Graphic Design
Molly Hopkins, Album Cover (detail), Graphic Design III, 2023
B.A. or B.F.A. in Studio Art with Concentration in Graphic Design
Graphic designers play a critical role in business by creating visual solutions that respond to client needs — including (but certainly not limited to) logos, brand identities, web sites, apps, game interfaces, signage systems, annual reports, books, magazines, opening sequences for films, posters, digital displays, animation, typefaces, packaging and label design.
Develop Professional Design Skills
As a student of graphic design, you will develop skills that are valued by professional design studios, advertising agencies, branding specialists, book and magazine publishers, social organizations, and more. You will learn to consider context, interdisciplinary relationships, and the role of technology while engaging in a variety of design projects. Students work with traditional media as well as software tools — engaging in topics such as creative development, the synthesis of visual ideas, typography, branding, book design, package design, web and app design, social issues, ethics, and the transition from student to professional designer.
Internships
While internships are not required, we strongly recommend that students seek opportunities during their senior year or shortly after graduation. Our students have been hired as graphic design interns at companies such as NAIL Communication, BCBSRI, the RISD Museum, Del’s, The Museum of Work + Culture and RDW Group. College credit for approved internships can be arranged through your academic adviser. AIGA provides an excellent guide to internships at https://www.aiga.org/resources/a-guide-to-internships.
What Our Graduates Do
Graduates from our program work as graphic designers, web developers, UX/UI designers, art directors, creative directors, illustrators, authors, and educators. Others have furthered their education in leading M.F.A. programs.
Program Details
The following Rhode Maps list required courses and sample plans of study:
B. A. in Studio Art with Concentration in Graphic Design Rhode Map
B. F. A. in Studio Art with Concentration in Graphic Design Rhode Map
Other Concentrations and Program Options
If you don't have an interest in metalsmithing and jewelry, the Studio Art B.A. and B.F.A. programs offer many other areas of concentration:
Or, if you are already part of a different degree program, you may opt to minor in studio art:
