Visual Communication Design

About the visual communication design major

Visual communication design has the capacity to benefit business and society, and the designer plays a pivotal role in that process. The visual communication design program allows you to study a wide range of design principles and visual communication theory and history. You'll learn the evolving nature of emerging technologies and discuss relevant theories while undertaking real-world practical projects.

As a student, you'll gain valuable experience working collaboratively with:

  • Artists
  • Business strategists
  • Clients (locally and nationally)
  • Designers
  • Research experts
  • Writers

Skills and abilities this major develops: technical skills, design, problem solving, project management, and personal branding (Herron School of Art and Design, 2019).

Engaged learning experiences

Regardless of your major or future career, engaged learning is vital to your present and future. It makes you more marketable for jobs and professional schools upon graduation, it enables you to build deeper connections with faculty and staff in your field of study, and it makes your learning personal by connecting your interests and values with the curriculum from your classes. Check out the three ideas below for places to get started, or learn more at IUPUI’s Institute for Engaged Learning website.

Quick facts

Sample coursework

  • Design methods for innovation
  • Drawing
  • Elements and principles
  • History of visual communication
  • Studio art and technology
  • Studio elective
  • Typography

Possible careers

  • Advertising executive*
  • Creative/art director
  • Digital artist
  • Exhibit designer
  • Graphic/website designer
  • Production designer

*This career requires additional training or education.

Where could I work?

  • Angi
  • Communications
  • Design firms
  • Eli Lilly and Company
  • Media and communications
  • Salesforce

Arts, Humanities, and Human Services Cluster

This major is part of the Arts, Humanities, and Human Services (AHHS) cluster. The AHHS cluster is the academic home of University College students pursuing majors in art and design, education, general studies, journalism, liberal arts, and social work. The AHHS cluster partners with students on their academic advising and career plans to guide them into their degree-granting schools. 

Learn about the AHHS cluster

Learn about other clusters

Meet with an advisor or career consultant

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