American University United States

Graphic and Visual Communication 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 Graphic and Visual Communication Design program at American University is tailored for aspiring designers eager to shape visual narratives across diverse media. You will delve into the core principles of visual culture, commerce, and propaganda, exploring how design influences perception and communication. This undergraduate degree is ideal for students passionate about creating compelling visual solutions, from intricate typography and print production to dynamic digital and interactive experiences. You will develop a strong foundation in design history and contemporary practice, preparing you to address complex communication challenges.

This full-time, on-campus degree, typically completed over four years, offers a hands-on approach to design education. You will engage with a curriculum featuring electives in areas such as typography, digital media, data visualization, and visual branding. The program emphasizes practical application through projects like kinetic graphics, illustration, and packaging design, culminating in a capstone experience. You will graduate with a robust portfolio and the skills to pursue careers in graphic design, user experience design, or information design.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This course explores the principles and practices of graphic and visual communication design. Students will engage with a variety of topics, including the history of graphic design, typography, print production, and digital media. The curriculum also covers visual concepts, illustration, data visualization, branding, and experience design, culminating in a capstone project.

1 Electives (9 credit hours)

Graphic design history: Visual culture, commerce, and propaganda
Typography II: Type and image
Design for print: Digital and analog print production
Digital and emerging media design II
Visual concepts and image making for design
Kinetic and sequential graphics
Illustration
Data visualization and information design
Visual branding and design systems
Experience design: Interactive media and mobile devices
Design capstone
Interactive experience design: Senior projects
Packaging design

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 60,270.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 60,270.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 60,270.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 60,270.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 241,080.00

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

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 1,200.00 - USD 2,000.00
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 Washington Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

91%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Emergency Services & Disaster ResponseEvent Promotion & ManagementIntelligence & InvestigationsInternational & Human Rights LawLegal Aid & Public Interest LawLive Events & ConcertsMusic & Performing ArtsPrivate Security & Risk ManagementStreaming & Digital ContentTax & Financial Law

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Actors' Equity Association

Montgomery Police Department (Alabama)

Why Study Graphic and Visual Communication Design at American University

What makes this program stand out

January 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in January 2027

Very Fast Application response time

American University typically responds to applications within 1 - 2 days, giving you clarity on your options quickly.

Life at American 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 Graphic and Visual Communication Design at American University

Can I work while studying?

International students can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks without a separate work permit. Off-campus employment may be allowed after the first year with university approval.

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet the English language requirements, students can submit scores from tests like Duolingo, TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE. Each test has specific score criteria that must be met for admission.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as graphic designers, user experience designers, or information designers.

What will I actually study in this course?

This program focuses on visual narratives and design principles such as typography and digital media. Students will gain hands-on experience through projects and complete a capstone to prepare for various communication challenges.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Graphic and Visual Communication Design program has intakes in January and August. Prospective students should plan accordingly to start their studies.
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