Mar 28, 2024  
2020-2021 Catalog 
    
2020-2021 Catalog [ARCHIVED CATALOG]

Graphic Design, BA


The Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design program seeks to provide students an education in various aspects of visual communications, while encouraging them to experience other creative fields. Students should be able to create and develop visual responses to communication problems through an understanding of typography, composition, aesthetics, and construction of meaningful design solutions. Coursework introduces opportunities to identify communications problems, research, generate and analyze multiple solutions, and evaluate potential outcomes. Students may focus on graphic design in the context of a broader program of general studies, choosing to pursue a minor or a double major if appropriate.

Students may, if desired, choose an additional concentration in Publication Design or Web Design.

As a result of successfully completing program requirements, students should be able to:

  • describe, analyze, and interpret visual communications within social, historical and theoretical contexts;
  • utilize software for print, web, and new media and gain the ability to seek out new uses for emerging technologies;
  • use developed skills in typography, layout, and information design to create clear and dynamic visual communication solutions; and
  • apply primary and secondary research methods in the conceptualization and solution of design problems.

A grade of C or better is required in all major coursework.

For students who have already earned a Bachelor’s degree in another field, the Second Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design is available.

PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS - 48 credits required


CONCENTRATIONS


Graphic Design: Publication Design


This concentration introduces students to the processes and methods of publication design. By studying the identity of publications, students will learn how to create systems using unifying elements like typography, images, and illustrations.

Graphic Design: Website Design


In the Web Design concentration, students will have the opportunity to learn advanced methods for creating interactive digital content. Students will learn HTML, CSS, backend technologies, and content management systems, and they will practice by building digital products.