Program Overview

University of Missouri-St. Louis: Graphic Design Program

The University of Missouri-St. Louis offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Studio Art with an emphasis in Graphic Design. This comprehensive, four-year program provides hands-on education and real-world experiences to help students build a portfolio and prepare for a career in graphic design.

Program Description

The graphic design program at UMSL covers a broad range of methods and mediums, with an emphasis on design, typography, and illustration. Students learn from dedicated professors who are also accomplished artists and designers. The program includes instruction in animation, user experience, and brand systems design, preparing students for successful entry into the creative industry.

What Do Graphic Designers Do?

Graphic designers create visual concepts to communicate ideas and information that inspire and motivate audiences across various settings and platforms. With a BFA in Studio Art with an emphasis in Graphic Design from UMSL, students learn to combine images, typography, and other design elements using both hands-on techniques and industry-standard software.

Program Type and Format

• Major: BFA
• Format: On-Campus

Why Major in Graphic Design at UMSL?

The rigorous BFA degree with an emphasis in graphic design prepares students for immediate employment as professionals in the creative industry. Key benefits include:

• Real-world education in a real-world environment, with hands-on experience in a studio-like atmosphere.
• Opportunities to expand creative horizons, including an immersive Amsterdam course, trips to New York City agencies, internships, and partnerships fostering professional development and civic engagement.
• A rare combination of quality and affordability, offering an art school education without the high costs.

Career Opportunities

With a BFA degree from UMSL, graduates can pursue a variety of career paths, including:

• Graphic Designer
• Digital Artist
• Animator
• Package Designer
• Illustrator
• Creative Director
• Web Designer
• Marketing Professional
• UX Designer
• Art Educator

Median Annual Salary and Employment Growth

• Median annual salary: $58,910
• Employment growth by 2032: 3%

Plan of Study

All majors must meet the general education requirements of the university in addition to completing degree-specific curriculum requirements. Students can review full degree requirements and sample four-year plans.

Student Organizations and Honors College

Students can engage with recognized student organizations, such as Artists Anonymous, Student Government Association, and Students of the University of Missouri. The UMSL Honors College offers a certificate program that can be paired with any major, fostering an intellectual climate centered around democracy, civility, and academic excellence.

Undergraduate Research

UMSL encourages and supports students in engaging in undergraduate research and scholarship, producing discipline-specific intellectual or creative innovations in their field.

Related Majors

Explore more degree options, including Art Education, Studio Art, Communication, and Marketing, within the College of Arts and Sciences.

College of Arts and Sciences

The college offers exciting degree programs covering the academic spectrum from fine arts, humanities, and social sciences to natural and applied sciences. An undergraduate degree from the College of Arts and Sciences provides the intellectual base for a host of career paths, advanced study, and research in many academic disciplines.