Loading....

Graphic Design

College of Fine & Applied Arts

Compare

What is Graphic Design?

Graphic Design is the art of communicating with an audience through images, words, and ideas. You will address challenges as traditional craft and evolving communication technologies overlap. Our major will prepare you to affect positive change in contemporary social and cultural systems. Your coursework will address graphic design fundamentals like:

  • Typography
  • Critical thinking
  • Image making
  • Design history and contemporary practices
  • Research methods
  • User experience
  • Social responsibility

You must submit a portfolio before being accepted into this program.

Career Options

  • Advertising
  • Communications
  • Marketing
  • Multimedia design
  • Publications design
  • User interface/user experience design
  • Web design

Post-Graduation Success1

79% employed or continuing education

69% employed after graduation

10% attending graduate school

$56,500 average starting annual income

Sample employer destinations: FCB Chicago (2), Freelance (1), Funky Junque (1) View All

Sample grad school destinations: Eastern Kentucky University, 4A'S Foundation, California College of the Arts View All

Review Criteria

First-Year Major-Specific Criteria

  • Strong talent review (audition or portfolio)

View All Review Criteria

Transfer Criteria

Transfer Handbook

Graduation & Retention2

4.0 years to degree

97% first-year retention rate

75% four-year graduation rate

88% six-year graduation rate

Annual Program Costs3

Illinois Resident

  • Tuition: $14,620
  • Fees: $5,054
  • Expenses: $18,884
  • Total: $38,558

Non-Resident

  • Tuition: $34,972
  • Fees: $5,054
  • Expenses:$19,224
  • Total: $59,250

International

  • Tuition: $35,966
  • Fees: $5,054
  • Expenses: $19,224
  • Total: $60,244
Top