Graphic Design
About the B.F.A. in Graphic Design
The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design is intended to produce graduates versed in visual communications and graphic problem solving. The primary means by which we gather information is visual, and visual information works best if it is accessible and understandable. The graphic designer is responsible for crafting information visually so people can use it productively. From manuals and annual reports to packaging and Web sites, this field offers designers the opportunity to work in various print and electronic media, creating a variety of visual communications for different audiences. The program is a combination of practical and professional training with a broad background in historical, theoretical, and aesthetic issues, as well as critical thinking, creative problem solving, and new technologies.
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Art + Design Website
For Orientation
If you are attending New Student Orientation as a freshman you do not need to bring a portfolio. We do not evaluate non-college level work for incoming freshman. All AP credits will be evaluated by the Office of Degree Evaluation and do not require a portfolio review.
Students who are attempting to transfer credits for upper-level classes in any of the disciplines below should plan to bring a portfolio, as well as syllabi and course descriptions for those transfer classes. In addition, you may want to bring an additional copy of your transcript.
- Graphic Design
- Advertising Art Direction
- Illustration
- Interior Architecture
- Fine Art
- Product Design
Students who are attempting to transfer credits for upper-level classes in Art History should plan to bring course descriptions and syllabi for those courses.
2nd BA students who took art and design classes as part of their undergraduate degree should bring a copy of their transcripts along with a portfolio of their work.
We regret that we are unable to register any student for upper-level classes without an in-person portfolio review.
More Information on Transfer Policies
Recommended First-Semester Classes
We recommend you try and take 2-3 of the following classes in your first semester as a Graphic Design major:
- 22-1102 History of Art II: Renaissance to Modern or 22-1105 Introduction to Visual Culture
- 22-1220 Fundamentals of 2D Design OR 22-1230 Fundamentals of 3D Design
- 22-1210 Drawing I
- 23-1111 Foundations of Photography
