James Madison University United States

B.F.A. in Art Graphic Design

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon January 2027

Course Overview

The B.F.A. in Art, Graphic Design at James Madison University is designed for aspiring creatives who seek to master the principles and practices of visual communication. You will delve into the core elements of design, from two-dimensional and three-dimensional concepts to the crucial art of typography and digital media. This program equips you with a strong foundation in design terminology, visual language theory, and industry-standard technologies, preparing you to address contemporary design challenges effectively. It’s ideal for students passionate about shaping visual experiences across various platforms.

You will study this full-time, on-campus Bachelor of Fine Arts degree over four years, progressing through a structured curriculum that includes foundational art courses, specialized graphic design modules, and general education requirements. Your learning journey will involve hands-on projects in areas like digital media design, web design, and brand identity, culminating in a significant senior capstone project. You will graduate with a comprehensive portfolio and the skills necessary to pursue careers in graphic design, web development, and visual branding.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

The B.F.A. in Art with a Graphic Design concentration provides a comprehensive foundation in visual communication and design principles. Students will explore two-dimensional and three-dimensional design, drawing, and art history, alongside digital media, typography, and web design. The curriculum culminates in advanced studio courses, a senior capstone project, and electives to prepare graduates for professional practice in the field.

1 Fall Semester

Two-Dimensional Design Compulsory
Drawing I Compulsory
Survey of World Art I: Prehistoric to Renaissance Compulsory
Madison Foundations (formerly Cluster One: Skills for the 21st Century) Compulsory
The Human Community courses Compulsory

2 Spring Semester

Three-Dimensional Design Compulsory
Survey of World Art II: Renaissance to Modern Compulsory
Digital Media Design I Compulsory
The Human Community Compulsory

3 Fall Semester

Drawing II Compulsory
Image Making Compulsory
Two-D or Three-D Studio Art Courses Compulsory
The Human Community courses Compulsory

4 Spring Semester

Digital Media Design II Compulsory
Typography I Compulsory
Portfolio Review Compulsory
Two-D or Three-D Studio Art Courses Compulsory
The Human Community courses Compulsory

5 Fall Semester

History of Design Compulsory
Typography II Compulsory
Web Design Compulsory
The Human Community courses Compulsory

6 Spring Semester

Interactive Media Compulsory
Two-D or Three-D Studio Art Courses Compulsory
Art history elective (300-400 level) Compulsory
The Human Community courses Compulsory

7 Fall Semester

Brand Identity Compulsory
Two-D or Three-D Studio Art Courses Compulsory
GRPH Concentration Elective Compulsory
The Human Community courses Compulsory

8 Spring Semester

Graphic Design Senior Capstone Compulsory
Art and art-related electives Compulsory
The Human Community courses Compulsory
University Elective (if total credits do not reach 120) Compulsory

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 31,906.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 31,906.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 31,906.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 31,906.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 127,624.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 525.00 - USD 1,604.00
Food & Groceries USD 3,000.00 - USD 4,560.00
Transport USD 600.00 - USD 1,200.00
Utilities & Bills USD 960.00 - USD 1,800.00
Estimated Total USD 4,560.00 - USD 7,560.00

Living cost estimates are based on Harrisonburg Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

98%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Alternative Aviation Fuel & SustainabilityCloud Computing & InfrastructureCorporate Finance & TreasuryDevOps & Site Reliability EngineeringHealth, Safety & Environment (HSE)Live Events & ConcertsMarket Research & InsightsPrivate Equity & Venture CapitalPublic RelationsTax & Legal Compliance

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Accenture

Accenture Federal System

BAE System

Booz Allen Hamilton

Carahsoft

Cora Dance

IBM

INTEL

Why Study B.F.A. in Art Graphic Design at James Madison University

What makes this program stand out

January 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in January 2027

Life at James Madison University in United States

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about B.F.A. in Art Graphic Design at James Madison University

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during terms and full-time during breaks. On-campus work does not require a special permit.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To enroll, international students must meet specific English proficiency requirements. Acceptable test scores include a Duolingo overall score of 120 or a TOEFL overall score of 81.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as graphic designers, UI/UX designers, brand strategists, illustrators, or package designers.

What will I actually study in this course?

The Graphic Design program at JMU emphasizes fundamental design principles and current technologies. Students explore various subjects, including brand identity and UI/UX design, through specialized courses.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The B.F.A. in Graphic Design program has intake months in January and August. Be sure to apply ahead of the deadlines for your preferred start date.
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