Briar Cliff University - The Catholic Franciscan Learning Place

Graphic Design

Bachelor of Arts

The Briar Cliff University major in graphic design integrates the traditional mass media education with design and production skills for the field of graphic design. The program includes typography, drawing, history, design theory and design production. This interdisciplinary program will produce educated and well-trained men and women in a liberal arts tradition. Students will gain a solid understanding of the capabilities of new technology and learn to create and design information for the complex global community in which we live.

Upon graduation, students majoring in graphic design will be able to interpret the role the media and how it has affected society from a historical perspective, demonstrate an understanding of the profession within the context of convergence, have knowledge of theories and concepts prevalent in the field, understand the broad history of the visual arts and visual communications, define graphic design, become familiar with design precedents, be familiar with important legal issues that face the field of mass communication, develop personal values based upon ethical standards, recognize ethical dilemmas that face mass media professionals, recognize the power of the media and its effects on society, demonstrate proficiency in the various writing styles appropriate for the communication professions, demonstrate the ability to write and edit articles for publication, critically evaluate written and oral presentations for style and content, interpret, create, and disseminate visual information, be able to draw still life and the figure, be able to design two and or three dimensional compositions, obtain and demonstrate the skill necessary to use technologies appropriate to the field, plan, create, and complete projects using electronic media, apply the knowledge and skills appropriate in the communication field, demonstrate skills needed for an entry-level position in the profession, understand, analyze and evaluate research, and demonstrate an understanding of research methods.