Graphic Design Degrees in South Carolina
Attending accredited graphic design degree programs in South Carolina can lead to exciting careers in the graphic arts industry. Jobs abound nationwide in this sector especially with the increasing use of mobile apps, cloud technology, e-commerce and digital media to express content. In response to this technology trend, graphic design careers have evolved to blend retro print and art media with modern infographics such as 3D printing and flat design elements to communicate and market ideas. The result is a bright future for talented graphic designers with the right educational foundations and credentials.
Anderson University
School of the Arts, Department of Art and Design
Anderson University is a liberal arts school affiliated with the Southern Baptist Convention. Students can pursue a variety of majors intended to prepare them for personally satisfying careers that also contribute to the society’s good. AU has been ranked by U.S. News & World Report at number 21 for best regional colleges and has earned the distinction of a number one ranking for up-and-coming schools in 2015. Additionally, AU’s graphic design program has earned national recognition by earning more than 100 American Advertising Awards in the past five years.
B.A. in Art with Concentration in Graphic Design
This 128-credit degree develops critical thinking skills that enhance the creative process and instill best practices to graphically market ideas and products. Degree completion requires general education studies and focus courses in art and graphic design including art history, 2D and 3D design, typography, print production, corporate branding, packaging, publication strategies and interactive web design. A senior capstone internship puts theory into practice as students enter a national competition by creating a personal brand and developing a marketing presentation via print and digital portfolios. Graduates with this degree landed competitive employment working for national and international marketing companies, advertising agencies, design firms and corporate design departments.
Accreditations
- Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
- National Association of Schools of Art and Design
Contact
Department of Art and Design
Anderson University
316 Boulevard
Anderson, South Carolina 29621
Dr. Jo Carol Mitchell-Rogers, Chair
(800) 542-3594 (toll free)
scschoolofthearts@andersonuniversity.edu
http://www.andersonuniversity.edu/school-of-the-arts/art-design/programs/graphic-design
Bob Jones University
School of Fine Arts and Communication, Division of Art and Design
As a Christian, liberal arts college, BJU challenges students to strive for careers that inspire and change the world around them. It prepares students with the skills and work ethics that are critical for personal and professional success. The graphic design program has built foundations on 20th century art and design from a unique Biblical perspective while incorporating modern technology for the 21st century workplace. In 2014, Bob Jones University was named by the Educate to Career College Ranking Index as the 15th Best Value College in the United States.
B.F.A. in Graphic Design
The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design requires 146 credits of BJU core classes, design courses and elective credits. Studies cover human anatomy, art history, design technology, software applications, calligraphy, printmaking, drawing and illustration, structural design, typography, production techniques, photography and marketing principles. The degree can be specialized through elective choices in the areas of print, web, experiential design or branding. An internship highlights the fourth year of study with opportunities for experiential learning in settings such as design firms, ministry design studios, advertising companies and marketing agencies. Students also have the chance to show their work in portfolio review events sponsored by professional design and graphic arts organizations. Graduates can continue with their studies or attain competitive employment as creative directors, graphic artists and designers, production managers or web designers.
Accreditations
- Council for Higher Education Accreditation
- International Network for Quality Assurance Agencies in Higher Education
- Transnational Association of Christian Colleges and Schools
Contact
Division of Art and Design
Bob Jones University
1700 Wade Hampton Boulevard
Greenville, South Carolina 29614
(800) 252-6363 (toll free)
Jay Bopp, Chair
jbopp@bju.edu
http://www.bju.edu/academics/programs/graphic-design/
Charleston Southern University
College of Humanities and Social Sciences
CSU offers a Christian liberal arts education in 45 undergraduate and six graduate degree programs. The school’s rigorous academics are paired with values education that includes faith as an integral element in the learning process and its outcomes. CSU graduates go on to lead and serve their communities in cutting-edge careers across business and industry sectors. Recognition for CSU’s strong academic initiatives and accessible education have been granted by America’s 100 Best College Buys, America’s Best Christian Colleges and the President’s Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll.
B.A. in Graphic Design
This graphic design bachelor’s spans 125 credits encompassing liberal arts core classes, specialized program studies and approved electives. Emphasis is placed on digital media and design software applications such as Illustrator, Photoshop and Dreamweaver. Consideration is also given to how design esthetics communicates mood and influences perspective. Design studies center around art history, drawing, foundational design elements, visual communication, digital illustration, image editing and marketing principles. Students also maintain a design portfolio and complete an experiential internship in one of many available real-world settings. Graduates with this degree can enjoy career success working as illustrators, print designers, photographers or web design specialists.
Accreditations
- Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Contact
Charleston Southern University
9200 University Boulevard
Charleston, South Carolina 29406
(800) 947-7474 (toll free)
Ed Speyers, MFA, Graphic Design
espeyers@csuniv.edu
https://www.charlestonsouthern.edu/academics/college-of-humanities-and-social-sciences/graphic-design/
Clemson University
College of Business and Behavioral Science
Clemson opened its doors in 1889 and has built an educational foundation for its students based on innovative research, academic leadership, collaboration and public service. Its highly regarded degree programs reach beyond campus borders as graduates take their finely tuned skills into world-wide careers. Clemson offers students interested in graphic communications the opportunity to use state-of-the-art computer and research facilities to enhance their academic experience. Clemson consistently receives high marks for educational quality and is ranked among top national schools for academics and affordability in publications such as U.S. News & World Report, Kiplinger and Smart Money.
B.S. in Graphic Communications
The Bachelor of Science in Graphic Communications focuses on experiential learning opportunities to test theories, equipment and software that develop skills to solve problems and communicate ideas across industry platforms. Students are held to high academic standards and must complete two internships that help them apply their skills in real-world settings. By developing their creative and technical abilities, graduates with a bachelor’s in this field can establish successful careers in graphic arts, design, media technology, marketing, web development, printing, publishing and packaging. The 134-credit degree encompasses core university studies and specialized courses in computer art, graphic communications, business statistics, digital imaging, e-media, marketing, managerial accounting, specialty and commercial printing, packaging, printing mediums, technical writing and developing trends in graphic communications.
M.S. in Graphic Communications
As an extension of undergraduate studies in graphic communications, the graduate program focuses on mastering advanced business and graphic design skills to facilitate leadership in technical, creative and professional settings within the manufacturing industry. Candidates can opt for a 30-credit thesis or 33-credit non-thesis track and apply for additional experience working 20 hours a week as a graduate assistant. Candidates and their advisers design a study plan with focus on graphic communications trends, packaging and specialty shipping, commercial printing, management, marketing and field research. Graduates with this master’s become career leaders as managers, marketing representatives, creative directors, technical design coordinators, scientific researchers or educators.
Accreditations
- Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
- National Association of Schools of Art and Design
Contact
Graphic Communications
Clemson University
G-01 Tillman Hall
Clemson, South Carolina 29634
Undergraduate:
Carol Jones
(864) 656-3447
jensenc@exchange.clemson.edu
http://www.clemson.edu/cbbs/departments/graphics/
Graduate:
Dr. Nona Woolbright
(864) 656-0105
nwoolbr@clemson.edu
https://www.clemson.edu/business/departments/graphics/
Coastal Carolina University
Thomas W. and Robin W. College of Humanities and Fine Arts
Founded in 1954 as a junior college, CCU has developed into a comprehensive university offering a range of undergraduate, graduate and professional degrees. Students are drawn to CCU’s high-quality academic studies accompanied by cutting-edge research and hands-on learning experiences. This instructional model especially benefits students in graphic design who have access to the latest trends and technology necessary to successfully transition into professional careers. CSU has current recognition from U.S. News & World Report and Forbes for ranking competitively among its peers as a top public school, best regional university and best value institution.
B. A. in Graphic Design
This bachelor’s degree requires completion of 120 credits comprised of university core classes, studies in the major and electives. The program integrates research with decision-making and creative problem solving by using state-of-the-art tools and technology for the graphic design trade. Students will cover specialized content designed to give them a competitive employment edge including motion graphics, 3D computer modeling, illustration, packaging and publication, advertising, typography, graphic design history and print design.
Accreditations
- Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
- National Association of Schools of Art and Design
Contact
Department of Visual Arts
Edwards College of Humanities & Fine Arts
Coastal Carolina University
P.O. Box 261954
Conway, South Carolina 29528
Kristine Connery
Administrative Specialist
(843) 349-2700
kconnery@coastal.edu
https://www.coastal.edu/humanities/programs/graphicdesign/
Coker College
Department of Art
Coker College provides seeks to reach people from all walks of life with the opportunity to earn higher education degrees. Its academic programs allow students to customize their learning experiences through a variety of graduate and undergraduate programs, study abroad opportunities and internships. Graduates are prepared to be leaders and high-level communicators in their careers.
B.A. in Art with Concentration in Graphic Design
Students with this major earn an art degree with a graphic design concentration. Requirements include completion of 120 credits from the liberal arts core curriculum, focused classes in graphic design, approved electives, field work and a capstone project showcasing graphic design skills. Classes geared towards graphic design careers cover web design basics, illustration, packaging design, page layouts, typography and web animation. Graduates can expect to find sustainable careers in the graphic design industry using their skills as publishers, web designers, advertisers and illustrators.
Accreditations
- Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
Contact
Coker College
300 East College Avenue
Hartsville, South Carolina 29550
Ken Maginnis
Graphic Design, Web Design, Photography
(800) 950-1908 (toll free)
kmaginnis@coker.edu
https://www.coker.edu/programs-degrees/art/
Francis Marion University
College of Liberal Arts, Department of Fine Arts
FMU is part of South Carolina’s public university system and provides a comprehensive liberal arts education for its students. The university’s undergraduate and graduate programs build on the professional competencies expected by employers in today’s 21st century workplace. With state-of-the-art facilities, FMU can offer students the technology and academic rigor expected from top-notch visual arts programs. U.S. News & World Report ranks FMU at number 76 for best southern universities and at number 35 for top public schools.
B.A. in Visual Arts in Visual Communication
This specialized degree requires completion of 62 general curriculum credits and 67 more from classes in the art major, visual communication concentration and an accompanying minor. Visual arts and communications studies cover art history, studio art, design, drawing, technology, visual communication and a senior portfolio exhibition. Students must also participate in field work and competitive portfolio showings. Graduates can achieve personal success as they move into professional careers as commercial artists, graphic designers, layout artists, web page innovators, multimedia specialists, infographics experts, advertising executives, marketing coordinators or corporate art directors.
Accreditations
- Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
- National Association of Schools of Art and Design
Contact
Francis Marion University
P.O. Box 100547
Florence, South Carolina 29502
Steven F. Gately
Coordinator of Visual Arts Program
(843) 661-1534 or (800) 368-7551 (general admissions)
sgately@fmarion.ed
http://departments.fmarion.edu/finearts/va01.htm
Lander University
Art Department
Lander University infuses strong academic standards into its liberal arts and science programs with emphasis on outcomes leading to career success and community service. Lander has over 60 majors in 26 undergraduate programs including several specializations in the area of visual arts. The institution comes in at number 64 for best regional universities in the south and at number 9 for top public schools as ranked by U.S. News & World Report.
B.S. in Visual Arts with Graphic Design Emphasis
Whether working with physical mediums like paper and clay or using cameras and computers to express ideas, students in the visual arts major with a graphic design emphasis will find innovative ways to communicate creatively. The curriculum requires 122 credits to complete with 52 coming from visual and graphic arts courses and the remainder from liberal arts core classes and electives. Anticipated coursework encompasses art history, drawing fundamentals, basic design, digital art and design, printmaking, studio graphic design, computer graphics and a senior exhibition.
Accreditations
- Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
- National Association of Schools of Art and Design
Contact
Lander University
320 Stanley Avenue
Greenwood, SC 29649-2099
James D. Slagle, Chair
Visual Arts
(864) 388-8259
jslagle@lander.edu
Overview: https://www.lander.edu
North Greenville University
Fine Arts
From its 1891 inception, NGU has grown into a dynamic Christian institution offering undergraduate, graduate and professional degrees. Faith-based principles underlie rigorous academic standards to create caring professionals who work to improve their communities. NGU ranked 25th among U.S. News & World Report’s best regional schools in the South and came in at number two on a best professors list compiled by the Center for College Affordability and Productivity.
Bachelor of Arts in Studio Art in Graphic Art
This specialized degree is achieved by completing 120 credits of general education classes, art major courses, art electives and graphic art studies. Experiential learning opportunities include attending at least six art exhibitions or seminars per academic year. Examples of courses include design foundations, typography, drawing, art history, digital imagery and exhibition field work. Graduates are eligible for competitive hiring in studio and graphic art settings.
Accreditations
- Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
- The National Association of Schools of Art and Design
Contact
Art Department
North Greenville University
7801 N. Tigerville Road
Tigerville, South Carolina 29688
Zac Buser
Department Chair
zbuser@ngu.edu
https://ngu.edu/programs/art/
University of South Carolina
College of Arts and Sciences
Known as the state’s flagship university, USC’s intensive academics, research activities and community service have garnered the school national recognition from organizations like Kiplinger’s, The Princeton Review, U.S. News & World Report and the Carnegie Foundation. Additionally, students can avail themselves of cutting-edge programs and opportunities for experiential learning in all fields including graphic design. As a result, graduates have an advantage for attaining their career goals by offering employers a degree with a solid reputation of academic excellence behind it.
B.F.A. in Art Studio with a Graphic Design Concentration
Degree requirements span from 128 to 143 credits depending on options chosen for elective study. The program’s content covers a wide array of topics such as multimedia design, illustration and poster design, motion graphics, logos and branding, packaging, publication and editorial design, and interactive design. Students are exposed to state-of-the-art facilities and professional equipment to aid their application of design theory in practice, internship and research experiences.
Accreditations
- Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools
- National Association of Schools of Art and Design
Contact
Office of Undergraduate Admissions
University of South Carolina
902 Sumter Street Access – Lieber College
Columbia, South Carolina 29208
(800) 868-5872 (toll free)
admissions-ugrad@sc.edu
https://sc.edu/study/majors_and_degrees/art_studio.php
If combining artistry, technology and communications sounds appealing, then consider entering an exciting, innovative career in graphic arts. Whether working for an agency to promote a brand or freelancing to provide specialized graphic design skills for a particular market, graphic designers with degrees from accredited graphic design degree programs in South Carolina will be prepared to find competitive employment in an expanding industry.
