COURSE CURRICULUM

The Master of Arts in Visual Communication Design program requires a minimum of 31 credit hours and is structured to develop both creative and technical expertise in contemporary design practices. The core curriculum includes essential courses such as Introduction to User Experience, which provides a foundation in designing user-centered digital experiences, and Typographic Structures and Systems, which focuses on the principles and application of typography. Students also complete Concept Development and Implementation and a Graduate Seminar in Visual Communication Design, both of which emphasize creative thinking, problem-solving, and critical analysis in design. Additionally, a Graduate Portfolio course helps students refine and present their work professionally, preparing them for entry into the design industry.A significant portion of the program is dedicated to major electives, requiring 15 credit hours that allow students to specialize in areas aligned with their interests. These electives are grouped into categories such as Illustration, Motion and Interaction Design, Typography and Branding, and other specialized topics. Students can explore courses in editorial and advertising illustration, responsive web design, interaction design, motion graphics, identity systems, brand experiences, and experimental typography. This flexibility enables students to tailor their learning experience and build expertise in specific areas of visual communication.The program culminates in a Master of Arts project, where students apply their skills and knowledge to a comprehensive design project in graphic design and illustration. This final requirement allows students to demonstrate their creative abilities, technical proficiency, and conceptual thinking. Overall, the program combines foundational coursework, specialized electives, and a capstone project to prepare graduates for diverse roles in the design and digital media industries.The Master of Fine Arts (M.F.A.) in Visual Communication Design program requires a minimum of 60 credit hours and is designed to develop advanced skills in design research, creative practice, and professional leadership. The core curriculum includes key courses such as Introduction to User Experience, Graduate Studio in Visual Communication Design, and Graduate Seminar in Visual Communication Design, which together build a strong foundation in design thinking, studio practice, and critical discussion. Additional courses like Professional and Teaching Development and Design Theory I: Culture, Communities and Context prepare students for both academic and professional roles, while Critical Practices in Design Research and Advanced Research emphasize research-based approaches to solving complex design problems. A Graduate Portfolio course helps students refine and present their professional work effectively.The program also includes a major elective, allowing students to further explore areas such as individual investigation, user experience, or emerging media and technology. A significant portion of the degree is dedicated to personal focus electives, requiring 29 credit hours. These electives enable students to specialize in areas such as illustration, motion and interaction design, typography and branding, or other advanced topics. This flexible structure allows students to tailor their studies according to their creative interests and career goals while developing expertise in specific areas of visual communication.The program culminates in an M.F.A. thesis, a six-credit requirement that involves the creation of a substantial body of design work supported by research and critical analysis. This final project demonstrates the student’s ability to integrate theory, research, and creative practice. Overall, the program combines rigorous coursework, research-driven design, and practical experience to prepare graduates for leadership roles in the design industry and academia.