Major in Graphic Design

The Graphic Design Major is comprised of a 48-unit program of study, grounded within a broader liberal arts program. The primary goal is to expose students to the creative possibilities inherent in print, motion, and web design areas in preparation for entry into the professional, artistic, or graduate educational fields.

Classes focus on developing a strong foundation in design, craft, composition, typography, and concept development, drawing from a number of key areas including identity design, publication design, web design, motion graphics, printmaking, and fine arts. Along with the development of technical skills, students will acquire and exhibit abilities in critical and creative thinking, artistic innovation, and project planning and management.

Graphic Design outreach classes, external projects, and internships provide students with opportunities to work on innovative design-related projects for non-profit clients and within the University community. Recently, our students were responsible for design and production of all graphic materials, including official logo, for the University's 150th anniversary.

Opportunities for collaboration across other departments are encouraged, and electives may be selected from Media Studies, Communications, and Computer Science departments.

The Curriculum includes:

• A year-long chronological Art History survey sequence
• Seven required graphic design courses including:
• Introduction to Graphic Design
• Identity Design
• Design for the Web
• Graphic Design Outreach
• Two additional graphic design electives (choices include: Advanced Typographic Design, Design Internship/Directed Study, Motion Graphic, Design Portfolio, among others)
• Electives in Fine Arts (choices include: Printmaking, Photography, drawing, Painting, and others)
• Additional electives can be taken in Media Studies, Computer Science and Communication departments, including classes in Video Production and Advertising.

Requirements for the Major

The Major in Graphic Design requires 48 units, as follows:

Required Core Courses (16 units)

• VA - 101 Survey of Western Art History 1
• VA - 102 Survey of Western Art History 2
• VA - 120 Studio Systems
• VA - 210 Drawing 1

Required Graphics Design Courses (20 units)

• VA - 150 Introduction to Graphic Design
• VA - 252 Publication Design
• VA - 262 Identity Design
• VA - 365 Design for the Web
• VA - 385 Graphic Design Outreach

Graphic Design Electives (8 units, Choose a Minimum of 2)

• VA - 350 Advanced Typographic Systems
• VA - 355 Design Internship
• VA - 410 Motion Graphics
• VA - 460 Senior Design Project

Required Arts Elective (4 units, choose a minimum of 1)*

At least one course from Fine Arts or Arts Managment is required to fulfill the Required Arts Elective. It is recommended that Graphic Design majors take Photography or Printmaking, but students are free to take any other Fine Arts or Arts Management class to fulfill this requirement.