Program Coordinator/Contact
Young Ae Kim, Graphic Design Program Coordinator
School of Design
Grove Hall 101
605-688-4103
Program Information
The major in Graphic Design provides a comprehensive visual communication experience, including mobile technology, interface design, user experience design, animation and motion graphics, product/package design, brand identity design, data visualization design, and entrepreneurship. Graduates of the Graphic Design program will create professional portfolios, engage in real experiences working in industry, and have the opportunity to build strong connections with professionals nationally and internationally. South Dakota State University graduates are prepared to work in almost any field imaginable. A 12-credit visual arts core taken in conjunction with the graphic design sequence supports the degree and creates a foundation for success. Through taking the core and taking 6 additional ART, ARTH or ARTE courses, majors qualify for the Studio Arts Minor adding breadth and depth to the degree.
Student Learning Outcomes
- Understand the professional practice and the responsibilities for design professionals.
- Understand the use of basic visual communication principles and process, theory, principles and history, and creative approaches in design processes.
- Demonstrate collaborative skills and the ability to work effectively in interdisciplinary or multidisciplinary teams to solve complex problems.
- Demonstrate ability to incorporate research and analysis procedures regarding people and contexts into communication design decision-making.
- Demonstrate functional knowledge of professional design practices and processes, professional and ethical behaviors, and intellectual properties.
- Apply design knowledge and skills beyond the classroom i.e., field research, internships, and collaborative programs with professional and industry groups, and international experiences.
Academic Requirements
Graphic Design 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 a “C” or better is required in all ART, ARTE, ARTH, GDES, DSGN, LA, ARCH, and ID courses. The Graphic Design degree requires the completion of internship experience during the summer between the junior and senior years and a travel studies course required during the summer any year between sophomore and senior years.
Equipment and Supplies
The Graphic Design major requires students to own a laptop computer by the start of their sophomore year. The required computer specifications are listed on the SDSU website.
Course Delivery Format
Course content is delivered through hands-on studio work combined with lectures, demonstrations and critiques.
