Program Learning Outcomes

Graduate students will meet the following student performance criteria:

Strategic Communication

• Develop strategic elements focused on the target customer, the product/service, and the market
• Gather, assess, and apply relevant information, including historical research, to strategic work

Visual Communication

• Use appropriate visual media, including freehand drawing, to convey essential elements
• Apply appropriate design principles to strategic and creative work

Verbal Communication

• Convey creative ideas, concepts, and brand tone through engaging and sophisticated language at each stage of the creative process
• Communicate verbally and in writing with a unique and versatile voice

Conceptual Thinking

• Communicate relevant objectives through the use of appealing aesthetic choices
• Think conceptually and execute projects beyond traditional advertising media
• Consider diverse points of view, and reach well-reasoned conclusions as part of the conceptual and design process

Professional Readiness

• Present a sophisticated and original portfolio to acquire a job within the industry.
• Articulate career goals and plan to achieve them
• Communicate strategic conceptual and artistic goals at a professional level
• Submit work according to professional presentation standards
• Collaborate with other members of a creative team

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.
8. Engage with a variety of communities beyond the classroom through internship opportunities, study abroad programs, athletics, student interest clubs as well as collaborative, civic and pro bono projects.