Design for the Real World: Where Creativity Meets Strategy
The Bachelor of Science in Graphic Design at Friends University prepares you to create meaningful, strategic visual communication across today’s digital and physical landscapes. This industry-focused program blends design fundamentals with user experience (UX), marketing strategy, and human-centered problem-solving and gives you the tools to design not just what looks good, but what works.
You’ll build expertise in typography, branding, digital design, and visual storytelling while learning to think critically, collaborate across disciplines, and solve real-world problems. Through hands-on projects, agency-style experiences and client-based work, you’ll graduate with a professional portfolio that reflects today’s creative industry expectations.
Unlike traditional fine arts programs, this degree emphasizes career-ready skills which will prepare you for roles in graphic design, UX/UI, marketing design and creative strategy.
Graphic Design
Ready to turn your creativity into a career?
Program Highlights
Graphic Design
This program is built to reflect how design actually works today by learning collaborative, strategic and constantly evolving skills. You’ll gain hands-on experience with industry tools, work on real client projects and develop a portfolio that demonstrates both creative and strategic thinking.
Human-Centered Design Approach
Learn to design with empathy by understanding user needs, behaviors and real-world challenges to help create solutions that truly connect with audiences.
UX/UI & Digital Design Skills
Develop in-demand skills in user experience and interface design, including wireframing, prototyping and usability testing for digital platforms.
Branding & Visual Identity
Create cohesive brand systems across print, digital and environmental touchpoints, preparing you for work in branding and marketing design.
Real-World Client Experience
Work on agency-style projects and internships that simulate professional environments and build confidence working with real clients.
Integrated Marketing Perspective
Combine design with marketing strategy, content creation, and social media to produce work that is both creative and results-driven.
Portfolio-Driven Curriculum
Graduate with a polished portfolio and personal brand that showcases your process, creativity and readiness for professional opportunities.
Careers in Graphic Design
A degree in Graphic Design from Friends University prepares you for a wide range of creative and strategic roles across industries. Graduates are equipped to work in agencies, corporate environments, startups, and freelance careers.
- Graphic Designer
- UX/UI Designer
- Brand Designer / Identity Designer
- Digital Designer
- Marketing Designer
- Creative Strategist Art Director (entry-level track)
- Content Designer
- Web Designer
- Social Media Designer
What You’ll Learn
Graduates of the Graphic Design program develop a unique combination of creative, technical and strategic skills that prepare them for today’s design industry.
Program Outcomes
- Apply human-centered design principles to create solutions that meet real user needs
- Design across multiple platforms, including print, digital, and interactive media
- Combine design, marketing strategy, and technology to create impactful visual communication
- Collaborate effectively in team environments and lead creative projects
- Prototype, test, and refine design solutions using industry-standard tools
- Evaluate ethical, social, and environmental impacts of design decisions
- Build a professional portfolio and personal brand for career readiness
Graphic Design FAQs
How is this different from a visual arts degree?
This program focuses on applied, career-ready design skills such as UX/UI, branding, and marketing strategy, while visual arts degrees emphasize studio art and creative exploration.
Will I build a portfolio?
Yes. Portfolio development is a core part of the program, culminating in a professional review and senior exhibition.
Do I need prior design experience?
No. The program starts with foundational design courses and builds toward advanced digital and strategic design skills.
What software will I learn?
Students work with industry-standard tools such as Adobe Creative Cloud, Figma, and other digital design platforms.
Featured Faculty
Steve Monsen
- Assistant Professor Graphic Arts
- Fine Arts
- Bachelor of Science in Instructional Design, Walden University; Certificate in Design Thinking, Interaction Design Foundation