Graphic Design

Graphic design is the practice-based discipline raising important questions about—and providing significant answers to—how we live. Designers are needed when we don’t know what is needed. Designers propose alternative futures and create new choices using design principles and processes to create, compose and construct meaning in diverse knowledge fields. We provide a broad understanding of the principles and systems of perception, action, and communication. We offer concentrations in the design practices of graphic and information design, interaction design and experience design.

Graphic design makes messages and meaning using visual form and the integration of text and image. It often has a persuasive intention and uses rules of visual composition, form and pattern to enable storytelling or create attention and an ambience for consideration.

Information design focuses on visualizing concepts and data to enhance human understanding of complex and vital knowledge. Interaction design focuses on the creation of navigable interfaces and systems that allow audiences to achieve meaningful goals, connecting people to people and people to information and environments.

Experience design is a holistic systems approach to human and natural environments for life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. It seeks to improve the various human contexts in which we eat, sleep, travel, work, play, operate, recuperate, cooperate and enjoy life.

Majors: BFA in Design with a concentration in Graphic and Information Design, BAF in Design with a concentration in Interaction, BFA in Design with a concentration in Experience Design.

Job Titles

Brand Identity DesignerMultimedia Designer
Communications SpecialistPhoto Editor
Computer GraphicPrepress Technician
Creative Art Director in MediaPublications Designer
Graphic ArtistSocial Network Media Consultant
Interaction and Information DesignersTechnical Illustrator
Layout ArtistUser Experience Designer
Logo DesignerWeb Designer

Positions that may require additional education, training or licensing are indicated by an (*). Job qualifications are based not only on degree program, but on skills and experience. Students should seek out as many experiential opportunities in their fields of interests as possible, including co-op and internships.

Employers

This is a limited sample of employers who have posted jobs on NUcareers; please note, that they may not currently have positions posted.
Cloud Kid Dassault Sytemes
Curious Media Multimedia Focus

Industries

This is a sample of the industries that often hire this major.
Advertising/ Marketing/Public Relations Higher Education
Arts and Entertainment Museums
DesignPublishing

Internships and Co-ops

These samples titles can be used to research internship opportunities.

  • Communications Intern
  • Design Intern
  • Fashion PR Intern
  • Graphic Design Intern
  • PR/Visual Editor Internship

Use NUcareers, Handshake, SimplyHired.com, Indeed.com, or other internship sites to search for openings.

For more information, please visit the department’s website.

Students enrolled in the College of Professional Studies may click here for co-op and internship information.

Resources

The following resources include various websites and campus resources that will aid you in exploring this career field and industry.

Websites for Career Exploration

 Career Development Videos

 Websites for Job Search

Campus Organizations & Activities

For additional student organizations click here.

For additional student involvement opportunities click here.

Professional Associations

Find valuable industry information, job sites, and professionals in the field you may contact for informational interview requests and networking opportunities.

Social Media

Sample industry specific LinkedIn groups and Twitter handles. Stay on top of industry trends, company information, job listings and networking opportunities. Visit the Social Media and LinkedIn pages for more information on how to leverage your social media network.