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A student sits at a desk looking at a laptop. Next to the student are printed papers with graphic design on them.

The communications design program integrates academic study with the highest standards of professional practice through entrepreneurial, project-based learning.

This discipline is focused on conceptual thinking and creative problem-solving that results in targeted visual solutions displayed across a range of media. In addition to developing design expertise, students are trained to become adept in presenting, critiquing and modeling professional behavior.

The communications design program allows the exploration and execution of all aspects reflective of the wide array of opportunities in the professional design industry including: advertising, art direction, branding, copywriting, editorial design, publication design, exhibition design, graphic design, information design, packaging, interactive, web, app and UX/UI design.

A student stands at a table working on assembling a booklet. On the table is a water bottle and pages of the booklet.

What is the difference between communications design and graphic design? A graphic designer creates specific graphic or visual elements while a communications designer builds a comprehensive strategy and uses graphic design as a tool to communicate a broader message to an audience. Communications designers seek to attract, inspire and motivate people to respond with favorable impact through visual communication.

In this bachelor of fine arts (B.F.A.) degree program, ranked among the top design schools by Graphic Design USA, coursework explores the creative process, communication methods and project management in addition to illustration, photography, typography and production processes.

Graduates of our program work as designers, art directors, and creative directors at some of the leading companies and agencies in the country including CBX, Chermayeff & Geismar Associates, Landor & Associates, Pentagram, Apple, Major League Baseball, Citi, Havas Health, McCann, Bloomberg, The New York Times, GQ, Wired and more.

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Video: Following in Alumni Footsteps

Yesmine Chikha chose the communications design program after a recommendation from a recent graduate.

Watch the video

Program Highlights

Curriculum

The 120-credit curriculum includes major and academic requirements as well as studio and academic electives. As one of our students, you will be assigned a professional academic advisor who will guide you through your academic career and help you navigate class schedules, course selection and more.

A student holds a piece of paper with images printed on it.

Global Study

You may study abroad at Syracuse University's center in London, England, in the spring semester of your third year. The program offers the opportunity to take courses in design and design history complemented by studio and academic electives.

A student stands in front of the London Bridge.

Career Exploration

In addition to the career exploration opportunities offered by their major, communications design students have access to career advisors and services through the College of Visual and Performing Arts’ Office of Academic and Career Advising. The office connects VPA students with networking events, mentors and more.

Students stand at a table looking at portfolios of design work.

M.A. "+1" Degree in Design

Did you know that School of Design B.F.A. and B.S. students can earn a master of arts (M.A.) in design in only one additional year? You apply for the program in your junior year and take two graduate-level classes in your senior year. You then participate in a short summer “bootcamp” and finish the M.A. in just one year after earning your undergraduate degree.

Nancy Cantor Warehouse exterior looking up at the sky.

New Talent Preview

At the end of each academic year, the communications design program presents the portfolios of the senior class in a New Talent Preview. Check out the work of our recent graduates!

2025 New Talent Preview

2024 New Talent Preview

2023 New Talent Preview

A coffee cup, notebook, and pieces of paper, all in a similar design.