COURSE CURRICULUM

The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design at Northwest Missouri State University is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in art, design, and professional skills necessary for a successful career in the field. The program begins with core courses in composition, drawing, design, and fundamentals of communication, ensuring students build essential skills during their first year. Students also explore ceramics, jewelry, metalsmithing, and painting while completing general education requirements in humanities, life science, and physical science. Milestone courses in the first two years prepare students for advanced standing, which is required to progress to upper-level art coursework. By the second and third semesters, students begin specialized courses such as digital photography, sculpture, and digital arts studio, along with an introduction to typography, survey of art, and printmaking, emphasizing both creativity and technical proficiency. The summer session includes online courses in graphic design history and optional internships for hands-on industry experience, which are contingent on GPA and adviser approval. In the later semesters, students focus on advanced digital art, brand identity, interface design, sequential art, illustration, and advertising design. Courses in art history, government, and mathematics complement the major, broadening students’ academic perspectives. Upper-level students participate in milestone projects including the Graphic Design Senior Capstone, Senior Review, and Senior Exhibition, where they present and critique their work, demonstrating professional readiness. Electives in motion graphics, advanced design, and other 300-level courses allow for specialization and creative exploration. Throughout the eight-semester program, students develop a professional portfolio, gain industry-relevant skills, and complete at least 120 credit hours to meet graduation requirements. The curriculum balances artistic development, technical training, and professional practice, preparing graduates to enter the rapidly evolving digital design industry with confidence, creativity, and a strong body of work.