A Graphic Design degree provides opportunities for students to develop the creative problem solving and visual criticism skills that are needed in today's design environment. Students completing the graphic design option will find jobs in computer-aided design, desktop publishing, promotional print publications, identity programs, packaging, and signage/information systems.

Possible Careers

  • Independent Artists
  • Advertising Designer
  • Print Designer
  • Computer-aided design
  • Desktop-publishing
  • Promotional print publications
  • Identity programs, packaging
  • Signage/information systems

Why Choose Graphic Design at Western Illinois University?

The curriculum consists of foundation courses in drawing and design; specialized courses in areas ranging from sculpture and painting to printmaking, jewelry, graphic design, and computer imaging; portfolio review; and a series of courses in the history of art, from ancient civilization through the modern age. Facilities on campus include buildings for two- and three-dimensional arts and a University Art Gallery featuring regional and national exhibitions throughout the school year.

A dedicated faculty, small class sizes, and a strong rich history of artistic excellence makes Western an ideal place to study Graphic Design.

  • The design faculty stress the ability to solve communication problems, and the ability to describe and respond to the audiences and contexts with practical design solutions.
  • The BA and BFA programs stress the ability to create and develop visual form in response to communication problems, including an understanding of principles of visual organization/ composition, information hierarchy, symbolic representation, typography, aesthetics, and the construction of meaningful messages.
  • The Foundation Design courses help students develop an understanding of tools and technology, of drawing, offset printing, photography, and time-based and interactive media (film, video, computer multimedia).
  • A low student-to-faculty ratio provides for many one-on-one learning experiences. Students are given opportunities to work directly with visiting artists, attend special workshops, and travel to major art centers.
  • An outstanding mix of dedicated actively exhibiting faulty is central to the reasons why one should consider studying Art at Western.