Graphic Design

The Bachelor of Fine Arts in graphic design enables students to achieve proficiency in the principles and practices utilized by professional designers and affiliated industries. Through the study of art theory, art history and historic and contemporary art, students gain knowledge of design genres and systems of thought. Emphasis is on development of the concepts and skills related to graphic design and the development of a personal artistic idiom. Students will learn to use research practices effectively and to discuss the development of their work in speech and in writing.

Before Graduating Students Must

• Pass a particular test, a final project, a term paper and/or a portfolio, as determined by a particular major.
• Pass a senior-level capstone course that includes a portfolio exhibition of the student’s work, evaluated by appropriate faculty.
• Complete requirements for the baccalaureate degree, as determined by faculty.

Skills Students will Acquire in the Major (SLOs)

1. Design visual form in response to communication problems.
2. Exhibit principles of visual organization/composition, information hierarchy, symbolic representation, typography, aesthetics and the construction of meaningful images.
3. Exhibit appropriate use tools and technology, including their roles in the creation, reproduction and distribution of visual messages.
4. Exhibit the ability to describe and respond to the audiences and contexts which communication solutions must address, including recognition of the physical, cognitive, cultural and social human factors that shape design decisions.
5. Produce solutions to communication problems, including the skills of problem identification, research and information gathering, analysis, generation of alternative solutions, prototyping and evaluation of outcomes.

Curriculum Map

I = Introduced; R = Reinforced; A = Assessed

Assessment Types

• Portfolio