Thomas Jefferson University United States

Visual Communication Design: (B.S.)

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 Science in Visual Communication Design (B.S. VCD) at Thomas Jefferson University is crafted for aspiring designers eager to shape visual narratives and user experiences across graphic design and web development. In a world increasingly reliant on compelling digital and print communication, this undergraduate degree equips you with a robust foundation in design principles, typography, and image-making. You will explore the critical interplay between aesthetics, functionality, and user-centered strategy, preparing you to tackle diverse design challenges with confidence and creativity.

This full-time, on-campus program spans four years, integrating a balanced curriculum of liberal arts and specialized VCD coursework. You will progress through eight core design studios, from foundational concepts to advanced branding and web development, culminating in a self-authored capstone project and portfolio. Throughout your studies, you will develop skills in graphic design communication or web design and development, alongside practical experience in media production and marketing. You will graduate prepared for diverse career paths in design agencies, tech companies, or as an independent creative professional.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This Bachelor of Science in Visual Communication Design program equips students with foundational design principles, digital imaging, and graphic design skills. The curriculum progresses through advanced typography, web design and programming, branding, and media production, culminating in a capstone project. Students will also explore art history, ethics, diversity, and professional practice, preparing them for a career in visual communication.

1 First Year (31 credits)

Design 1: Design Essentials
Drawing Essentials
Digital Imaging CAD
Design 2: Intro to Graphic Design
A Survey of the History of Art
Pathways Seminar
Writing Seminar I: Written Communication
American Visions
Mathematics
General Science
Finding and Shaping Opportunities

2 Second Year (30 credits)

Design 3: Intro to Typography
Design 4: Advanced Typography
Fundamentals of Web Programming
Foundation for Web Design and Strategy
Art History Elective
Ethics
Global Diversity
Writing Seminar II: Multimedia Communication
Systems Thinking & Sustainability (Science)
History of Graphic Design

3 Third Year (30 credits)

Design 5: Branding
Design 6: Advanced Branding
Media Production
Principles of Marketing
Design 5: Advanced Web Design and Strategy
Design 6: Web Development
Javascript
Media Production
Principles of Marketing
American Diversity
Global Citizenship
Contemporary Global Issues
Ethnographic Research Methods

4 Fourth Year (30 credits)

Design 7: Systems Design Integration
Capstone Prep and Professional Practice
Design 8: Capstone for VCD
Design Theory and Criticism
Design 7 User Interface Design
Design 8: Capstone for VCD
Capstone Prep and Professional Practice
Design Theory and Criticism
Philosophies of the Good Life

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 48,022.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 48,022.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 48,022.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 48,022.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 192,088.00

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

Living Costs

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 East Falls Campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

97%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Amusement & Recreation ServicesAnimation & Visual EffectsBlockchain & Emerging TechnologiesCloud Computing & InfrastructureCustomer Experience & SupportData Science & AnalyticsIT Support & Systems AdministrationPhotojournalism & Visual MediaStreaming & Digital ContentTheme Parks & Leisure

Top Employers Hiring for this course

British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC)

Comcast

NG Insights

Why Study Visual Communication Design: (B.S.) at Thomas Jefferson University

What makes this program stand out

January 2027 Closing soon

Next intake is in January 2027

Very Fast Application response time

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

Life at Thomas Jefferson 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 Visual Communication Design: (B.S.) at Thomas Jefferson University

Can I work while studying?

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

What English language score do I need for this course?

Applicants must meet specific English language requirements: a overall score of 115 on Duolingo, 80 on TOEFL, 6.5 on IELTS, or 53 on PTE. Each test has its own minimum scores for individual sections.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates may pursue careers as graphic designers, user experience designers, branding strategists, digital strategists, or art directors.

What will I actually study in this course?

About our Program

One of our strengths is our close-knit community, and that is by design. Faculty work closely with all Visual Communication Design students as they progress through a series of 8 core design studios. This begins with design foundations, and progresses through courses in typography, user experience, branding, digital strategy, systems design and culminates with a self-authored, senior design capstone project and portfolio.

The program provides training in a

When can I start — what are the intake months?

Our program accepts students for intake in January and September. Be sure to apply ahead of these months to secure your spot.
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