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 communications theory and history. You will learn the evolving nature of emergent technologies and discuss relevant theories while undertaking real-world practical projects. As a student, you will gain valuable experience working collaboratively with artists, designers, writers, research experts, business strategists, and clients in our local and national communities.
About the Major
Complementing Interests
AArtistic
EEnterprising
SSocial
Opportunities After Graduation
According to the Occupational Outlook Handbook (2017), the predicted job outlook for graphic designers is predicted to remain stable with a growth of 1% through 2024. Web developers and designers are growing at a much faster than average pace of 27%. Multimedia artist careers are predicted to grow at an average pace of 6% through 2024.
The average starting salary for Herron School of Art and Design graduates with a degree in visual communication design was $34,088 for the May 2016 graduating cohort. The median salary for fine artist professionals in Indiana was $35,900 in May 2015 (Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2017).
(This section is intended for informational purposes, not prediction of actual salary.)
Visual communication design majors often pursue advanced degrees in the following areas: graphic arts, fine arts, museum studies, arts administration, art therapy, and art history.
Quick Facts
Sample Coursework
- Drawing
- Studio art and technology
- History of visual communication
- Elements and principles
- Typography
- Design methods for innovation
- Studio elective
Possible Careers
- Advertising executive*
- Creative/art director
- Digital artist
- Exhibit designer
- Graphic/website designer
- Production designer
*This career requires further education or training.
Where could I work?
- Angie's List
- Eli Lilly and Company
- Communications
- Design firms
- Media and communications
- Salesforce
Where to Get More Information
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.