Graphic Design

The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design at the University of Illinois at Chicago offers students a comprehensive and innovative curriculum designed to develop their artistic skills, technical expertise, and critical thinking abilities in the dynamic field of visual communication. This program emphasizes a balanced combination of foundational principles and contemporary practices, preparing students for diverse career opportunities in advertising, branding, digital media, publishing, and user experience design. Students will engage in rigorous coursework covering topics such as typography, layout and composition, branding strategies, interactive media, illustration, and motion graphics. The program also encourages exploration of emerging technologies including digital fabrication, augmented reality, and immersive environments, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to adapt to an ever-evolving industry landscape.

Throughout their studies, students will participate in hands-on projects, collaborative studio work, and internships that foster real-world experience and professional development. The curriculum promotes a strong emphasis on critical analysis, contextual understanding of design history, and ethical practice, empowering students to produce meaningful and innovative visual solutions. Faculty members are experienced practitioners and scholars who mentor students and inspire creative excellence. The university's state-of-the-art facilities, including computer labs equipped with industry-standard software and dedicated design studios, provide an ideal learning environment. Upon graduation, students will possess a diverse portfolio demonstrating their technical proficiency, conceptual clarity, and innovative capacity, enabling them to pursue careers as graphic designers, art directors, visual communicators, or to continue their education at advanced levels. The program's location in Chicago, a hub for arts, media, and business, offers additional opportunities for networking, industry engagement, and real-world projects, enriching the educational experience.

Requirements

• Admission to the School of Design is highly competitive. Our admission standards exceed the minimum average ACT/SAT and HSPR (high school class ranking) for the campus. The middle 50% of our Freshmen class enter with an ACT Composite score of 21-26. Applications are evaluated and selected based on a holistic review of a student’s Common Application, transcripts, GPA, ACT/SAT score, HSPR, recommendation letters, and personal statement.
• Application and processing for students interested in attending any university is lengthy and should always be completed as early as possible. School of Design programs require international applicants to present a minimum Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) score of 550 (paper-based); 213 (computer-based); 80, with sub-scores of Reading 19, Listening 17, Speaking 20, and Writing 21 (International).
• Submit $30 international credential evaluation fee, assessed once per term of all undergraduate applicants presenting any coursework taken outside the United States. The evaluation fee must be paid after submission of the application through your UIC Admissions checklist.
• Transcripts/mark sheets must be official and submitted directly from all schools you have attended. If new transcripts cannot be submitted, a photocopy of your version should be sent to the school to be attested and then sent to UIC for review.

Scholarships

• Honors College
• ROTC program
• Global Education

The Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design at the University of Illinois at Chicago offers students a comprehensive education in visual communication, combining both traditional and digital media. The program aims to develop students' skills in creativity, technical proficiency, and critical thinking, preparing graduates for diverse careers in the design industry. Students are exposed to foundational courses in art and design principles, as well as specialized classes focusing on typography, branding, illustration, user interface, and user experience design. The curriculum emphasizes the integration of theory and practice, encouraging students to work on real-world projects and collaborate with industry partners.

Facilities include modern computer labs equipped with the latest software such as Adobe Creative Suite, as well as studio spaces for hands-on creative work. Faculty members are experienced professionals and scholars dedicated to mentoring students and fostering innovative approaches to graphic design. The program also explores the cultural and social implications of visual communication, encouraging students to develop socially responsible design solutions. Internships and co-op opportunities are available through partnerships with local and national organizations, providing valuable industry experience and networking opportunities.

Graduates of the program are well-equipped to pursue careers as graphic designers, branding specialists, digital media artists, or further their education in graduate programs. The university’s location in Chicago, a vibrant hub for arts and media, offers additional opportunities for engagement with the creative community through exhibitions, galleries, and professional events. The program promotes a student-centered environment where experimentation and individual expression are supported, aiming to produce versatile designers ready to adapt to the rapidly evolving visual communication landscape.