The Graphic Design program provides a sequenced curriculum structured to prepare students for successful transition into professional practice, designing communications for a wide range of traditional and digital delivery. Further, the program provides a solid foundation of traditional art experiences and design practices to build students’ ability to create dynamic visual designs. The design curriculum stresses essential competencies in conceptual problem solving, analysis and articulation, aesthetics, design theory, productivity, and the application of technology, all necessary for advanced exploration and entry into professional practice. The elective coursework provides students with concentrated study in specific specializations within design, which gives students the opportunity to craft their career goals by choosing among a range of print and digital deliveries. Graduating portfolios represent a rich experience in print design, branding, packaging, interactive media, advertising, typography, and image making. Students graduating from the program pursue careers in graphic design studios and advertising agencies throughout the country, or continue their education in M.F.A. programs.
Program Highlights
- All graphic design students can expect a creative environment built upon the experience of a faculty of practicing designers and design educators.
- Our dedicated state of the art facilities include classroom and production spaces built and equipped to facilitate instruction and invention with traditional and digital media.
- Combined, the graphic design faculty have over 50 years of teaching experience in higher education within the field of graphic design.
- Design work created by students continually receive recognition at professional venues like Communication Arts magazine, the National Student Show, the Adobe Design Achievement Awards, the FLUX Student Design Competition, the Richmond Ad Club, the American Advertising Federation Awards, and the Brass Ring Awards.
Careers
Check out these ideas from ODU Career Development Services and the Occupational Information Network (O*NET). A median salary is a midpoint of what people typically earn—half of those surveyed earned above the median salary, and half earned below.
Graphic Designers
Design or create graphics to meet specific commercial or promotional needs, such as packaging, displays, or logos. May use a variety of mediums to achieve artistic or decorative effects.
Film and Video Editors
Edit moving images on film, video, or other media. May edit or synchronize soundtracks with images.
Art Directors
Formulate design concepts and presentation approaches for visual communications media, such as print, broadcasting, and advertising. Direct workers engaged in art work or layout design.
Multimedia Artists and Animators
Create special effects, animation, or other visual images using film, video, computers, or other electronic tools and media for use in products or creations, such as computer games, movies, music videos, and commercials.
Requirements
Students seeking admission into the Graphic Design program must successfully complete required foundational art studio and graphic design coursework. Subsequently, students must pass GDES 370—Graphic Design Continuance Review—in order to be considered for admittance into the program. At the conclusion of this course, students will apply for continuance in the major by submitting a portfolio and essay, and completing a test-of-skills exam.
Transfer
At ODU, we understand that as a transfer student you have unique needs that require a wide array of campus resources. The Center for Advising Administration and Academic Partnerships aims to create a transfer inclusive culture that supports the successful...
Cost
Estimated rates for the 2023-24 academic year. Rates are subject to change. Anyone that is not a current Virginia resident will be charged non-resident rates. That includes international students.
Ways to Save
Here are a few ways for you to save on the cost of attending ODU. For more information visit University Student Financial aid
Robert McCullough Prize
The Robert McCullough Prize is a cash award endowed yearly to an exceptional Graphic Design student, regardless of class standing (graduating seniors may apply). The Prize was established in memory of Robert McCullough, longtime Art Department faculty member and founder of the Graphic Design program.
