Design BFA

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 Bachelor of Fine Arts in Design at Western Washington University is your pathway to becoming a professional visual communicator, equipped to tackle complex design challenges in graphic and digital media. This undergraduate degree is ideal for aspiring designers who are passionate about visual problem-solving and eager to build a robust portfolio. You will delve into foundational principles of design, visual communication, and typography, preparing you for a dynamic career where creativity meets strategic thinking. This rigorous BFA program fosters innovation and technical skill in a supportive academic environment.

You will engage in a structured curriculum, studied full-time on campus over four years, progressing from pre-major courses to advanced studio work. Your journey will involve hands-on experience with design technology, interaction design, and motion graphics, culminating in a significant senior seminar and a professional portfolio. Opportunities for internships and a BFA workshop will further enhance your practical skills and professional readiness. Upon graduation, you will be well-prepared for diverse roles in graphic design, digital design, and related creative industries, possessing the expertise and portfolio to launch your career.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Design program offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to equip students with a strong foundation in design principles and practices. Through pre-major and major courses, students will explore visual communication, graphic design, typography, interaction design, and motion graphics. The program also emphasizes professional development through workshops, internships, and seminars, preparing graduates for successful careers in the design industry.

1 Pre-Major Courses (26 credits)

Design View
Design Technology
Foundations of Visual Communication
Graphic Design 1
Drawing
Type 1

2 Major Courses (89–96 credits)

Principles of Interaction Design
Graphic Design in the 20th Century
Type 2
Graphic Design 2
Graphic Design 3
Design Production
Motion 1
Motion 2
Digital Design 1
Digital Design 2
Professional Practices
BFA Workshop
Senior Seminar
Portfolio

3 Professional Development (3–10 credits)

Professional Practices for Illustrators
Summer Design Abroad
Topics in Design
Internship
Visual Lab

4 Electives (3 credits)

5 Departmental Honors (Optional)

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 27,690.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 27,690.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 27,690.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 27,690.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 110,760.00

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

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 1,450.00 - USD 1,750.00
Food & Groceries USD 3,600.00 - USD 5,400.00
Transport USD 840.00 - USD 1,440.00
Utilities & Bills USD 1,200.00 - USD 2,040.00
Estimated Total USD 5,640.00 - USD 8,880.00

Living cost estimates are based on Bellingham Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

90%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Accreditation & Assessment ServicesAdult & Continuing EducationBroadcasting & TelevisionCustomer Experience & SupportMedia Production & EditingMedia Research & AnalyticsNetworking & Internet ServicesProduct Management & UXQuality Assurance & TestingWireless & Mobile Communications

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Amazon Web Services

Bellingham Public Schools

Meta

Microsoft

Western Washington University

Why Study Design BFA at Western Washington University

What makes this program stand out

January 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in January 2027

Life at Western Washington 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 Design BFA at Western Washington University

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week on-campus during terms and full-time during breaks. Approval is needed for off-campus work after the first year.

What English language score do I need for this course?

International applicants must meet specific English proficiency requirements. Acceptable tests include Duolingo, TOEFL, IELTS, and PTE, with minimum scores specified for each.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates may pursue careers as Graphic Designers, Digital Media Artists, UX/UI Designers, Art Directors, or Marketing Specialists.

What will I actually study in this course?

The Design BFA is a professional degree focused on graphic design and digital media design. It requires a selective admission process after completing pre-major courses, culminating in a portfolio review.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Design BFA program has three intake months: January, March, and September. Prospective students can apply during these times via a portfolio review process.
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
 
Account
  • New student?

Search for universities & courses

ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️
ℹ️️