Art, B.F.A.: Graphic Design Concentration

Program Overview

The program fosters social responsibility, civic engagement, and the development of skills in branding, publication design, interactive design, and emerging technologies. Graduates are prepared for careers in various design fields, including branding, advertising, web design, and user experience design.

Program Outline

The program stresses social responsibility, civic engagement, and the role of designers in creating work for social good.

Objectives:

• Develop strong problem-seeking and problem-solving skills in graphic design.
• Gain a comprehensive understanding of design history, theory, and principles.
• Understand the role of social responsibility and civic engagement in design.
• Develop skills in various design areas such as branding, publication design, interactive design, and emerging technologies.

Program Description:

The B.F.A. in Graphic Design requires the completion of 123 credit hours, encompassing the following:

• Art Foundations coursework: Provides a strong foundation in the fundamentals of art and design.
• 42-45 semester credit hours of graphic design courses: Covers core concepts and advanced techniques specific to graphic design.
• 21-24 hours of studio art and art history electives: Allows students to explore their interests and develop their artistic voice.
• University's core curriculum requirements for a B.F.A.
in the J.T.
• & Margaret Talkington College of Visual & Performing Arts: Ensures a well-rounded education that complements the specific focus on graphic design.

Outline:

Curriculum Structure:

The program follows a carefully sequenced curriculum with required courses that must be taken in order and successfully completed with a passing grade.

Year 1:

• Introduction to Art (1 credit hour)
• 2D Design (3 credit hours)
• Drawing I (3 credit hours)
• Art History Survey I (3 credit hours)
• Oral Communication (3 credit hours)
• Essentials of College Rhetoric (3 credit hours)

Year 2:

• 3D Design (3 credit hours)
• Drawing II (3 credit hours)
• Art History Survey II (3 credit hours)
• Graphic Design Process (3 credit hours)
• Advanced College Rhetoric (3 credit hours)

Year 3:

• Computer Design Methods I (3 credit hours)
• Graphic Design History (3 credit hours)
• Art History Survey III (3 credit hours)
• Studio Art Elective (3 credit hours)
• Mathematics (3 credit hours)
• Typography (3 credit hours)
• Symbols (3 credit hours)
• Computer Design Methods II (3 credit hours)
• Mathematics (3 credit hours)
• Studio Art Elective (3 credit hours)

Year 4:

• Visual Systems (3 credit hours)
• Web Media Design (3 credit hours)
• Life and Physical Science (4 credit hours)
• U.S. History (3 credit hours)
• Art Elective (3 credit hours)
• Motion Graphics (3 credit hours)
• Publication Design (3 credit hours)
• Studio Art Elective (3 credit hours)
• Life and Physical Science (4 credit hours)
• U.S. History (3 credit hours)

Year 5:

• Advanced Graphic Design Process (3 credit hours)
• Design in the Community (3 credit hours)
• Studio Art Elective (3 credit hours)
• American Government (3 credit hours)
• Social & Behavioral Sciences (3 credit hours)
• Professional Practices in Graphic Design (3 credit hours)
• Portfolio Development (3 credit hours)
• Texas Politics and Topics (3 credit hours)
• Language, Philosophy, & Culture (3 credit hours)
• Art Elective: Internship, Studio or Art History (3 credit hours)

Assessment:

The program uses various assessment methods to evaluate student learning, including:

• Critiques: Formal and informal critiques of student work by faculty and peers.
• Presentations: Students present their work and concepts to the class and receive feedback.
• Assignments: Projects and assignments are designed to assess specific skills and knowledge.
• Exhibitions: Students showcase their work in exhibitions and receive feedback from the public and professionals.

Teaching:

Faculty:

The program boasts experienced and accomplished faculty members with expertise in various design areas. The faculty is dedicated to providing students with personalized attention and guidance.

Teaching Methods:

The program employs a variety of teaching methods, including:

• Lectures: Faculty members deliver lectures on key concepts and theories.
• Studio work: Students engage in hands-on projects and assignments in a dedicated studio space.
• Critiques: Regular critiques provide students with valuable feedback on their work.
• Guest lectures: Professionals from the design industry share their insights and experiences.

Careers:

Career Paths:

Graduates of the program are