Axe ’Em, Jacks!
SFA's graphic design program empowers aspiring candidates to learn design knowledge, abilities and skills to develop a portfolio showcasing design expertise. Our alumni work professionally as art directors, creative directors, digital designers, graphic designers and illustrators.
With classes offered as as hands-on studio, online and hybrid courses, the program covers:
- the creative process
- type design
- digital illustration
- portfolio development
- professional practices
- career planning
- internships
- and the glorious history of graphic design.
Our students work individually and collaboratively on client-based projects appropriate to professional careers in advertising, visual communication and graphic design.
Design projects include website, brand development, logo design, corporate identity standards, environmental graphics, packaging, promotions and advertising campaigns. Illustration project genres include animation, graphic novel, poster, book, advertising, editorial, comic and science fiction.
Advanced electives help you grow specific skills
Advanced electives include graphic design professional practices, typography, illustration, the history of graphic design and graphic design internships.
Collaborate around campus
Interdisciplinary programs allow graphic designers to team with mass communication and marketing students for the American Advertising Federation's National Student Advertising Competition. Students work as a self-directed ad agency to create award-winning campaigns for world class clients and participating students travel to attend AAF events at design centers across the country. Learn more about AAF and other opportunities on the School of Art Clubs and Organizations webpage.
Digital studio features and equipment
The functional and attractive graphic design digital studio features:
- superb accessible space with individual, group and client-presentation work areas, color printers and an array of useful design tools
- dedicated high-speed ethernet and wi-fi
- and state-of-the-art graphic design software and hardware workstations, digital tablets and large scale smart monitors.
The School of Art facilities include resource rooms plus laptops, digital cameras, professional lighting equipment, and a dedicated tech center with laser cutter, 3D printer, deluxe fabrication tool room and more.
Sitting adjacent to the beautifully shaded Mast Arboretum and a short walk from the Ruby M. Mize Azalea Garden, students love the inspiration that comes from our building location!
Which bachelor's degree is right for you?
Explore the two options below to learn more about the opportunities available based on your career goals.
Bachelor of Arts in studio art with a concentration in graphic design
This degree is appropriate for those students who seek a general course of study in art with minor study in another academic area. Examples of common minors outside the School of Art for art students include general business, marketing, mass communication and creative writing.
Learn more about curriculum requirements by visiting the program offering webpage on the Undergraduate Bulletin.
Bachelor of Fine Arts in studio art with a concentration in graphic design
Designed to prepare students for careers either as professional artists or advertising designers, the Bachelor of Fine Arts in studio art degree is a professional degree program intended for students seeking more in-depth preparation. Studio art majors planning to continue their studies at the graduate level should generally take this program.
The BFA degree requires a capstone senior solo portfolio show. Learn more about curriculum requirements by visiting the program offering webpage on the Undergraduate Bulletin.