Graphic Design, BFA

Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design (C10104BFA)

More on the Graphic Design major

Graphic Design is the largest program within the Myers School of Art. It is a professional program for students pursuing careers in the expanding multidisciplinary field of visual communication design. Critical thinking and logical problem solving in print, web and interactive media are emphasized.

Purpose

The curriculum prioritizes creative thinking and problem solving through design theory but also emphasizes contemporary production processes using industry-standard technology. Our program requires students engage in the process of creating and encourages them to explore unexpected solutions. Students gain an understanding that design is an investment in research and ideation, innovative thinking, knowledge of tools and materials, and results-oriented solutions that create value for businesses. Considering this philosophy, our purpose is simple: to educate and prepare students for excellent and diverse careers around the country, appropriate to their talents, skills, and interests.

Goals

• Unapologetically encourage diverse perspectives, viewpoints, ideas and thinking from all students, staff, faculty, guests and visitors.
• Create engaged, socially-responsible, and thoughtful critical thinkers.
• Maintain a diverse and accomplished faculty, knowledgeable and prepared to engage students on the ever-expanding field of graphic design.
• Promote ethical standards of business and communication, while cultivating an environment for a responsible and socially-aware graphic design industry.
• Research and develop modern techniques for graphic designers, including committing to emerging technologies and new industries.
• Archive and maintain the oral and written history of visual communication design.

Distinctions

• A comprehensive graphic design program within an interdisciplinary school of art. 
• Graduates of the program have instruction in all areas of the expanding graphic design industry, including traditional print, web, interactive, user experience, motion, animation, environmental, and experimental design.
• Design x Nine is a unique in-house student design studio opportunity creating real-world solutions for on and off-campus clients.
• 100% of our graduates develop business connections and entrepreneurial skills through professional internships; unique in-class client opportunities with companies like the Akron Zoo, MiLB’s Akron Rubber Ducks, NASA, Bridgestone, or Microsoft; or various portfolio reviews and local affiliated events with industry professionals.
• Students have access to industry specific and emerging technology, including computer labs, camera/video equipment, various printing solutions, 3D prototyping and printing, laser cutting, augmented and virtual reality systems, projection mapping, software solutions, and materials.
• Finding inspiration through travel, our students regularly visit design epicenters such as Miami, New York, and Chicago as well as unique travel experiences to other areas of the United States and Europe.

The following information has official approval of The Mary Schiller Myers School of Art and The Buchtel College of Arts & Sciences, but is intended only as a supplemental guide. Official degree requirements are established at the time of transfer and admission to the degree-granting college. Students should refer to the Degree Progress Report (DPR) which is definitive for graduation requirements. Completion of this degree within the identified time frame below is contingent upon many factors, including but not limited to: class availability, total number of required credits, work schedule, finances, family, course drops/withdrawals, successfully passing courses, prerequisites, among others. The transfer process is completed through an appointment with your academic advisor.

Students are encouraged to visit the The Mary Schiller Myers School of Art their freshman year to obtain preliminary information regarding the program requirements and to learn more about on-campus opportunities available to students.

Three year accelerated option: for first time students who have earned credits for at least the first year of courses. Credits can be earned through qualifying scores on appropriate Advanced Placement (AP) exams or through College Credit Plus Program (CCP) courses. Credits for qualifying AP scores or CCP courses are determined by the appropriate academic department. Departments may assign varied course credit, depending on the student’s score on an AP exam or grade in a CCP course. Students may also receive credit by examination or via placement tests, where appropriate.

Requirements

Summary

Note: A 2.5 cumulative GPA in all ART courses is required for graduation.

Recommended General Education Courses

College of Arts & Sciences Requirement

Art History Requirements

Foundation Core

Graphic Design Requirements

Photography Requirement

Electives

¹

A minimum of three credits must come from ART Studio Arts. The remaining two may be studio arts or open electives. 

Recommended Sequence 

¹

See adviser for placement

²

ART 480 Advanced Graphic Design, ART 481 Design X Nine, or ART 485 Advanced Illustration