Drexel’s undergraduate Graphic Design curriculum provides a balance of traditional and technical artistic studies enhanced by general education coursework in the humanities and the physical and social sciences. Upon completion of 183 credits, Graphic Design majors earn a Bachelor of Science degree.

Graphic design majors develop a sophisticated approach to creative problem solving and hone skills in typography, image generation, corporate identity, web design, information graphics, three-dimensional design, and motion graphics. Students utilize the latest software and emerging technologies to stay current with the graphic design industry. First and second-year graphic design courses introduce fundamentals of design process, practice, and theory. Foundational courses in Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign introduce Graphic Design majors to effective strategies and good work habits for learning software applications. Upper-level Graphic Design courses focus on production of both print and screen media with a project-based approach, challenging students to experiment with typography and image-making as they envision creative solutions to problems. Students in the BS Graphic Design program also take courses in the history of art and design, visual studies courses like drawing and painting, and fulfill general education requirements.

Graphic Design students can pursue advanced elective coursework in web and motion graphic design, environmental graphic design (wayfinding systems, exhibition design, identity graphics), experimental publication design and other interdisciplinary special topics projects. During their senior year, Graphic Design students develop a capstone project through independent study with a faculty advisor, and take courses in professional practice and portfolio development.

Contact the Office of Academic Advising to make an appointment with your academic advisor to confirm your specific course requirements for completion of the Graphic Design program.

Graphic Design Bachelor’s Degree Courses

Students who pursue a major in Graphic Design take courses in:

• Computer Imaging I: Introduction to Adobe Illustrator; Computer Imaging II: Intro to Adobe Photoshop
• Production: introducing the tools and methods of production management for both print and screen media
• Fundamentals of graphic design
• Corporate Identity
• Publication Design
• Typography
• Web Graphics/Web Design
• Physics: Light and Sound
• Information Graphics: mapping, wayfinding, data visualization
• Motion Graphics: storyboarding and development for time-based media
• History of Art
• Book Design
• Professional Portfolio
• Senior Capstone

Graphic Design majors are encouraged to pursue electives according to their interests, and can choose to pursue a minor. For a list of minors and curriculum requirements, visit the course catalog.

Graphic Design Sample Plans of Study

The following sample plan of study is illustrative of the current course sequence for Graphic Design majors, depending on your class year. Note that your individual course sequence may vary if you are a transfer student, change of major or have any transfer or AP credits. Each student’s course sequence will depend on factors such as personal interest, minors, study abroad, or co-op cycle. Learn how you can take control of your education by crafting a graphic design degree curriculum dedicated to your professional goals and interests.

Sample Plan of Study for Graphic Design

Graphic Design majors should refer to their individualized DegreeWorks account and consult with their Academic Advisor to ensure they meet all Graphic Design degree requirements in a timely manner.

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