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Home > Academics > Academic Programs > Graphic Communication (BA)

Graphic Communication (BA) Program Overview

Are you an artist with an eye for compelling design? Do you celebrate the power of persuasive writing? What may seem like separate skills are the foundation for an exciting career. Our graphic communication program combines art and design across cultures and history in addition to business, marketing, and communication courses. You’ll master industry-standard digital software and hardware in small classes and one-on-one faculty mentors with industry experience.

Top-Notch Tools of the Trade

Choose Bluefield University for graphic design, and you’ll have the opportunity to gain real-world experience through internships paired with your studies. By the time you’re a senior, you’ll have created a portfolio showcasing your abilities and personal artistic vision. “Whatever your passion may be, there is a need for a graphic communicator within that field,” says professor Allen Roberts.

Are you ready to transform your creativity into a fulfilling career in graphic communications? Complete the information request form and schedule a campus visit to discuss your future. While you’re on campus, be sure to check out our students’ work on display!

The Academic Catalog is the student’s guide to all policies and procedures for Bluefield University.

Tuition: On-Campus Tuition & Fees
Next Start: August 16, 2023 (On-Campus)
Time to Complete: 4 years

Learn how to save on your degree

Courses & Requirements

Bachelor's Degree (BA)
General Education (52 Credits)

General Education requirements may be fulfilled in more specific courses for certain majors

  • Intro to Writing Perspective
  • Argumentative & Analytical Writing
  • Literature (3 Credits)
  • Biblical Perspectives
  • World Civilization I or II
  • US History I or II
  • (Choose One)
    • General Biology w/ Lab
    • General Chemistry w/ Lab
    • Intro to Organic & Biochemistry w/ Lab
  • Additional Science (3 Credits)
  • (Choose One)
    • Human Biology w/ Lab
    • Anatomy & Physiology w/ Lab
  • Introduction to Psychology
  • Fine Arts (3 Credits)
  • Fundamentals of Speech
  • College Algebra I
  • Additional Math (3 Credits)
  • Principles of Macroeconomics
  • Invitation to Inquiry
  • Personal Wellness
  • Character Formation
  • Civic & Global Response
Core Requirements (45 Credits)
  • Art Requirements
    • Drawing Fundamentals
    • Design Problems
    • Art Appreciation
    • Intro to Graphic Design (Photoshop & Illustrator)
    • Studies in Modern Art
    • Contemporary Art History & Criticism
    • Portfolio Presentation
  • Communication Requirements
    • Mass Communication
    • Media Writing
    • Journalism
    • Media & Society
    • Public Relations I
    • Media Law
    • Media Ethics
    • Publishing with InDesign
    • Trends in Web Design and Internship
Electives (23 Credits)
Total Credits: 120

Career opportunities available to graduates of this program include:

Multimedia Designer
Layout Artist
Logo Designer
Photo Editor/Artist
Brand Identity Designer

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Do I only apply once?

  • No. Students must apply each academic year for the fall semester and submit the necessary documents.

Do I have to take the classes specified in the Associate's Degree tracks as they are listed on the information sheet?

  • No. Students may take any of the courses that are offered in a given term.

Where do I find the textbook listing, and where do I purchase the books?

  • Log in to myBU, and under the "Student" tab, you will find a list of the textbooks required (if any) for each course. Students are responsible for purchasing their own textbooks.

How long is a semester?

  • Our semesters are divided into two 8-week terms.

Is there an orientation?

  • Yes. Students can attend an orientation session that explains how to access courses, how to register for classes, and answers other questions.

Where can I find a course description?

Does the student need to take the SAT or ACT in order to take Dual Enrollment classes?

  • No. If a student decides to study at BU full time, BU is currently test-optional for the 2021-2022 admissions cycle.

Are the classes live? Do students need to log in and participate at certain times?

  • Classes are offered online, so a student can log-on and study at their convenience and their own pace. Students have assignments due each week; you can complete your assignments at any point in time before the deadline.

Does an Early College student need to come to campus for anything?

  • No. However, we would love to have you visit our campus if you are interested in continuing with traditional on-campus study. Students who complete their associate's degree have the option to walk at our commencement ceremony.

Are Early College students able to receive Financial Aid?

  • No. However, Early College courses are very affordable compared to other options. The cost for an online Dual Enrollment course is $100 per credit hour.

How do transferring credits work?

  • Each College or University completes a transcript review in order to decide which courses transfer. Sticking to general education classes generally makes transferring credits simple. All Early College courses at Bluefield University are general education classes that should transfer to another accredited institution.

Is an Early College student considered, and treated, as a transfer student when they become a full-time college student if they have earned enough credits to be a Junior?

  • No. Since they have not graduated from high school, they are considered a first-time college student regardless of how many credits transfer. However, by transferring credits when they enroll as a full-time student, they will have to take fewer classes to receive their bachelor's degree, which shortens the length of time to earn the degree.

Can I speak to someone if I have more questions?

  • Yes. Please contact the Office of Admissions by email or you can call them at 276.326.4231

 

Meet our core Counseling faculty

Dr. Challen Mabry

Assistant Professor of Counseling

Dr. Kristen Moran

Associate Professor of Counseling

Brandy Smith

Assistant Professor of Education & Counseling,
Director of the Master of Arts in Counseling Program,
Title IX Confidential Counselor

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