Graphic Design (B.F.A.)

Student Success Advisor(s)

Sample Degree Plan

Program Learning Outcomes

• Learn to analyze works of art/design perceptively and to evaluate them critically.
• Develop the ability to plan the design process and construct narratives and scenarios for describing user experiences, and present work that demonstrates perceptual acuity, conceptual understanding and technical facility at a professional entry level in their chosen field(s).
• Develop fluency in the use of the formal vocabulary and concepts of design-including content, elements, structure, style, and technology-in response to visual communication problems. Studies in critical theory and semiotics are strongly recommended.
• Gain functional knowledge of creative approaches, and the analytical ability to make appropriate, purpose-based choices among them, and to use such approaches to identify communication opportunities and generate alternative solutions. Demonstrate an understanding of design at different scales, ranging from components to systems and from artifacts to experiences.
• Become familiar with the historical achievements, current major issues, processes, and directions of their field(s).
• Be afforded opportunities to exhibit their work and to experience and participate in critiques and discussions of their work and the work of others and acquire collaborative skills and the ability to work effectively in interdisciplinary or multidisciplinary teams to solve complex problems.
• Acquire the ability to place works of art/design in historical, cultural, and stylistic contexts, and become familiar with communication theories, principles, and processes have evolved through history and the ability to use this knowledge to address various types of contemporary problems.
• While synthesis is a lifetime process, by the end of undergraduate studies students should be able to work independently on a variety of art and/or design problems by combining, as appropriate to the issue, their capabilities in studio, analysis, history, and technology.
• Students must acquire a working knowledge of technologies and equipment applicable to their areas of specialization including abilities to use typography, images, diagrams, motion, sequencing, color, and other such elements effectively in the contexts of specific design projects.

Program Information

• All courses must be passed with a “C” (2.0) or better to be counted in the major.
• Transfer students must earn at least 50% of their art credits from SUU.