Program Coordinator/Contact
Pat Crawford, Director
School of Design
Chicoine Architecture, Mathematics & Engineering Hall 378, Box 2225
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
- Acquire core knowledge of graphic design practice.
- Demonstrate fluency in the visual vocabulary and technical skills relevant to Graphic Design – Typography, Grid systems across analog and digital media, visual narratives (photography, illustration, and type-as-image), and conceptualization of the work based on research.
- Imagine and articulate research, conceptualization, and varied solutions (generate effective ideas) to any problem.
- Display innovative synergies of media types across print, screen, packaging and emerging media and excel in one or several of the following Areas of Emphasis: Print, Packaging & Environmental, Interaction Design, Media Fluency, Motion.
- Demonstrate the ability to function as an effective member of a team.
- Demonstrate the professional awareness and physical preparation necessary to enter the design workspace.
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.
