Students learn the principles and practice of web design, logo and business identity design, typography, publication, illustration, video production, animation, branding and more. They are exposed to the creativity of other outstanding contemporary artists whose works are exhibited in the University Art Department Gallery, located on the first floor of the Arbury Fine Arts Center. Additionally, with professor guidance, students develop their design portfolio and gain hands-on experience through projects and internships, preparing them for the professional world or graduate school.
Graphic Design (BA)
About
SVSU’s Graphic Design program prepares students to analyze, understand and communicate in the language of design. Students learn to apply their knowledge through the innovation and creation of new and effective designs. Students work closely with professors in small classes to develop their artistic talent, skill and discipline. In addition to a rich and varied curriculum, that includes branding, animation, time-based media, website, application, logo and typography design, students have access to numerous scholarships as well as opportunities to study abroad and exhibit their work in gallery settings. Renowned artists regularly visit as SVSU enthusiastically fosters a diverse, supportive and vibrant art community. Graduates from the program go on to careers in business, education and government, or enter highly respected graduate schools throughout the nation.
Cardinal Points
-
The Art Department offers multiple scholarships available to students in the Art program.
-
Graphic Design students have many opportunities to travel and study overseas.
-
Internship, co-op and fieldwork opportunities are available for students to gain experience working in the design profession.
-
Visiting artist lecture and exhibition series for students to engage with acclaimed artists and their work.
-
The University Art Gallery displays student art alongside the work of renowned artists.
Highlighted Courses
Year 1
Year 2
Year 3
Year 4
Key Electives
Click here to see a listing of programs
Programs
Majors
Other
Your Plan for a Successful College Experience
The Cardinal Plan is a unique outline created by faculty for your program at SVSU and serves as a guide for student success.
Complementary Minors/Majors
Beyond The Books
Exhibit Work
Students exhibit their work at the University Art Gallery in conjunction with the work of acclaimed contemporary artists and through collaboration with the Marshall M. Fredericks Sculpture Museum.
Student Organizations
SVSU offers a variety of clubs, such as fine art, photography, graphic design, video and film, virtual reality and comics.
Career Building Opportunities
SVSU offers multiple opportunities to enhance a student's expertise. Including work via Cardinal Solutions, an interdisciplinary team of students and professors who work with local businesses.
Our Students After Graduation...
Employers
Quicken Loans
Perrin Brewery
Amigo Mobility International
Morley Companies
Regional Medical Imaging
Century 21
Henry Ford Museum
ICON Interactive
Graduate Programs
University of Idaho
Wayne State University
Ohio University
Indiana University
Kent State University
Michigan State University
University of Oregon
Career Opportunities
Graphic Designer
Web Designer
Art Director
Marketing Director
Logo Designer
Illustrator
App Designer (UX Designer)
- 4% projected growth for the employment of designers with a bachelor’s degree through 2026. (U.S. Dept. of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics)
- $50,370 is the median yearly pay for graphic designers in the U.S. (U.S. Dept. of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics)
- With a bachelor’s degree, career doors are open to a multitude of fields including marketing, art director, web designer, illustrator, app designer, photographer, printmaker, muralist, studio owner, publishing and so many more.
Cardinal Successes
The stories below offer insight into how our students have turned their SVSU education into successful opportunities yielding real-world success.
Kaitlyn Zumbach Graphic Design Alumni
News