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Design Degree

About the program

The Graphic Design program at ºÚÁÏ³Ô¹Ï State University prepares students to communicate ideas through visual design. Students learn how to organize symbols, words, and images to create effective visual messages for specific audiences.

Through studio-based coursework, students develop skills in both print and digital media while building a professional portfolio. The program emphasizes creative problem-solving, design theory, and professional presentation to prepare students for work in the design field or continued study in graduate programs.

ºÚÁÏ³Ô¹Ï offers both a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Design and a minor in Graphic Design, giving students the flexibility to pursue in-depth study or complement another major.

Is the Design Degree Right for You?

The Graphic Design program at ºÚÁÏ³Ô¹Ï is ideal for creative students who want to use design to communicate ideas and solve visual problems.

This program may be a great fit if you:

  • Want to work as a designer for a magazine, newspaper, or advertising agency
  • Are interested in designing logos, branding systems, and visual identities
  • Enjoy working with digital media, web design, and visual storytelling
  • Want to freelance or start your own creative business
  • Plan to pursue graduate study in design or a related field
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What you'll learn in the design program

Students in ºÚÁϳԹϒs Design program develop both creative and professional design skills while building a strong portfolio of work.

You will learn how to:

  • Create a cohesive body of advanced graphic design work
  • Describe the design process using professional art and design terminology
  • Communicate about your work within social, historical, and artistic contexts
  • Identify influential contemporary and historical artists and designers
  • Present yourself and your work professionally to potential employers
  • Promote and market your design work in exhibitions and professional settings

Careers in Design

Graduates of ºÚÁϳԹϒs Design program work in a wide range of creative industries. The degree prepares students for careers in print, digital media, and interactive design.

Common Career Paths Include:

  • Graphic Designer
  • Visual Designer
  • Production Artist
  • User Experience (UX) Designer
  • Visual Information Specialist
  • Art Director
  • Creative Director

Design graduates may work for advertising agencies, publishers, media companies, marketing departments, or operate their own freelance design businesses.


Curriculum & Courses

The Design program combines foundational art and design courses with advanced studio work and professional portfolio development.

Program Format, Location & Schedule

  • Location: On-campus in Joplin, Missouri
  • Program Format: In-person studio and lecture courses
  • Typical Time to Degree: Four years of full-time study
  • Degree Type: Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA)
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Frequently Asked Questions

Related Programs You Might Like

  • BFA in Studio Art – Focus on traditional and contemporary art practices, including drawing, painting, and sculpture
  • BA in Visual Art – A broader exploration of artistic disciplines and creative expression
  • Art Education (Grades K–12) – Prepare to teach art in elementary, middle, or high school settings

Accreditations and Memberships