Program in Graphic Design
With a focus on creative problem solving skills, typography, and image creation, you will be well-prepared to enter the competitive field of Graphic Design.
Students graduating from the sequence enter successful careers in design studios, advertising agencies, and corporate and institutional design offices. These graduates design communications for applications on the world wide web, video, and various multimedia applications as well as for traditional print-based media.
Study in the program develops an understanding of perceptual theory, typography, layout, and illustration. Following the basic art foundation courses, the Graphic Design Sequence introduces students to various technical skills including computer software applications. The cohesive sequencing of courses allows the student to build skills and knowledge upon a strong fundamental core towards a highly sophisticated level of work which successfully combines words and images into creative visual communication.
Internships
Internships are available to upper-level graphic design majors who desire a pre-professional work experience. Internships are capstone experiences that further prepare the graduate for entry into the job market and provide an excellent means for students to transition from student to practicing professional. Students wishing to take internship credit must contact Pamela Tannura, Associate Professor of Art, to find out about internship portfolio submission requirements and timeline. Internships in graphic design are awarded on a competitive basis.
Design Streak Studio
Design Streak Studio is a pre- professional design organization operated by students and taken for internship credit. Students selected for Design Streak provide graphic design services to small businesses, organizations, and institutions throughout Central Illinois. Students work under the supervision of a faculty member and interact directly with clients, learning business skills and understanding how to effectively foster designer/client relationships.
Design Streak Studio is located in CVA 205 and can be reached at (309) 438-2415, or contact Julie Johnson, Associate Professor of Art.
Admission to the Graphic Design Sequence
Admission to the Graphic Design Sequence is highly competitive and is open only to those art majors who demonstrate the highest level of desire, talent, and commitment. Students are required to have minimum major and accumulative GPAs of 2.5 and must first submit a portfolio for review to be eligible to take graphic design courses beyond the 200-level and be accepted into the Graphic Design Sequence.
The portfolio review takes place during the second semester of graphic design study. For more detailed information about the Graphic Design Sequence, including program requirements, course descriptions, and prerequisites, please refer to the Undergraduate Catalog.
Faculty
For a desciption of our facilities, please visit the facilities page.
