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Communications Design B.F.A.

The communications design program integrates academic study with the highest standards of professional practice through entrepreneurial, project-based learning.
Two teachers and a student look at prints of images on a table in a studio
Communications design students work closely with faculty who are accomplished professionals in the discipline.

About this Program

  • Develop your focus on conceptual thinking and creative problem-solving that result in targeted visual solutions displayed across a range of media.
  • Become adept in presenting, critiquing and modeling professional behavior.
  • Work closely with faculty who are accomplished professionals in the discipline.
  • Explore the creative process, communication methods and project management in addition to illustration, photography, typography and production processes.
  • Take advantage of the opportunity to study abroad in London, England, during your junior year through the Syracuse University Abroad program and take courses in design and design history complemented by studio and academic electives.
  • Gain the skills needed to prepare you for the wide array of opportunities in the professional design industry, including advertising, art direction, branding, copywriting, editorial design, publication design, exhibition design, graphic design, information design, packaging, interactive, web, app and UX/UI design.

Program Information

Degree Type

Major

Outcome

B.F.A.

Modality

In-person

College or School

Career Path

A woman looks at large color photos coming out of a printer while a man works on a computer in the background.

College of Visual and Performing Arts

Home to the visual and performing arts at Syracuse University, VPA supports the creative process and professional development of its students. VPA is divided into seven areas: the School of Art; the Department of Communication and Rhetorical Studies; the School of Design; the Department of Drama; the Rose, Jules R. and Stanford S. Setnor School of Music; the Department of Film and Media Arts; and the Department of Creative Arts Therapy.
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Curriculum

The communications design program is designed to accommodate many relevant interests in the overall design profession and prepares graduates for careers in the field. The curriculum emphasizes, above all else, the conceptual and strategic aspects of advertising, marketing and communications design as well as the development of basic design skills, the use of technology, and the historical and theoretical foundations of design. Students have the option to join the Design Living Learning Community.

  • Solve communication problems with a defined process.
  • Demonstrate skills of indication, accuracy and use of materials.
  • Create/direct visual form/image in response to communication problems.
  • Visually organize compositions/layouts, including image and typographic hierarchy.
  • Describe and respond with clear and original design concept decisions to the audiences and contexts that communication solutions must address.
  • Understand the professionalism of basic business practices.

Learn more about this program

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