Program Overview

Introduction to the Graphic Design Program

The Graphic Design program at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi is a creative and inspiring process that combines art and technology to communicate ideas and information visually from client to audience. Rooted in traditional art and design foundations, the focus of the Graphic Design curriculum is to educate and inform students of the impact design can make through the exploration of diverse problem-solving methodologies, innovative investigations, and creative research in all forms of visual communication.

Program Description

Through their studio work, Graphic Design majors will address issues stressing social and cultural awareness, integration of new technology, and sustainable practices while being prepared to enter into the evolving creative industry. The program aims to develop students' skills in client-focused visual communication, professional skills, and technology, as well as advanced critical thinking in analyzing discipline history, theory, criticism, and practices.

Student Learning Outcomes

Students will:

• Demonstrate mastery of client-focused, visual communication and problem-solving methodologies
• Demonstrate proficiency in professional skills and use of technology in preparation for professional practice
• Demonstrate advanced critical thinking in analyzing discipline history, theory, criticism, and practices
• Be prepared for professional positions in the field of visual communications or for graduate school

General Requirements

• Core Curriculum Program (Includes ARTS 1303 and 1304): 42 credit hours
• First-Year Seminars (when applicable): 0-2 credit hours
• Graphic Design Major Requirements: 54 credit hours
• University Electives: 18 credit hours
• Foreign Language Requirements: 6 credit hours
• Total Credit Hours: 120-122

Program Requirements

Course List

• UNIV 1101: University Seminar I (1 credit hour)
• UNIV 1102: University Seminar II (1 credit hour)
• Core Curriculum Program: 42 credit hours
• Art Requirements:
  • ARTS 1311: Design I (3 credit hours)
  • ARTS 1316: Drawing I (3 credit hours)
  • ARTS 2333: Printmaking I (3 credit hours) or ARTS 2356: Photography I (3 credit hours)
• Graphic Design Requirements:
  • GRDS 1301: Foundations of Graphic Design (3 credit hours)
  • GRDS 1302: Typography I (3 credit hours)
  • GRDS 2301: Historical Perspectives of Graphic Design (3 credit hours)
  • GRDS 2302: Design Studio I (3 credit hours)
  • GRDS 2303: Concept & Making (3 credit hours)
  • GRDS 3301: Typography II (3 credit hours)
  • GRDS 3303: Design Experience & Awareness (3 credit hours)
  • GRDS 3304: Publication Design (3 credit hours)
  • GRDS 3305: Packaging Design (3 credit hours)
  • GRDS 3306: User Interface/User Experience (3 credit hours)
  • GRDS 3310: Client Solutions (3 credit hours)
  • GRDS 4304: Emerging Technologies (3 credit hours)
  • GRDS 4309: Design in Advertising (3 credit hours)
  • GRDS 4310: Portfolio and Professional Practices (3 credit hours)

Required Program Reviews

Graphic Design Majors will undergo two formal portfolio and performance reviews. Students that intend to major in Graphic Design and meet all eligibility requirements for the reviews must participate. The Lower Level Review (LL Review) occurs after completing two specified GRDS foundational program courses, and the Upper Level Review occurs after completing the specified GRDS program courses.

Course Sequencing Plan of Study Grid

The program is designed as a 4-year, sequenced curriculum. The course sequencing plan outlines the required courses for each semester, including:

• First Year: Fall (16 credit hours) and Spring (16 credit hours)
• Second Year: Fall (15 credit hours) and Spring (15 credit hours)
• Third Year: Fall (15 credit hours) and Spring (15 credit hours)
• Fourth Year: Fall (15 credit hours) and Spring (15 credit hours)

Transfer Credit and Grade Minimums

Special arrangements will be made to review the work of students who have completed communication design or graphic design courses at other institutions to determine the appropriate entry level into the TAMU-CC program and award of transfer credit. Graphic Design students must earn a "C" or higher in all major courses to remain in the program.

Degree Matriculation Expedition or Exceptions

The BA in Graphic Design degree is a 4-year, sequenced curriculum that cannot typically be expedited due to cohort capacities, program resources, and course prerequisites. Requests for expediting the degree plan will be considered, but are not guaranteed to be granted. All requests must be approved by the Graphic Design Program Coordinator and Graphic Design Faculty.