Graphic Design

Overview

Graphic design is an exciting and continually evolving field in today’s economy. Graphic designers create for print and digital applications in advertising, packaging, publishing, branding and more.

At UA, the BFA in graphic design prepares students with the fundamental skills to create visual responses to the communication challenges of the contemporary world. Our students gain vital experience in conceptual development, exploration of visual media and proficiency in creative technology. Upon completion of the program, students will have assembled a professional portfolio that showcases their design work in an array of applications.

Curriculum

Thinking of applying to the BFA major in graphic design? Here is the four-year course of study for the BFA major in graphic design. For information about applying, visit our Prospective Students page or call us at (205) 348-5967.

BFA in Graphic Design Entry Portfolio Review

To be fully admitted to the BFA in Graphic Design program, students must pass the BFA in Graphic Design portfolio review.
Download the guidelines here and application form here. Save both to your computer before filling out.

Careers in Graphic Design

Creative Director
Graphic Designer
Art Director
Motion Graphics Designer
Illustrator
Brand Designer
Package Designer
Mobile App Designer
Interactive Designer
User Experience Designer
Publication Designer
Environmental Designer

Find out more: AIGA’s Career Guide.

Internships

Students can participate in approved internships for University credit. Students may enroll in an internship during fall, spring or summer semesters. Students must work no less than 135 hours during the semester to earn 3 credit hours. The Department of Art and Art History offers support in identifying potential positions, but it remains the obligation of the student to obtain the position.

Facilities & Technology

Our students have access to computer labs comprised of iMac desktop computers, Adobe CC, Epson large format printers, Wacom tablets, digital cameras and more.

Although we do not have a laptop requirement, many of our students purchase one by their sophomore year. If they do, we recommend students purchase a MacBook Pro with at least 8GB of RAM and 512GB of storage.

Transfer students/Change of Major

Whether transferring in from another institution or becoming a newly declared major, we are excited you’ve chosen the BFA in Graphic Design! However, it is important for you to know, upon acceptance into the program through the BFA Graphic Design Entry Portfolio Review, that it will take five (5) semesters to complete the degree. Students are eligible for the review once they’ve completed ART 130, ART 210, and have taken or are currently taking ART 214. It is common for students who’ve changed their major to graphic design to add at least one additional year to their original graduation date.

ART 214 Intro to Graphic Design is offered every fall and spring semester.
BFA Graphic Design Entry Portfolio Review is only offered during the fall semester.

Five Semester Sequence for Required Courses in the BFA in Graphic Design

Semester 1	ART 314 Typography (Spring Only) ART 315 Digital Layout and Production (Spring Only)
Semester 2	ART 335 Publication Design (Fall Only)
Semester 3	ART 334 Brand and Identity System (Spring Only)
Semester 4	ART 414 Graphic Design Portfolio (Fall Only)
Semester 5	ART 499 Senior Thesis (Spring Only)

Contact Us

For information about applying, visit our Prospective Students page or call us at (205) 348-5967.

UA Graphic Design News

Click on this link to read stories about our students and faculty in graphic design.

Graphic Design Faculty

Jonathan Cumberland, Assistant Professor, Graphic Design
Cassandra Palmer, Assistant Professor, Graphic Design
Allison Grant, Assistant Professor of Art, Photography
Celestia Morgan, Assistant Professor of Art, Photography

Graphic Design Student Work

Angel Greene – Maui Jim Invitational (Surfboard Design). Greene’s surfboard design was selected to represent The University of Alabama at the Maui Jim Invitational, the annual college basketball tournament at Thanksgiving.

Ariel Sung – What If? (Book Jacket design). Graphic Design at The University of Alabama

Carlyle Ascik – Tide (Sustainable Packaging). Graphic Design at The University of Alabama

product design for gift cards with different cartoon pets on each card

Lucy Cook – Petco (Halloween Gift Cards). Cook won a Gold ADDY and a Judge’s Choice Award in the student category for her gift card series. Graphic Design at The University of Alabama

View more work by graphic design students.