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 Graphic Design Bachelors Degree at Shorelight University of Illinois Chicago is designed for aspiring creatives who wish to master the art of visual communication and bring ideas to life through compelling design. You will explore the fundamental principles of visual language, typography, and digital media, developing a keen eye for form, color, and composition. This programme equips you with the critical thinking and technical skills necessary to address complex visual challenges, preparing you for a dynamic career where you can influence perception and engage audiences through impactful design solutions.

This full-time, on-campus undergraduate programme is structured over four years, immersing you in a comprehensive curriculum that includes studios on design photography, digital media, and typography. You will engage with the history of design and develop professional practice skills, culminating in a senior thesis project where you will apply your expertise to a significant design challenge. Upon graduation, you will be prepared to pursue diverse career paths in advertising, branding, web design, and publishing, armed with a robust portfolio and the practical experience gained at Shorelight University of Illinois Chicago.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This Graphic Design program offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to equip students with foundational and advanced skills in the field. The program progresses through various studios and theoretical courses, covering areas such as form, photography, digital media, and typography. Students will explore the history of art and design, engage in academic writing, and complete a capstone thesis project. The curriculum also includes general electives to broaden their educational experience.

1 Fall Semester

Design Colloquium
2D Form Studio
3D Form Studio
Design Photography
Academic Writing I: Writing in Academic and Public Contexts

2 Spring Semester

Design Drawing
Digital Media Design I
Color Theory
Academic Writing II: Writing for Inquiry and Research
UIC First-Year Dialogue Seminar

3 Fall Semester

World History of Art and the Built Environment I
Typography I: Form
Digital Media Design II
Form and Image Studio

4 Spring Semester

World History of Art and the Built Environment II
Typography II: Systems
Digital Media Design III: Motion Design
Understanding the Individual and Society course
General Elective

5 Fall Semester

History of Design I: 1760-1925
Typography III: Expression
Digital Media Design IV: Advanced Topics
General Elective
Understanding the Past course

6 Spring Semester

History of Design II: 1925 to the Present
Typography IV: Advanced Topics
DES Elective
Analyzing the Natural World course
General Elective

7 Fall Semester

Graphic Design Thesis I
Professional Practice Project I
Interdisciplinary Product Development I
Design and Identity I
Information Aesthetics I
General Elective
Exploring World Cultures course

8 Spring Semester

Senior Design Colloquium I
Senior Design Colloquium II
Graphic Design Thesis II
Professional Practice Project II
Interdisciplinary Product Development II
Design and Identity II
Information Aesthetics II
ART Elective
Understanding U.S. Society course

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 31,996.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 31,996.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 31,996.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 31,996.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 127,984.00

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

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 1,430.00 - USD 1,788.00
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 Chicago Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

94%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Cloud Computing & InfrastructureConsumer Finance & Credit ServicesCorporate Finance & TreasuryCurriculum & Instructional DesignFilm & Television ProductionFintech & Mobile MoneyPrivate Equity & Venture CapitalRegulatory & Government AffairsRoad Transport & LogisticsTalent & Artist Management

Top Employers Hiring for this course

Amazon Web Services

Booz Allen Hamilton

IBM

Meta

NBCUniversal

School of Rock

Why Study Graphic Design at University of Illinois Chicago

What makes this program stand out

January 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in January 2027

Very Fast Application response time

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

Life at University of Illinois Chicago 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 Design at University of Illinois Chicago

Can I work while studying?

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

What English language score do I need for this course?

To enroll, applicants must meet specific English language requirements, including a TOEFL overall score of 80, an IELTS overall score of 6.5, or a PTE overall score of 54. Each test has specific minimum scores for different components.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as graphic designers, visual communicators, art directors, brand strategists, or multimedia artists.

What will I actually study in this course?

Graphic design makes ideas visible. It's a nuanced visual language that conveys concrete ideas by abstract means, combining the art of typography with the skillful rendering of signs, symbols, and

When can I start — what are the intake months?

Intakes for the Graphic Design course are available in January, May, and August. This allows flexibility for students to start their studies at different times throughout the year.
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