Art & Design Northern Michigan University - Graphic Communication BFA Degree Program

Frequently Asked Questions For Prospective
Graphic Communication Students

What is Graphic Communication?

Graphic Communication is the study of visual form. Layouts created with typography, photography, and graphic shapes convey messages to an external source. Traditionally graphic layouts were two-dimensional and printed on surfaces such as paper. The field now includes electronic media.

Is Graphic Communication Advertising?

Advertising is visual communication intended to sell a product or service. Graphic Communication is more promotional by way of informing viewers and conveying information. Both fields share the intention of using visual form to convey concepts. Graphic communication also known as graphic design includes a wider range of areas such as packaging, production, technology, and social issues. Advertising is based off of business and marketing strategies. It might include a variety of formats such as print, TV, and outdoor advertisements. Graphic communication is the main emphasis in our program, however students are encouraged to pursue a direction they wish to explore and advertisements are included in coursework.

Note: Students enrolled in the Bachelor of Science degree program can select Art and Design Graphic Communication as a major and minor in Marketing or Business Management. The minor is required to be outside of the school of Art and Design. Advertising courses are available in the College of Business.

What is the difference between Graphic Communication and Electronic Imaging?

Graphic Communication deals more with print-based media while Electronic Imaging deals with multimedia (animation, web, and 4-d work). Both programs do, however, share responsibility for web design. There is some overlap between the programs and graphic communication students take two of the electronic imaging courses if they are seeking a BFA degree.

What technology do graphic communication students learn?

Most of the software learned in graphic communication deals with print production as well as web. Adobe Photoshop CS, Adobe Illustrator CS, Quark XPress, Macromedia Dreamweaver, and Macromedia Flash are covered throughout the courses. All students lease on a two–year cycle MacBooks. Software and a wireless connection are supplied. Our labs have printers, scanners and camera equipment check-out. Printing is charged per sheet.

What is the difference between a BFA and BS or BA degree?

The BFA degree includes 40 credits in liberal studies with 87 credits in Art and Design. This degree includes the most art and design classes with a studio emphasis.

The BS and BA degrees include 40 credits in liberal studies and 63 credits in Art and Design, plus a 20 credit minor out side of the School of Art and department. The BA requires a language minor, the BS includes all other minors not in language. These degree choices allow a studio art major to diversify their knowledge with another discipline.

What are the costs of the Program?

While all students lease a computer and it is a primary tool, there are many art supplies that will be needed for graphic communication as well as other courses. Printing and mounting projects takes up the bulk of the cost. Printing is available and is charged per sheet.

Do I need a portfolio to become and Art and Design Graphics Communication major?

No. If you are accepted at Northern Michigan University you can immediately enter the program, taking the AD 118 Introduction to Graphic Communication course if it is available.

There are also freshman scholarships available- for specific information on requirements and deadlines check on-line at: http://art.nmu.edu/department/ad_info_scholar.html

What opportunities are available outside of the program?

The Art and Design Internship course is available as an elective to junior students. Students find there own positions typically during the summer. Students find internships and or freelance design work both locally and at home. Many graphic design jobs are available on the NMU campus. Work obtained before graduation expands the learning process and aids in securing a job upon graduation.

Are there jobs in the field when I graduate?

Absolutely. There are numerous occupations available to Graphic Communications students from design firms to ad agencies, packaging to printing, web design and in television. Starting salaries range from $32,000 to 38,000 and go up from there based on levels of experience and portfolio work.

Should graphic designers go to graduate school?

Some students choose to enter graduate programs. Those interested in teaching graphic design enter MFA degree programs across the country.