BFA in Graphic Design, University of Nebraska - Lincoln

48 Months

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About this course

The graphic design major prepares students to blend creativity with visual communication, enabling them to produce diverse print and digital products. Offered by the School of Art, Art History and Design, it provides foundational knowledge in art and design principles and history. The program offers two undergraduate degrees: a Bachelor of Arts (BA) and a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA). The BA degree involves about fifty percent major coursework and encourages exploration in an academic area outside art, along with a complementary language component. The BFA is more intensive, with around seventy percent coursework focused on graphic design and studio art, preparing students for professional careers or advanced study in design.

Why this course is highly recommended

This program offers a comprehensive curriculum that combines technical skills with creative problem-solving. It emphasizes hands-on studio practice, critical thinking, and understanding of art history and visual culture, which are vital for a successful career in design. The curriculum also includes opportunities for internships, special topics, and collaborative projects, providing real-world experience that is highly valued in the industry. Whether students want to work professionally or pursue graduate studies, this degree equips them with a versatile skill set and a strong foundation in visual communication.

Specialisation

The program specializes in visual communications, emphasizing innovative design solutions across print and digital media. Students engage with core courses such as Graphic Design I, II, and III, and explore related areas like typography, interaction design, publication design, and brand promotion. For both degrees, there are opportunities to take electives in digital arts, time-based media, and art history, allowing students to tailor their education to specific interests within the broad scope of graphic design.

Course fees

Application fees

NaNL

1st year tuition fees

Living cost

Degree requirements

To graduate with a BA in Graphic Design, students must complete 120 credit hours, including foundation courses, major courses, electives, and art history. The program requires a minimum GPA of 2.0 and at least 30 of the last 36 credits completed while enrolled at UNL. For the BFA, students also complete similar credit requirements but with a higher proportion dedicated to major coursework—around seventy percent—and need to meet specific grade and course level standards, including upper-level coursework and independent study restrictions. Both degrees demand residency of at least 30 credits at UNL.

English language test

DUOLINGO

IELTS

TOEFL

PTE

Want to learn more about the admission process, eligibility criteria, and acceptance rates for international students? Visit the University of Nebraska - Lincoln admission page for complete details.

Career prospects

Graduates from the graphic design program are well-prepared for careers in visual communication, branding, interactive media, publication design, and user experience. The curriculum’s emphasis on innovative problem-solving and industry-standard skills positions students for employment in diverse sectors such as advertising, media, publishing, and digital agencies. The program’s focus on professional development through internships and real-world projects also enhances employability and readiness for postgraduate study in design or related fields.

FAQs

What are the prerequisites to enroll in this program?

Applicants must meet general college admission requirements, including coursework in English, Math, Social Studies, Natural Sciences, and Foreign Language. College-related standards include minimum ACT or SAT scores or top-half high school rankings, with specific TOEFL scores for international students.

Can international students apply?

Yes, international students are eligible to apply, provided they meet the minimum TOEFL requirements of 70 (Internet) or 523 (paper). Additional department standards may also apply.