Graphic Design

The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design program begins with a strong foundation in design principles and digital technologies, then progressing to more specialized courses in graphic design. Students are taught current design industry practices and will engage in a dialogue about the role of design in contemporary society, culture and business, culminating in a two-semester thesis project in their senior year.

Graphic design students focus on developing skills to communicate visual messages and brand strategies in diverse media formats, which include print, web, motion and mobile devices. Faculty members are professional graphic and interactive designers who instruct students in a wide range of topics:

• branding/identity programs 
• mobile apps
• web design 
• interaction design
• systems design
• information design 
• environmental design 
• motion graphics
• typography
• publication design

Graphic design students learn concept ideation, design processes and methods, visual communication strategies, messaging, wireframing, design development and production workflow. By the end of the program, students develop professional presentation skills and a refined portfolio. Intimate classroom settings and detailed, critical feedback provide graphic design students with the conceptual, technological and communication tools to excel as working professionals in the fast-paced and competitive design industry. Furthermore, students have the opportunity to participate in real-world projects such as World Studio’s Design Ignites Change and Design Lab, part of the Corcoran's award-winning school-wide collaboration NEXT.

• High School Transcript, School Report and Mid-Year Grade Report
• Letters of Recommendation. One counselor and one teacher recommendation should be submitted through forms on the Common Application.
• Portfolio (for Corcoran Students Only)
• In addition to the Common Application, you must complete the Writing Supplement. The GW supplemental essay question is a chance to show your personality and share your voice beyond your application. Select one of the essay questions on the Common Application and respond in 250 words or fewer.
• If English is not your first language, you are required to submit official scores from an English proficiency examination, regardless of citizenship. We recommend that you take the TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE Academic prior to submitting your application and make sure that official test scores are sent directly to us. 
• If you plan to enter the United States on a student (F-1) or exchange visitor (J-1) visa, you are required to submit a Financial Certificate (PDF) and a bank statement. This information is required because international students at GW are not eligible for need-based financial assistance.

Portfolio Requirements

The portfolio is the primary tool that the admissions committee uses to determine an applicant's skill and potential. Your portfolio should tell your story in a way that makes sense to you. We have no restrictions or requirements on what should be in your portfolio other than what you believe to be your strongest work. It is important to make sure that this is the best representation of you as an artist, and of your work up to this point.

Here are a few portfolio guidelines:

• All students are required to submit a portfolio of 10-15 completed works of art.
• The included work should be your best and most recent work.
• If possible, the work should be related to your area of interest.

Scholarships

All freshman, transfer and international applicants are automatically considered for merit-based scholarships as part of the admissions process and no application is required.