Graphic Design Major

Graphic design is about communicating ideas through the juxtaposition of typography and image. It is not only a profession but also a medium, an expression of the methodology of visual communication.

The graphic design program at Ohio Northern guides students through sequential instruction. Courses in visual communication, design theory, research, history and typography, and the techniques of production are all part of the core design curriculum. Intermediate courses focus on concentration and development: conceptual development, design thinking, systematic design and narratives. Advanced classes enable students to work with complex design projects with multiple elements and critical analysis. At this level, classes are structured to integrate theories and concepts into advanced problem solving. Classes also encourage students' preparation of portfolios and require a high level of professional execution of assignments. The program equips students to observe clearly, analyze carefully, and think critically and creatively. Students learn how to become successful visual communicators by applying the core principles of graphic design.

The mission of the graphic design program is to prepare undergraduate students to become socially and environmentally aware leaders in the field of visual communication. Focusing on development and mastery of conceptual and technical skills in graphic design, illustration, and advertising as well as studio electives, cross disciplinary courses and collaborative experiences prepare students for the convergence of the design fields and for positions as creative directors across a broad spectrum of increasingly media-based careers.

Like all students at ONU, graphic design students participate in the broad range of courses taught through the BFA or BA program, such as illustration, painting and photography. Students also may take courses in interactive, web and advertising design. Students can elect to take courses from the College of Business Administration, the English department, the communication studies department and the technological studies department.

BFA Degree in Graphic Design
The BFA degree program in graphic design is a rigorous course of study in art and visual communication design. The student is expected to integrate design studies with a liberal arts curriculum. Students may elect some depth in a related communication discipline of their choice, such as public relations, marketing, or arts management. All BFA degree seeking students are required to complete a full-time internship in a graphic design setting, usually held during a summer term. Typical sites for students include museums, design firms, and public relation offices.

BA Degree in Graphic Design
This degree in graphic design allows the student a major study in design in addition to integrating a strong liberal arts program. Students gain some depth in a number of studio-related disciplines of their choice, but students are encouraged to minor or double major in another academic field. At Ohio Northern, students may select such programs as broadcasting, public relations, communication studies, marketing, entrepreneurship, museum studies, or arts management. For a complete list of major and minor programs of study, visit the admissions office website.

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True North Lives: Student Testimony
Meggie Schmidt
Major: graphic design
Activities: AIGA, Kappa Pi, Delta Zeta, cross country, Student Art League, Public Relations Student Society of America, and Alpha Lambda Delta
Internship experience: Wexner Center for the Arts
Since I am majoring in graphic design with a minor in public relations, I plan to work for a record company, designing brand identities, logos and album covers for bands.