School of Graphic Design

BFA Program Learning Outcomes

The Graphic Design program embraces the entire range of visual communication. It recognizes that design is a cultural force that spans the consumer, commerce and social causes. The program provides a robust curriculum of conceptual problem solving, innovation, critical thinking and formal design as well as branding and marketing strategies. A real world approach to design assures aesthetics, functionality, value and meaning to all student projects. Students graduating from this program are well prepared to meet the rigorous challenges within the field of graphic design and are working in many of the world's most prestigious firms. The numerous awards bestowed on the students' work demonstrate the excellent approach to design and audience-based marketing strategies.

The areas of study encompass typography, print and editorial design, branding and identity, information design, packaging as well as production and presentation skills. Green strategies are very much a part of the program and issues of sustainability are strongly considered.

BFA graduates of the School of Graphic Design will meet the following student performance criteria:

• Concept Development

  • Produce clear and cohesive solutions to design problems in a variety of media

• Content/subject/research/information hierarchy

  • Analyze, prioritize and present information to an audience in a manner designed to maximize comprehension

• Synthesis of content and images

  • Successfully combine content (what is being communicated) and form (the vehicle) into a cohesive whole

• Formal design skills: typography

  • Demonstrate proficient typographic skills in a variety of applications and situations

• Formal design skills: composition and color

  • Demonstrate command of the principles of composition (e.g., balance, contrast, rhythm)
  • Demonstrate effective use of color in their portfolio work
  • Use grids proficiently in individual layouts and throughout a design system

• Drawing skills

  • When applicable to their design projects (e.g.. logo development), demonstrate proficient drawing skills

• Clarity in communication

  • Clearly and visually communicate complex ideas

• Presentation skills of pieces presented

  • Produce a high level of "fit and finish", displaying rigorous and consistent attention to detail

• Portfolio design

  • Design a professional portfolio that meets industry standards

Academy of Art University Learning Outcomes

Graduates of the Academy of Art University will demonstrate the ability to:

1. Produce a body of work suitable for seeking professional opportunities in their chosen field of art and design.
2. Solve creative problems within their field of art and design, including research and synthesis of technical, aesthetic, and conceptual knowledge.
3. Communicate their ideas professionally and connect with their intended audience using visual, oral, and written presentation skills relevant to their field.
4. Execute technical, aesthetic, and conceptual decisions based on an understanding of art and design principles.
5. Evaluate work in their field, including their own work, using professional terminology.
6. Recognize the influence of major cultural and aesthetic trends, both historical and contemporary, on art and design products.
7. Learn the professional skills and behaviors necessary to compete in the global marketplace for art and design.

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