Art - Graphic Design (ARTG) - BA Major

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graphic design image

69 credits (no minor required)

2.5 GPA required.

C grade or better required in Studio Art courses.

Letter grade required in all major courses unless otherwise noted.

15 credits required at 300/400-level.

Art - Graphic Design Major Map

Purpose

Graphic Design is a traditional design program relying on strong fine and liberal arts foundations, integrated with contemporary multi-disciplinary practices. Although the program is predominantly based in the Art & Design Department, students will also take courses in the Computer Science, Communication Studies, Marketing, and Mass Communication departments.

Building on a foundation in design theory, studio arts, and art history, students work with professional design software and technology as they investigate contemporary design practices and emergent visual communication media. Through critical inquiry and innovative collaboration, students showcase diverse creative works in the Senior Design Exhibition during their final semester as the culmination of their undergraduate education.

Program Admission

Students are encouraged to declare Graphic Design as their major upon entering WSU.

Application for formal admission, which takes place every semester, requires that students:

Complete (or be currently enrolled in) ART 150 - Digital Design Fundamentals , ART 243 - Typography and Information Design , and ART 118 - Foundational Drawing .
Demonstrate software competency. Intermediate level software skills in Photoshop, Illustrator and InDesign are required to take advanced level design courses. Students will be evaluated through their Design Program Application Portfolio. An additional software test is required if a portfolio does not convey the required software skills.
Submit a portfolio of analog and digital work along with the application form. Because seats are limited, admission to the program is competitive, based on preparation, portfolio, and academic record. Students who are not admitted may reapply.