When there is a need to communicate a message to an audience, whether it be through books, magazines, posters or packaging, there is a need for a talented graphic designer.

Graphic designers are artists who apply their talents to solving the visual communications problems of their clients. A diverse and rewarding field, graphic designers find work in corporations, government agencies and advertising and design firms; others choose to work independently as freelancers. DCAD’s graphic design major provides students with a foundation in the principles, history, theory and professional practices of design and prepares them for further study at a four-year institution. Guided by a faculty of both professional designers and design educators, students explore various approaches and solutions to design problems while learning to develop and articulate their own unique visions as designers and artists. Wilmington’s significant corporate presence also affords students the opportunity to interact with the professional design community and to work on real client-based projects in the classroom.

The objectives of the graphic design major are:
• To offer students an intensive design education and provide them with the tools necessary to build on that experience;
• To enable students to combine traditional design concepts with the latest technology so as to be effective graphic designers in today’s environment;
• To develop a core of knowledge preparing students for advanced study; and,
• To provide students with a portfolio of work demonstrating professional competencies.

See an outline of courses and course descriptions for Graphic Design. (PDF)