness of visual communication work
• Respond to problems by determining a unique perspective and appropriate visual solutions
• Develop a cohesive body of work targeting job opportunities in professional practice

Learning environment

Graphic Design majors work in dedicated studios within the FJ Taylor Visual Arts Center, where they have access to digital and traditional resources, as well as specialized areas for screenprinting and production. Faculty members assign projects ranging from book layout and posters to animation and websites. Advanced courses include information design, explorations in design thinking, professional practice, and more.

Curriculum

The Graphic Design curriculum builds a range of design experiences. Freshman start in Foundations learning the elements and principles of design, color theory, and drawing. Sophomores explore form, image, typography, and criticism. The Junior year begins with explorations in areas of digital design, visual systems and information design. In the Senior year, emphasis is placed on professional practice, with a range of electives available in specific areas of graphic design, culminating in a BFA Senior Exhibition.

Career opportunities

• Advertising
• Animator
• Art Director
• App Designer
• Book Designer
• Brand Identity Developer
• Corporate Designer
• Creative Director
• Designer for Public Relations/Marketing Firm
• Director of Advertising
• Graphic Designer
• Graphic Systems Manager
• Information Architect
• Layout Artist
• Letterer
• Marketing
• Magazine Designer
• Multimedia Designer
• Production Artist
• Project Manager
• Professor
• Staff Designer
• Television Graphic Designer
• UX/UI Designer
• Web Designer
• Web Developer