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Department of Art - BFA Graphic Design
Our BFA program focuses on visual communication in a professional context. With emphasis on conceptual problem-solving and technical proficiency, students are encouraged to create effective artistic expression in various print-related media. Graphic design theory, history and professional practices are discussed regularly with faculty. Experimental treatments of typography and illustration are expected from participants in this program.
The teaching focus of our program is attained through classroom/studio interaction with faculty. Assignments are designed to develop creative thinking skills and introduce a professional level of standards. Basic computer instruction, as such, is provided through one credit group tutorials of our most popular programs. We are currently not equipped for computer animation or multimedia uses. Internships for credit are available at on and off campus locations where students may further develop their creative and technical skills within a professional environment. The biennial Colorado International Invitational Poster Exhibition is a core feature of our program and students participate in the organization and presentation of this event.
Click here to view Foundations Area Prerequisites
| ART255 Introduction to Graphic Design (Fall & Spring) A sophomore-level art class that emphasizes the understanding of letter forms as design and communications images; illustration and illustration techniques; layout; symbol design and package design. |
| ART355 Typography and Design Systems (Fall & Summer) A junior-level art course that emphasizes letter forms and symbol design and normally includes the preparation of a complete design program for an institution, business or cause. Advertising is included as a part of the design program. Use of computer software is required. |
| ART356 Illustration (Spring & Summer) A junior-level art course that emphasizes visual problem solving utilizing the figure, inanimate objects and the landscape in editorial and reportorial formats. Also encouraged is experimentation in a wide variety of wet and dry media, techniques and compositions. Use of computer software is required. |
| ART455 Advanced Typography and Design Systems (Fall & Summer) A senior-level art course that continues the investigation into typography and symbol design and normally includes preparation of a complete design program in 2-D and 3-D formats. Advertising is included as a part of the design program. Use of computer software is required. Production art is also emphasized. |
| ART456 Advanced Illustration (Spring & Summer) A senior-level art course emphasizing visual solutions of complex conceptual problems in editorial and reportorial formats. Students are encouraged to utilize new and unusual media, collage, photographic solutions and electronically generated images. Use of computer software is required. Production art is also emphasized. A variety of reading material is assigned. |
| ART495GV Special Studies in Graphic Design (variable credit) (Fall, Spring & Summer) A senior-level internship program initiated by the senior student to build bridges of understanding between classroom theory and professional practice. Students may contact any appropriate professional mentor under which to work, but must also co-sign a detailed contract sheet with a Colorado State graphic design faculty member to receive credit. A total of four credits count toward graduation. |
Continuing Education credit is offered for graphic design studentseach semester for advanced uses of Pagemaker and Freehand software. These courses are taught in the Art Department Computer Lab by graphic design faculty. For more information on Continuing Education software courses, contact John Gravdahl at (970) 491-5482.
