Program Overview

M.S. in Graphic Communications

The graphic communications graduate program at Clemson University welcomes a diverse cohort of scholars each year, fostering a rich learning environment where students can deepen their expertise to advance their careers and contribute to the advancement of the field. Our M.S. in Graphic Communications program prepares students for technical, creative, and professional careers in this thriving industry, which ranks as the third-largest manufacturing industry in the United States.

Who are our graduate students?

Our program attracts individuals from a variety of backgrounds, including:

• Career changers: Individuals with degrees in engineering, manufacturing, computer science, communications, technology, and various business or design fields who want to transition into graphic communications.
• Experienced professionals: Industry professionals looking to enhance their skills, stay ahead of trends, and advance their careers.
• Recent graduates: Bachelor's degree holders in graphic communications, graphic arts, printing management, publishing, or graphic design from Clemson or other academic institutions.

Program structure:

• Comprehensive curriculum: Engage with coursework that includes graphic communications technical/managerial courses, research projects with professors, and electives from outside the department.
• Flexible start dates: Enter the program in the fall, spring, or summer terms.
• Personalized learning: Based on your undergraduate coursework and work experience, prerequisite courses may be required to ensure your success.
• Practical experience: Students without relevant work experience will have opportunities to gain practical experience through internships or research assistantships.
• Thesis and non-thesis options: Choose between a 33-credit non-thesis option or a 30-credit thesis option.

What unites our students?

• A collaborative spirit: They thrive in a collaborative environment, working alongside faculty and fellow students to push the boundaries of innovation.
• A curiosity of various subjects: Our graduate students are driven by a desire to deepen their understanding of graphic communications and explore new frontiers in the field.
• A passion for research: They are eager to engage in research that addresses real-world challenges and contributes to the body of knowledge in graphic communications.

What will you gain from our program?

• Advanced expertise: Deepen your knowledge in specialized areas such as print and packaging, experiential design, color science, or digital media.
• Industry connections: Network with industry leaders and potential employers through internships, guest lectures, and research collaborations.
• Leadership development: Develop the skills and confidence to lead and innovate in the graphic communications industry.
• Research opportunities: Engage in cutting-edge research projects alongside renowned faculty, contributing to the advancement of the field.

Where do our graduates go?

Our graduates pursue a variety of career paths, including:

• Entrepreneurship: Launching their own businesses and driving innovation in the field.
• Higher education: Teaching and mentoring the next generation of graphic communications professionals.
• Industry leadership: Taking on leadership roles in printing, packaging, publishing, and other related industries.
• Research and development: Leading research in academic institutions, industry labs, or government agencies.

Program Requirements

Program entrance is available fall, spring, and first or second summer terms. Requirements for the program include 33 credit hours of graduate courses for a non-thesis option or 30 hours with a thesis. Within the total requirements, at least 17 hours will be in graphic communications technical/managerial courses; seven credits will be research-related; six credits will be from outside the Department of Graphic Communications, and at least half of the coursework will be at or above the 8000 level. Based on the applicant's undergraduate coursework and work experience, prerequisite courses may be required in specific areas. Students without relevant work experience will also complete an industrial internship.