Design is how we bring life to businesses and brands. Designers tell captivating stories across diverse media. Graphic designers interpret cultural and technological trends and engage audiences with dynamic, compelling and informative content through visual communication.
B.F.A. Graphic Design
The School of Design offers a professional B.F.A. (Bachelors of Fine Arts) in graphic design that comprises design studio, lecture and professional application. Graphic design majors study visual communication theory and process in digital, print, time-based (animation), on-line and interactive media (web and app design).
Areas of study include:
- Design foundations
- Creative thinking
- Computer graphics
- Typography
- Photography
- Illustration
- Motion graphics
- Publication design
- Identity systems
- Interactive design
- Design research
- Animation
- Professional practice
The program aims to develop knowledge base for professional careers. Students prepare a graphic design portfolio for use after graduation seeking positions in business and industry or graduate school, as well as nonprofit organizations.
Big Brands, Bigger Opportunities
SDSU graphic design grads work at companies around the globe: IBM, Disney, Google, NBC Sports, Fame, Target, Colle McVoy, Little and Company, Mono, Epicosity, Daktronics, Lawrence and Schiller, Fresh Produce, Lemonly, HenkinSchultz, Janus Et Cie, Sanford, VVI, Paulsen and many more. Graphic design student portfolios are highly competitive and are recognized at national and international design competitions and exhibitions.
Professional Experience
Graphic design students interact with visiting professionals including:
- The IBM Visual Design team leader.
- Leo Burnett creative directors and art directors.
- Victoria's Secret creative director.
- AIGA Medalist Rick Valicenti from Thirst.
- 50,000FT co-founder Michael Petersen.
- GRAMMY Award-nominated designers.
- SDSU alumni.
- Pentagram partner DJ Stout.
- and many more.
Design Future
Graphic design faculty and the Office of Career Development are dedicated to helping students and alumni with career and internship searches, providing job search assistance and offering resources to discover their dream jobs. SDSU students and graduates alike are invited to take full advantage of the Office of Career Development for career assistance.
"I don't have to be great to start, but I start learning to be great from the design experts and professors." - Sam Tusha | B.F.A., graphic design, 2019
"Graphic design professors strive for progress of an individual student. i was challenged to be a better graphic designer every day." - Rachel Klein | B.F.A., graphic design, 2019
Travel Studies and Field Trips
Travel studies are an integral part of the graphic design curriculum, which enhances learning and prepares student designers to be globally competitive. Across the university, travel studies have provided SDSU alumni, friends and family with exceptional educational travel journeys to more than 50 countries each year. SDSU offers a rich academic experience in an environment of inclusion and access through student-centered education. The university provides multicultural experiences and is home to nearly 1,000 international students.