ACADEMIC PROGRAMS IN GRAPHIC DESIGN
Bachelor of Science Degree in Graphic Design
The graphic design program educates students in design methods, design theory, creative problem solving, and visual and verbal literacy. An emphasis is placed on visual components: how humans communicate, perceive, interpret, and understand visual information. The program fosters flexibility, which enables graduates to adapt to social, cultural, and technological change in graphic design. The program’s foundation is broadly based. Students begin with courses in fundamental aspects of visual studies. Upper division courses prepare them for graphic design positions in print and electronic media. An internship of 1-4 credits is required.
Graduate Program with an emphasis in design communication or interactive design
At the graduate level, there are two emphasis areas: design communication and interactive design.
If you are choosing to pursue an emphasis in design communication, the focus of your graduate work may include design theory, process, and methods related to design practice and research. Potential areas of study include multicultural communication, visual representation of information, human interaction with designed objects, social and cultural implications of design, color systems and perception, design history, and design education. Students and faculty collaboratively develop designed objects and information that will inform and enhance people's lives.
The graduate emphasis in interactive design will provide students with experience in designing for the electronic environment. The program integrates theory with practice in the application of emerging technologies and software to digital design solutions. Students in the program complete a capstone design project involving faculty and community mentors.