Graphic Design

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Graphic Design showcase with student

Shape the world through visual communications.

Who We Are

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Graphic Design is the creation of visual language for communication, building messages, and creating context. Our program emphasizes conceptual problem-solving, systems thinking, and design theory and history. As a student in the Graphic Design concentration, you will learn about the role of design in culture and acquire an open tool set that is aligned with professional standards of excellence. You will gain exposure to art history, contemporary art, and deeper understanding of the social impact of design on our culture.

STUDENT WORK

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The biennial Colorado International Invitational Poster Exhibition (CIIPE) is a core feature of our program and you will have the opportunity to participate in the organization and presentation of this event.

YOUR
COURSEWORK

Investigate design systems through tools & techniques.

In your Graphic Design classes, you will create effective expressions of visual communication in print and digital media. You’ll explore typography, illustration, and design systems, as well as applications of design that address social impact and awareness. In addition to physical and digital tools, you will learn how to be adaptive to meet the demands of our dynamic world. Alongside your peers, you will develop skills for thinking and problem-solving, create interactive experiences that shape culture, and use your knowledge of the world to communicate with your audience.

As with each of our concentrations, your coursework will be supported by our Foundations Program, giving you a visual language, a critical eye, and the technical skills to find your voice and participate in the ever-changing world of design.

We encourage service learning and internships, available on and off campus, where you will further develop your creative and technical skills in a professional environment.

You will leave the program with a strong professional portfolio, supported by the skills to launch and further your career in design, including project ideation and execution, visual, written and verbal communication skills, and strategic and creative thinking, among many others.

Our Facilities

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The graphic design area occupies approximately 4,000 square feet of studio space & a dedicated computer lab is available for all graphic design students. The lab consists of Mac workstations equipped with current versions of Adobe Creative Suite & other popular interactive media software. You are encouraged to bring your own laptop, but department units are available for short-term daytime checkout. Peripheral printers, scanners, & servers are also provided in the lab. High quality & large format printers are available to students on campus & at service bureaus within the community.

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The Visual Arts Building has its own dedicated Digital Fabrication Lab where you can learn 3D modeling & printing, the operation of laser cutters, & the use of CNC machinery. The Nancy Richardson Design center is a short walk away & several of our faculty members serve as instructors.

Our Faculty

We enthusiastically provide mentorship to help shape your identity as a designer, thinker, and problem solver.