The Graphic Design major is a professional program that addresses the wide variety of design applications in print and digital media. Students will encounter a diverse and substantive experience in the range of design activity for the contemporary knowledge economy. Students graduating from the program pursue careers in graphic design nationally in a broad range of applications or continue their education in MFA programs.
The program provides a solid foundation of traditional and emergent creative expressions. Students will be introduced to design methods and principles to develop their ability to be personally engaged, economically viable and professionally relevant. The core graphic design curriculum stresses competencies in research, ideation, analysis and articulation, aesthetics, design theory, productivity, and the application of technology, necessary for personal expression or professional practice. Instruction throughout emphasizes and promotes social responsibility, diversity, and inclusion.
All graphic design students should expect a creative and collaborative environment built upon the experience of a faculty of practicing designers and design educators. Limited enrollment and class sizes ensure an intense and individualized course of study. The department's dedicated state-of-the-art facilities include classroom and production spaces built and equipped to facilitate instruction and invention with traditional and digital media. The program strongly encourages and supports critical interaction with the design community through lectures, workshops, internships, and professional memberships.
Program Highlights
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All graphic design students can expect a creative environment built upon the experience of a faculty of practicing designers and design educators.
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Our dedicated state of the art facilities includes classroom and production spaces built and equipped to facilitate instruction and invention with print and digital media.
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The graphic design faculty have extensive experience teaching in higher education within the discipline of graphic design.
Careers
Check out these ideas from 51Ç鱨վ's Center for Career & Leadership Development and the . A median salary is a midpoint of what people typically earn—half of those surveyed earned above the median salary, and half earned below.
Graphic Designers
Design or create graphics to meet specific commercial or promotional needs, such as packaging, displays, or logos. May use a variety of mediums to achieve artistic or decorative effects.
Film and Video Editors
Edit moving images on film, video, or other media. May edit or synchronize soundtracks with images.
Art Directors
Formulate design concepts and presentation approaches for visual communications media, such as print, broadcasting, and advertising. Direct workers engaged in art work or layout design.
Multimedia Artists and Animators
Create special effects, animation, or other visual images using film, video, computers, or other electronic tools and media for use in products or creations, such as computer games, movies, music videos, and commercials.
Requirements
Students seeking admission into the Graphic Design program must successfully complete required foundational art studio and graphic design coursework. Students must apply to the Department-wide review to assess their abilities to date and provide program faculty feedback on their progress.
Transfer
At 51Ç鱨վ, we understand that as a transfer student you have unique needs that require a wide array of campus resources. The Center for Advising Administration and Academic Partnerships aims to create a transfer inclusive culture that supports the successful...
Cost
Estimated rates for the 2024-25 academic year. Rates are subject to change. Anyone that is not a current Virginia resident will be charged non-resident rates. That includes international students.
Ways to Save
Here are a few ways for you to save on the cost of attending 51Ç鱨վ. For more information visit University Student Financial Aid.
Robert McCullough Prize
The Robert McCullough Prize is a cash award endowed yearly to an exceptional Graphic Design student, regardless of class standing (graduating seniors may apply). The Prize was established in memory of Robert McCullough, longtime Art Department faculty member and founder of the Graphic Design program.
Next Steps
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