COURSE CURRICULUM

The Bachelor of Arts degree in Visual Communication Design provides students with comprehensive training for careers in graphic design, illustration, and related visual communication fields. The program emphasizes the integration of design principles, typography, imagery, and digital media across multiple platforms, including print, motion graphics, video, screen displays, interactive experiences, exhibition design, environmental wayfinding, and branding. Students develop technical and creative skills through a combination of theory-based courses and hands-on studio projects, including foundational courses such as Visual Design Thinking, Introduction to Visual Communication Design Studio, Typography, Graphic Design, Motion Design, and Design Research and Methods. Advanced coursework and guided electives allow students to specialize in areas such as illustration, web design, interaction design, editorial and advertising illustration, character development, typeface and experimental typography, information design, integrated brand design, and user experience design. The program also includes internship preparation and experiential learning opportunities, helping students gain professional experience and build portfolios. In addition to core courses, students complete College of Communication and Information electives, exploring topics such as photography, web design, creative coding, human-computer interaction, media, power, and culture, and intercultural communication. Kent Core requirements in composition, mathematics, humanities, social sciences, and basic sciences ensure a well-rounded liberal arts education. The curriculum allows flexibility for interdisciplinary learning and provides opportunities to combine visual communication studies with other fields. Through this combination of practical skills, creative exploration, and professional preparation, graduates gain proficiency in visual communication, design thinking, and digital media tools, preparing them for careers in graphic design, illustration, interactive media, user experience, and related professions or for graduate studies in design. The program fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration skills while developing a strong professional portfolio that demonstrates mastery of visual communication principles, technical expertise, and creative innovation.