American University United States

Graphic and Visual Communication Design (BA)

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 (BA) at American University is crafted for aspiring designers eager to shape visual culture and solve communication challenges through compelling imagery and typography. You will explore the dynamic interplay between visual language, commerce, and societal impact, developing a critical understanding of design history and its evolution. This undergraduate degree is ideal for students who are passionate about visual storytelling and wish to gain expertise in areas such as typography, digital media, and information design, preparing you for a career where creativity meets strategic communication.

This full-time, on-campus programme spans four years, immersing you in a hands-on learning environment. You will engage with core principles of visual communication, typography, and digital design, progressing to specialized practices that include data visualization, kinetic graphics, and branding systems. Through dedicated projects and potentially an internship, you will build a robust portfolio and hone your practical skills. Upon graduation, you will be equipped with the technical proficiency and conceptual understanding to pursue diverse career paths in graphic design, digital media, and related creative industries.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This Bachelor of Arts in Graphic and Visual Communication Design program offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to equip students with essential design skills. The program begins with foundational courses covering visual communication, photography, typography, and design history. Students then progress to specialized practices, exploring areas such as digital media, kinetic graphics, data visualization, and packaging design. The curriculum culminates in advanced specialized practices, including visual branding and experience design, along with a capstone project, preparing graduates for professional careers in the field.

1 Foundations (18 credit hours)

Visual Communication Design
Design for Understanding
The Artist’s Perspective: Digital Photography
Principles of Photography
Typography I: Visible Language for Publications and Media
Digital and Emerging Media Design I
Graphic Design History: Visual Culture, Commerce, and Propaganda
Typography II: Type and Image

2 Specialized Practices I (9 credit hours)

Digital and Emerging Media Design II
Visual Concepts and Image Making for Design
Kinetic and Sequential Graphics
Data Visualization and Information Design
Packaging Design

3 Specialized Practices II (6 credit hours)

Visual Branding and Design Systems
Experience Design: Interactive Media and Mobile Devices
Design Capstone

4 Electives (6 credit hours)

Illustration
Selected Topics: Non-Recurring
Visual Branding and Design Systems
Experience Design: Interactive Media and Mobile Devices
Interactive Experience Design: Senior Projects
Independent Study Project
Internship
Selected Topics: Non-Recurring

5 Minor or Second Major

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

Corporate & Commercial LawDefense & Military SecurityEmployment & Labor LawInternational & Human Rights LawLegal Aid & Public Interest LawLive Events & ConcertsPolice & Public SafetyPrivate 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 (BA) 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 (BA) at American University

Can I work while studying?

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

What English language score do I need for this course?

To meet the English language requirements, you can take tests such as Duolingo, TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE. Specific scores are necessary for each test to qualify for the program.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as graphic designers, digital media specialists, branding strategists, and visual communication experts.

What will I actually study in this course?

This program explores visual storytelling and the evolution of design history. Students will develop skills in typography and digital media, preparing them for careers in creative industries.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The Graphic and Visual Communication Design (BA) program accepts new students in January and August. Make sure to apply according to these intake months.
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