Program Coordinator/Contact
Michael (Tim) Steele, Department Head
Department of Visual Arts
Grove Hall 101, Box 2802
605-688-4103
E-mail: sdsu.artdept@sdstate.edu
www.sdstate.edu/art
Click here for additional information.
Program Information
The major in Graphic Design prepares students for entry-level design positions. Graphic designers are professionals who plan and execute designs for visual communication according to the needs of audiences and in the context for which they are intended. The graphic design degree includes a five-semester sequence of courses beginning in the sophomore year which apply knowledge of art, design, digital technologies, and illustration with the intent to interpret, inform, instruct or persuade in consideration of physical, human, social, and cognitive factors.
A 30-hour visual arts core taken in conjunction with the graphic design sequence supports the degree and creates a foundation for success. Through taking the core, majors qualify for the Art Minor which adds breadth and depth to the degree.
Student Learning Outcomes
Upon graduation, majors demonstrate their competence in graphic design through senior projects and create portfolios needed for competing for professional positions. As defined by the American Institute of Graphic Arts (AIGA), upon completion of the degree, students are able to demonstrate the following outcomes through advanced writing and senior portfolio:
- Knowledge of design principles, theories, and history.
- Knowledge of how visual communication is planned, produced and distributed.
- Practice in new approaches to generate innovative visual communication solutions.
- Ability to construct narratives and scenarios in the creation of the design solutions.
- Effective use of typography, image, layout, motion, interactivity, and the principles and elements of design.
- Practice of critical evaluation about one’s own designs and the designs of others with regard to usefulness, desirability, feasibility, economic viability and sustainability.
- Ability to work independently while learning and apply new technologies.
Academic Requirements
Visual Arts students must maintain at least a major GPA of 2.6 and an overall GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale for the duration of the program. A grade of “C” or better is required in all ART, ARTD, ARTE and ARTH courses required for the major.
Course Delivery Format
Course content is delivered through hands-on studio work combined with lectures, demonstrations and critiques.
