The Graphic Design major is a professional program providing a sequenced curriculum structured to prepare students for successful transition to professional practice designing communications for a wide range of traditional and digital delivery. 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.
The program provides a solid foundation of traditional art experiences and design practices and principles to build students鈥 ability to create dynamic visual designs. The core graphic design curriculum stresses essential competencies in conceptual problem solving, research, analysis and articulation, aesthetics, design theory, productivity, and the application of technology, necessary for both advanced exploration and entry into professional practice.
All graphic design students can expect a creative environment built upon the experience of a faculty of practicing designers and design educators. Limited enrollment and class sizes ensure an intense and individualized course of study. The department's dedicated state-of-the-art facilities include classroom and production spaces built and equipped to facilitate instruction and invention with traditional and digital media. The program strongly encourages and supports critical interaction with the design community through internships, professional memberships, and participation in design competitions.
September 2025
College of Arts and Letters
9000 Batten Arts and Letters,
NORFOLK,
Virginia,
23529, United States
Traditional freshman applicants are typically under the age of 21 and currently enrolled in high school or have graduated from high school within the past two years and have not attended any regionally accredited college or university (not to include dual enrollment).
English proficiency test scores: TOEFL of 79 (550 paper based); IELTS overall band of 6.5; PTE score of 53; new SAT Reading Test of 26 or SAT Critical Reading of 480; GRE Verbal Reasoning of 152; GCSE or GCE 鈥淥鈥 level pass in English language; CPE grade of A, B, or C.
Fall: Early Action (Non-Binding) Dec. 1; Regular - Feb. 15
Spring Regular - Oct. 1
*There may be different IELTS requirements depending on your chosen course.