Graphic design is the business of making or choosing marks and arranging them on a surface to convey an idea. Graphic design students study ways to organize and communicate messages that establish the nature of a product or an idea. They learn to use type and imagery to set the appropriate stage for presenting, announcing, or publicizing information in the most effective way to reach a specific audience.
Students in the Graphic Design program concentrate on the study and practice of contemporary graphic design theory, technique, and application. The program includes the study of established and emerging media.
Our outstanding digital studios are equipped with industry-standard programs and technologies to support a wide range of projects in a hands-on studio environment. In addition to studios, our “maker-spaces” assist students in preparing portfolios and framing, digital photography, audio/video production, and sensor technology for interaction projects.
Clubs including Arts Alive and Break Thru Design let you connect and collaborate with peers to develop additional portfolio pieces, while internships and co-op opportunities add to your professional qualifications.
After graduation, students find employment in a number of graphic design/communication fields within large and small companies and institutions throughout the country.
Modeled as a traditional liberal arts degree, the Art BA - Graphic Design track look for careers that blend graphic design with other areas. Most students couple their degree with a second major or minor that reinforces and expands their ability to work in the field. These secondary areas of interest often include Broadcasting, Cinema Studies, Communications, Marketing, and Technology.
For talented students seeking a demanding program with a high degree of focus, the Graphic Design BFA program includes the study of established and emerging media. Students use state-of-the-art workstations and peripheral devices in a hands-on studio environment to create a wide range of graphic design projects. Electives provide ample opportunity for study that can be broad in scope while also focusing on a specific area of interest within the discipline. In addition, students can participate in work-study and internship programs where they learn within actual industry environments.
Brand Identity Designer
• Marketing & Advertising Designer
• Print & Publication Designer
• Lettering & Type Designer
• Graphic illustrator
• Data Visualization & Infographic Designer
• Marketing specialist
• Social Media Specialist
• Photo editor
• Apparel graphic designer
• Packaging designer
Some students opt for graduate studies in MA and MFA programs to continue on the graduate level in disciplines like Integrated Media and Social Networks, or Human-Computer Interaction Design.
The best part about this major is the amount of different areas to study. The fact that I am a graphic design major but I have also learned photography, animation, motion graphics, web design, multimedia and app design is so helpful.
The Oswego faculty have had a huge impact on me. They bring valuable experience and knowledge to students - learning from them is a pleasure and they genuinely care about the success of Oswego students.
The [Art Department] atmosphere is so lighthearted and supportive. I know almost every face in my program and we bond in classes.
Learn what it's like to work in a professional setting while still in school.
Travel with Oswego faculty to explore writing and storytelling across cultures. Courses abroad combine creative practice with immersive global experiences, expanding your perspective as both a writer and a reader.
Take classes and participate in internships while immersing yourself in all that region has to offer.
Expand your career potential with our new Digital Marketing minor. Build skills in strategy, promotion and consumer insights to complement any major.
The BFA Graphic Design program is limited to select students chosen through an additional application process. In addition to applying to SUNY Oswego through the Common or SUNY application, interested students must also submit a BFA Application.
The BFA application requires:
Additional information: