Bachelor of Fine Arts 4.5 years: Graphic Design
for complete information visit : graphic design website
Download BFA Graphic Design Major Form
Download BFA Graphic Design Planning Form
Download BA Graphic Design Major Form
Download BA Graphic Design Planning Form
Download Graphic Design Minor Form
Download Graphic Design 105 Portfolio Review Instructions
Download Graphic Design 104 Portfolio Review Instructions

The Graphic Design Program provides professional preparation supported by university wide general education that conforms to national expectations. The program is composed to balance initial broad accessibility for students from diverse backgrounds with high professional expectations of its graduates. The beginning courses are open to incoming students after completing a series of core art prerequisites either through transferring from a community college or entering as freshman from high school. Portfolio reviews for admission into the more advanced upper part of the program ensures well-qualified graduates.

The introductory courses focus on the integration of traditional mid- European, twentieth-century visual communication theory and history, and the computer-based technical skills of the last 15 years. The upper part of the program narrows the field to more specific areas of study, i.e. corporate identity/branding, annuals, information design, interface and interactive design, etc. Preparation involves both theoretical and practical study, emphasizing problem solving and critical thinking, form giving and design process, presentation and technological facility, and participatory and communication skills. Over the last three decades, due to its location in Silicon Valley, the program has gained from and contributed to the development of the Bay Area as a major international center of communications/information design. Graduates play a significant role in the Bay Area while competing for placement with national and international talent. The program has established itself in the highest regard, most notably in the Bay Area, with some recognition statewide.

At the end of the fall term in their sophomore or junior year, all students who plan to enter the program apply to an advisory portfolio review, where they receive an evaluation of work just completed in an introductory course, DSGD 104. A second course, DSGD 105, is taken during the spring. These reviews are conducted by full-time and part-time faculty teaching these courses, and allow evaluation and adjustment to the content of individual courses as well as the level of expectation of student performance. Interaction with the profession, student internship placements and, most importantly, professional success of graduates provide continuing proof of results.

For more information contact:
Deborah Wijas
Design Secretary
ART 118
School of Art and Design
San Jose State University
One Washington Square
San Jose, CA 95192-0089
Phone: (408) 924 -4343
Fax: (408) 924-4326
Email:Deborah.Wijas@sjsu.edu

For complete information on art and design program requirements, see the College of Humanities and the Arts, School of Art and Design in the San Jose State University catalog.