Graphic Design Major

The graphic design major prepares students to be professional graphic designers educated in the design process and proficient in modern design technologies. With the inclusion of a liberal arts education, this degree provides students with a well-rounded, versatile interdisciplinary learning experience. Students are equipped with professional, practical, and business-oriented skills while becoming knowledgeable in design thinking as a means of identifying problems and creating possible solutions. The degree gives students the opportunity to look at design from multiple perspectives to meet the needs of clients and audiences while also being culturally and socially aware in all aspects of their work. Students graduating with this major can move directly into employment in the graphic design field. Alternatively, students may wish to specialize further by pursuing an advanced degree.

Graphic Design Learning Outcomes

With the completion of this degree program, the following learning outcomes can be expected:

• Students will analyze and critique underlying aesthetic principles, including the elements of design and principles of organization, and thematic content (social, political, historical, etc.) of works of art.
• Students will create and exhibit a body of work that synthesizes technical skills, individual artistic expression, and relevant content.
• Students will demonstrate the technical and interpersonal skills required to produce effective communication materials using Adobe Creative Suite.
• Students will apply concept development, workflow, and design principles in the development of work that successfully respond to clients’ visual communication needs.