Graphic Design

Discover your love for design and dive into your own personal style with Graceland’s art degree in graphic design.

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Unlock Your Creativity with an Art Degree in Graphic Design

Students who major in art at Graceland have the opportunity to develop the well-rounded skills necessary for creative expression. Whether their passion is illustration or web development, Graceland students are able to study in a first-class environment that emphasizes design fundamentals while allowing them to explore their creativity.

For those who major in the art field, with a graphic design emphasis, your course offerings will range from drawing and printmaking to typography and web design. Logos, package design, newsletter, and magazine layouts are just a few of the types of projects a graphic design major will experience. You'll get your hands on any and all forms of graphic design you may be interested in.

Graceland’s small student-to-faculty ratio gives graphic design majors personalization and critique that leads to high levels of placement in internships and jobs after graduation. Graceland’s liberal arts campus environment encourages students to think critically in many areas of thought, so they have room to pursue other interests like the arts and athletics while working toward their degree.

Offerings
Major, Minor
Field of Study
Art, Visual & Performing Arts
Format
Lamoni Campus
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The visual arts faculty and Helene Center facility provided an opportunity for me to express my creativity and develop my skills while preparing me for a career in graphic design. I found our critiques to be valuable because they pushed me to improve my work and consider different perspectives
Ian Wilson '20 Graphic Designer at Menufy Art: Graphic Design
Design Major Curriculum

Graphic Design is one of two tracks available under the Art major. In order to complete this program, you must complete both the core requirements for an Art major, and the Graphic Design emphasis requirements.

  • BA Degree - Art: Core Requirements

    In addition to the general education requirements, students majoring in Art will complete either a studio or graphic design track. Each track is 36 credits as prescribed below:

    Core classes required for both tracks:

    Pick one art history course (General Education Requirement):

    Pick one studio course:

    Courses Offered
    • ARTS1210Making and Meaning
      ARTS1210 Making and Meaning - 3 s.h.

      Students will explore a variety of techniques and concepts that focus on the generation, development, and communication of new ideas through exploration of the principles and elements of design in relation two-dimensional design and color theory. This course explores the relationship of material, method, and process in the construction of meaning in art. Students experiment with interdisciplinary research methods to generate projects reflecting current topics of interest.  Studio fee required. ELO5 Arts - Innovation

    • ARTS1230Drawing
      ARTS1230 Drawing - 3 s.h.

      This introductory course considers drawing as a form of communication and a sustaining practice. Various drawing materials, observation, memory training, and composition are stressed to give the student a wide experience and solid base in the art, skill, and history of drawing. Contemporary and non-traditional drawing methods will be explored. Studio fee required. ELO5 Arts - Sustainability

    • ARTS1680Graphic Design 1
      ARTS1680 Graphic Design 1 - 3 s.h.

      A technical course exploring the digital tools used in the graphic design industry. Students are exposed to the function, theory, and use of industry-standard computer hardware, software, and basic digital design principles utilized in the production of graphic design. 

    • ARTS2250Painting
      ARTS2250 Painting - 3 s.h.

      This course serves as an introduction to the materials, philosophies, techniques, and processes of painting. Students will work with acrylic paint and mediums and approach the creative experience of painting through the study of subject matter, form, and content. Color theory, sketching, and different painting techniques and styles will be emphasized. An emphasis on interdisciplinary and contemporary approaches will be stressed.  Studio Fee required.

    • ARTS2330Art History: Innovation and Politics
      ARTS2330 Art History: Innovation and Politics - 3 s.h.

      Theme-based art history course exploring topics such as innovation, power, politics, architecture, entertainment, sacred spaces, sustainability, and eco art throughout art history to the present. ELO5 Arts - Innovation, GE3A Liberal Learning-Arts.

    • ARTS3110Art History: Activism, Empathy and Justice
      ARTS3110 Art History: Activism, Empathy and Justice - 3 s.h.

      Theme-based art history course that explores topics such as activism, empathy, justice, disability, mental illness, feminism, sexuality, queer art, social and civic engagement, labor, and race throughout art history to the present. ELO5 Arts - Equality, ELO5 Arts - Equality and Peace, GE3A Liberal Learning-Arts.

    • ARTS3200Printmaking
      ARTS3200 Printmaking - 3 s.h.

      This introductory printmaking making course introduces students to non-toxic printmaking techniques including relief printing, monotype, silkscreen, and other contemporary processes. The course explores how these traditional methods have been used as a means for informing, gathering, protesting, and celebration.  Studio Fee required. ELO5 Arts - Innovation

    • ARTS4700Senior Exhibition
      ARTS4700 Senior Exhibition - 3 s.h.

      A required senior- level course where students identify and critically reflect on a theme that intersects with their own studio practice, or discipline. This course supplements preparations for the capstone exhibition through the analysis of area exhibitions, providing hands-on experience in the mechanics of exhibition production. Portfolio development and professional practices will be emphasized.  Permission from instructor required.

    ARTS1210Making and Meaning ARTS1230Drawing ARTS1680Graphic Design 1 ARTS2250Painting ARTS2330Art History: Innovation and Politics ARTS3110Art History: Activism, Empathy and Justice ARTS3200Printmaking ARTS4700Senior Exhibition
    Course Descriptions
    ARTS1210 Making and Meaning - 3 s.h.

    Students will explore a variety of techniques and concepts that focus on the generation, development, and communication of new ideas through exploration of the principles and elements of design in relation two-dimensional design and color theory. This course explores the relationship of material, method, and process in the construction of meaning in art. Students experiment with interdisciplinary research methods to generate projects reflecting current topics of interest.  Studio fee required. ELO5 Arts - Innovation

    ARTS1230 Drawing - 3 s.h.

    This introductory course considers drawing as a form of communication and a sustaining practice. Various drawing materials, observation, memory training, and composition are stressed to give the student a wide experience and solid base in the art, skill, and history of drawing. Contemporary and non-traditional drawing methods will be explored. Studio fee required. ELO5 Arts - Sustainability

    ARTS1680 Graphic Design 1 - 3 s.h.

    A technical course exploring the digital tools used in the graphic design industry. Students are exposed to the function, theory, and use of industry-standard computer hardware, software, and basic digital design principles utilized in the production of graphic design. 

    ARTS2250 Painting - 3 s.h.

    This course serves as an introduction to the materials, philosophies, techniques, and processes of painting. Students will work with acrylic paint and mediums and approach the creative experience of painting through the study of subject matter, form, and content. Color theory, sketching, and different painting techniques and styles will be emphasized. An emphasis on interdisciplinary and contemporary approaches will be stressed.  Studio Fee required.

    ARTS2330 Art History: Innovation and Politics - 3 s.h.

    Theme-based art history course exploring topics such as innovation, power, politics, architecture, entertainment, sacred spaces, sustainability, and eco art throughout art history to the present. ELO5 Arts - Innovation, GE3A Liberal Learning-Arts.

    ARTS3110 Art History: Activism, Empathy and Justice - 3 s.h.

    Theme-based art history course that explores topics such as activism, empathy, justice, disability, mental illness, feminism, sexuality, queer art, social and civic engagement, labor, and race throughout art history to the present. ELO5 Arts - Equality, ELO5 Arts - Equality and Peace, GE3A Liberal Learning-Arts.

    ARTS3200 Printmaking - 3 s.h.

    This introductory printmaking making course introduces students to non-toxic printmaking techniques including relief printing, monotype, silkscreen, and other contemporary processes. The course explores how these traditional methods have been used as a means for informing, gathering, protesting, and celebration.  Studio Fee required. ELO5 Arts - Innovation

    ARTS4700 Senior Exhibition - 3 s.h.

    A required senior- level course where students identify and critically reflect on a theme that intersects with their own studio practice, or discipline. This course supplements preparations for the capstone exhibition through the analysis of area exhibitions, providing hands-on experience in the mechanics of exhibition production. Portfolio development and professional practices will be emphasized.  Permission from instructor required.

  • BA Degree - Graphic Design Track Requirements

    Graphic Design Track

    In addition to the core courses, Graphic Design students will take additional coursework outlined below:

    Courses Offered
    • ARTS1710Graphic Design 2
      ARTS1710 Graphic Design 2 - 3 s.h.

      Covers basic principles of typography, such as type anatomy, type fonts and families, communication with typography and an introduction to layout and grid structures. Typography as medium and message and conceptual solutions are emphasized. Additional fee required. Prerequisite: ARTS1680 Computer Graphic Design 1.

    • ARTS3220Photography
      ARTS3220 Photography - 3 s.h.

      An exploration into visual story telling through digital photography, imaging, and editing. Course will focus on capturing high quality images to use in professional design work. Studio Fee required.

    • ARTS3620Illustration and Imaging
      ARTS3620 Illustration and Imaging - 3 s.h.

      Exploration into image making and visual story telling with an emphasis in illustration, blending digital and traditional technology. Additional fee required. Prerequisites: ARTS1210, ARTS1680 and ARTS1710.

    • ARTS3630Graphic Design 3
      ARTS3630 Graphic Design 3 - 3 s.h.

      Study of the integration of type and image through multi-level designs, such as multi page layouts, and identity systems. Additional fee required. Prerequisite: ARTS1680 and ARTS1710. 

    • ARTS3640Interactive Design
      ARTS3640 Interactive Design - 3 s.h.

      Introduction into the principles of interactivity through interface, web, and information design. Additional fee required. Prerequisite: ARTS1210, ARTS1680 and ARTS1710.

    • COMM2500Introduction to Mass Media
      COMM2500 Introduction to Mass Media - 3 s.h.

      An examination of the various landmark theories, such as rhetorical, Marxist, and feminist to analyze popular culture, with an emphasis on the importance of communication in the production and consumption of culture. Students will study the development of culture by applying different theories or 'lenses' to cultural artifacts including music, movies, advertisements, clothing, etc. GE3C Liberal Learning-Humanities +This course is only offered every other year.

    • COMM3140Rhetorical Criticism and Persuasion
      COMM3140 Rhetorical Criticism and Persuasion - 3 s.h.

      An emphasis in learning theories, information processing theories, perception theories, components of persuasive appeals, and the ethics involved in persuasion. Further, students will examine the theories and persuasive appeals involved in communication campaigns and critique the success, or lack thereof, of multiple persuasive strategies. +This course is only offered every other year.

    • CSIT1060Introduction to Web Programming
      CSIT1060 Introduction to Web Programming - 3 s.h.

      Basics of how the World Wide Web works and web site construction using HTML and CSS. Related technology skills will be covered.

    ARTS1710Graphic Design 2 ARTS3220Photography ARTS3620Illustration and Imaging ARTS3630Graphic Design 3 ARTS3640Interactive Design COMM2500Introduction to Mass Media COMM3140Rhetorical Criticism and Persuasion CSIT1060Introduction to Web Programming
    Course Descriptions
    ARTS1710 Graphic Design 2 - 3 s.h.

    Covers basic principles of typography, such as type anatomy, type fonts and families, communication with typography and an introduction to layout and grid structures. Typography as medium and message and conceptual solutions are emphasized. Additional fee required. Prerequisite: ARTS1680 Computer Graphic Design 1.

    ARTS3220 Photography - 3 s.h.

    An exploration into visual story telling through digital photography, imaging, and editing. Course will focus on capturing high quality images to use in professional design work. Studio Fee required.

    ARTS3620 Illustration and Imaging - 3 s.h.

    Exploration into image making and visual story telling with an emphasis in illustration, blending digital and traditional technology. Additional fee required. Prerequisites: ARTS1210, ARTS1680 and ARTS1710.

    ARTS3630 Graphic Design 3 - 3 s.h.

    Study of the integration of type and image through multi-level designs, such as multi page layouts, and identity systems. Additional fee required. Prerequisite: ARTS1680 and ARTS1710. 

    ARTS3640 Interactive Design - 3 s.h.

    Introduction into the principles of interactivity through interface, web, and information design. Additional fee required. Prerequisite: ARTS1210, ARTS1680 and ARTS1710.

    COMM2500 Introduction to Mass Media - 3 s.h.

    An examination of the various landmark theories, such as rhetorical, Marxist, and feminist to analyze popular culture, with an emphasis on the importance of communication in the production and consumption of culture. Students will study the development of culture by applying different theories or 'lenses' to cultural artifacts including music, movies, advertisements, clothing, etc. GE3C Liberal Learning-Humanities +This course is only offered every other year.

    COMM3140 Rhetorical Criticism and Persuasion - 3 s.h.

    An emphasis in learning theories, information processing theories, perception theories, components of persuasive appeals, and the ethics involved in persuasion. Further, students will examine the theories and persuasive appeals involved in communication campaigns and critique the success, or lack thereof, of multiple persuasive strategies. +This course is only offered every other year.

    CSIT1060 Introduction to Web Programming - 3 s.h.

    Basics of how the World Wide Web works and web site construction using HTML and CSS. Related technology skills will be covered.

  • Graphic Design Minor

    In addition to the essential education requirements, minors in Art: Graphic Design must complete 18 semester hours as prescribed below:

    Courses Offered
    • ARTS1210Making and Meaning
      ARTS1210 Making and Meaning - 3 s.h.

      Students will explore a variety of techniques and concepts that focus on the generation, development, and communication of new ideas through exploration of the principles and elements of design in relation two-dimensional design and color theory. This course explores the relationship of material, method, and process in the construction of meaning in art. Students experiment with interdisciplinary research methods to generate projects reflecting current topics of interest.  Studio fee required. ELO5 Arts - Innovation

    • ARTS1680Graphic Design 1
      ARTS1680 Graphic Design 1 - 3 s.h.

      A technical course exploring the digital tools used in the graphic design industry. Students are exposed to the function, theory, and use of industry-standard computer hardware, software, and basic digital design principles utilized in the production of graphic design. 

    • ARTS1710Graphic Design 2
      ARTS1710 Graphic Design 2 - 3 s.h.

      Covers basic principles of typography, such as type anatomy, type fonts and families, communication with typography and an introduction to layout and grid structures. Typography as medium and message and conceptual solutions are emphasized. Additional fee required. Prerequisite: ARTS1680 Computer Graphic Design 1.

    • ARTS3630Graphic Design 3
      ARTS3630 Graphic Design 3 - 3 s.h.

      Study of the integration of type and image through multi-level designs, such as multi page layouts, and identity systems. Additional fee required. Prerequisite: ARTS1680 and ARTS1710. 

    • COMM2500Introduction to Mass Media
      COMM2500 Introduction to Mass Media - 3 s.h.

      An examination of the various landmark theories, such as rhetorical, Marxist, and feminist to analyze popular culture, with an emphasis on the importance of communication in the production and consumption of culture. Students will study the development of culture by applying different theories or 'lenses' to cultural artifacts including music, movies, advertisements, clothing, etc. GE3C Liberal Learning-Humanities +This course is only offered every other year.

    • COMM3140Rhetorical Criticism and Persuasion
      COMM3140 Rhetorical Criticism and Persuasion - 3 s.h.

      An emphasis in learning theories, information processing theories, perception theories, components of persuasive appeals, and the ethics involved in persuasion. Further, students will examine the theories and persuasive appeals involved in communication campaigns and critique the success, or lack thereof, of multiple persuasive strategies. +This course is only offered every other year.

    ARTS1210Making and Meaning ARTS1680Graphic Design 1 ARTS1710Graphic Design 2 ARTS3630Graphic Design 3 COMM2500Introduction to Mass Media COMM3140Rhetorical Criticism and Persuasion
    Course Descriptions
    ARTS1210 Making and Meaning - 3 s.h.

    Students will explore a variety of techniques and concepts that focus on the generation, development, and communication of new ideas through exploration of the principles and elements of design in relation two-dimensional design and color theory. This course explores the relationship of material, method, and process in the construction of meaning in art. Students experiment with interdisciplinary research methods to generate projects reflecting current topics of interest.  Studio fee required. ELO5 Arts - Innovation

    ARTS1680 Graphic Design 1 - 3 s.h.

    A technical course exploring the digital tools used in the graphic design industry. Students are exposed to the function, theory, and use of industry-standard computer hardware, software, and basic digital design principles utilized in the production of graphic design. 

    ARTS1710 Graphic Design 2 - 3 s.h.

    Covers basic principles of typography, such as type anatomy, type fonts and families, communication with typography and an introduction to layout and grid structures. Typography as medium and message and conceptual solutions are emphasized. Additional fee required. Prerequisite: ARTS1680 Computer Graphic Design 1.

    ARTS3630 Graphic Design 3 - 3 s.h.

    Study of the integration of type and image through multi-level designs, such as multi page layouts, and identity systems. Additional fee required. Prerequisite: ARTS1680 and ARTS1710. 

    COMM2500 Introduction to Mass Media - 3 s.h.

    An examination of the various landmark theories, such as rhetorical, Marxist, and feminist to analyze popular culture, with an emphasis on the importance of communication in the production and consumption of culture. Students will study the development of culture by applying different theories or 'lenses' to cultural artifacts including music, movies, advertisements, clothing, etc. GE3C Liberal Learning-Humanities +This course is only offered every other year.

    COMM3140 Rhetorical Criticism and Persuasion - 3 s.h.

    An emphasis in learning theories, information processing theories, perception theories, components of persuasive appeals, and the ethics involved in persuasion. Further, students will examine the theories and persuasive appeals involved in communication campaigns and critique the success, or lack thereof, of multiple persuasive strategies. +This course is only offered every other year.

  • Teacher Certification in Art
    1. FOR ART MAJORS WHO WANT A SECONDARY ENDORSEMENT (5-12): Students majoring in Art who desire Iowa Teacher Certification with an Art secondary endorsement must complete all requirements for the BA in Studio Art degree, the Secondary Education Program and ARTS4350 Art for the Secondary School as the appropriate methods course.
    2. FOR ART MAJORS WHO WANT A COMBINATION ENDORSEMENT (K-8 AND 5-12): Students majoring in Art who desire Iowa Teacher Certification with an elementary and secondary Art endorsement must complete all requirements for the BA in Studio Art degree, the Combination Program with ARTS3300 Art for the Elementary School and ARTS4350 Art for the Secondary School as the appropriate methods courses.
    3. FOR ART MAJORS WHO WANT AN ELEMENTARY ENDORSEMENT (K-8). Students majoring in Art who desire Iowa Teacher Certification with a K-8 Art endorsement must complete all requirements for the BA in Studio Art degree, the Secondary Education Program (5-12 grade level requirements), substituting ARTS3300 and EDUC4400 for ARTS4350 and EDUC4420, respectively.
    4. FOR NON-ART MAJORS WHO WANT A SECONDARY ART ENDORSEMENT (5-12). Non-art majors desiring a secondary Art endorsement (5-12) in Iowa must complete a major in a secondary teaching field, the Secondary Education Program with ARTS4350 Art for the Secondary School as the appropriate methods course, and the following courses:
    Courses Offered
    • ARTS1210Making and Meaning
      ARTS1210 Making and Meaning - 3 s.h.

      Students will explore a variety of techniques and concepts that focus on the generation, development, and communication of new ideas through exploration of the principles and elements of design in relation two-dimensional design and color theory. This course explores the relationship of material, method, and process in the construction of meaning in art. Students experiment with interdisciplinary research methods to generate projects reflecting current topics of interest.  Studio fee required. ELO5 Arts - Innovation

    • ARTS1220Surface, Space, and Time
      ARTS1220 Surface, Space, and Time - 3 s.h.

      Introduction to surface, space, and time as an artistic medium. Lectures, readings, demonstrations, and hands-on projects help students identify and understand surface, space, and time-based principles in art and design. Emphasis will be places on three-dimensional and four-dimensional narrative and visual storytelling practices.  Studio Fee required. ELO5 Arts - Innovation

    • ARTS1230Drawing
      ARTS1230 Drawing - 3 s.h.

      This introductory course considers drawing as a form of communication and a sustaining practice. Various drawing materials, observation, memory training, and composition are stressed to give the student a wide experience and solid base in the art, skill, and history of drawing. Contemporary and non-traditional drawing methods will be explored. Studio fee required. ELO5 Arts - Sustainability

    • ARTS2250Painting
      ARTS2250 Painting - 3 s.h.

      This course serves as an introduction to the materials, philosophies, techniques, and processes of painting. Students will work with acrylic paint and mediums and approach the creative experience of painting through the study of subject matter, form, and content. Color theory, sketching, and different painting techniques and styles will be emphasized. An emphasis on interdisciplinary and contemporary approaches will be stressed.  Studio Fee required.

    • ARTS2330Art History: Innovation and Politics
      ARTS2330 Art History: Innovation and Politics - 3 s.h.

      Theme-based art history course exploring topics such as innovation, power, politics, architecture, entertainment, sacred spaces, sustainability, and eco art throughout art history to the present. ELO5 Arts - Innovation, GE3A Liberal Learning-Arts.

    • ARTS2900Topics in Art
      ARTS2900 Topics in Art - 1-3 s.h.

      Special topics in art. May be repeated for credit as topics vary. Content and semester hours will vary. Prerequisites may apply. Additional fee required.

    • ARTS3110Art History: Activism, Empathy and Justice
      ARTS3110 Art History: Activism, Empathy and Justice - 3 s.h.

      Theme-based art history course that explores topics such as activism, empathy, justice, disability, mental illness, feminism, sexuality, queer art, social and civic engagement, labor, and race throughout art history to the present. ELO5 Arts - Equality, ELO5 Arts - Equality and Peace, GE3A Liberal Learning-Arts.

    • ARTS3200Printmaking
      ARTS3200 Printmaking - 3 s.h.

      This introductory printmaking making course introduces students to non-toxic printmaking techniques including relief printing, monotype, silkscreen, and other contemporary processes. The course explores how these traditional methods have been used as a means for informing, gathering, protesting, and celebration.  Studio Fee required. ELO5 Arts - Innovation

    • ARTS3240Eco Art & Ceramics
      ARTS3240 Eco Art & Ceramics - 3 s.h.

      Contemporary and traditional approaches to clay with emphasis on wheel-throwing and hand-building techniques. Exploration of sustainable production practices will also address surface decoration and responsible firing processes. Studio fee required. ELO5 Arts - Sustainability

    • ARTS3280Sculpture and New Genres
      ARTS3280 Sculpture and New Genres - 3 s.h.

      In this course students explore basic methods of creating physical objects. Develops the integration of sculptural concept and practice, and the critical analysis of completed sculpture through a series of projects that investigate sculptural processes and issues. Lectures on directions in sculpture, technical demonstrations, and group critiques are scheduled. Studio fee required.

    • ARTS3300Art for the Elementary Schools
      ARTS3300 Art for the Elementary Schools - 3 s.h.

      Development of knowledge and skills to plan, organize, and facilitate meaningful art curricula for elementary art students, with attention to lesson preparation, child artistic development, material discovery and integration with other subjects. Additional fee required. Prerequisite: admittance into Teacher Education, unless part of an approved Liberal Studies Program, junior standing. +This course is only offered every other year.

    • ARTS4350Art for the Secondary School
      ARTS4350 Art for the Secondary School - 3 s.h.

      Development of knowledge and skills to plan, organize, and facilitate meaningful art curricula for secondary art students with attention to lesson preparation and material discovery. Additional fee required. Prerequisites: admittance into Teacher Education, unless part of an approved Liberal Studies Program. +This course is only offered every other year.

    • EDUC4400Elementary Student Teaching (K-6)
      EDUC4400 Elementary Student Teaching (K-6) - 6-14 s.h.

      Elementary Education Majors complete 14 weeks of elementary student teaching in accordance with the policies in the Teacher Education Handbook. Additional fee required. Prerequisites: Senior standing, admittance into Teacher Education, and approval for student teaching. (Graded on a Pass/Fail basis.) * If a candidate with more than one teaching major completes 14 semester hours of student teaching for one major (or endorsements that require student teaching), an additional six semester hours of student teaching will meet the student teaching requirement for the asterisked second teaching major.

    ARTS1210Making and Meaning ARTS1220Surface, Space, and Time ARTS1230Drawing ARTS2250Painting ARTS2330Art History: Innovation and Politics ARTS2900Topics in Art ARTS3110Art History: Activism, Empathy and Justice ARTS3200Printmaking ARTS3240Eco Art & Ceramics ARTS3280Sculpture and New Genres ARTS3300Art for the Elementary Schools ARTS4350Art for the Secondary School EDUC4400Elementary Student Teaching (K-6)
    Course Descriptions
    ARTS1210 Making and Meaning - 3 s.h.

    Students will explore a variety of techniques and concepts that focus on the generation, development, and communication of new ideas through exploration of the principles and elements of design in relation two-dimensional design and color theory. This course explores the relationship of material, method, and process in the construction of meaning in art. Students experiment with interdisciplinary research methods to generate projects reflecting current topics of interest.  Studio fee required. ELO5 Arts - Innovation

    ARTS1220 Surface, Space, and Time - 3 s.h.

    Introduction to surface, space, and time as an artistic medium. Lectures, readings, demonstrations, and hands-on projects help students identify and understand surface, space, and time-based principles in art and design. Emphasis will be places on three-dimensional and four-dimensional narrative and visual storytelling practices.  Studio Fee required. ELO5 Arts - Innovation

    ARTS1230 Drawing - 3 s.h.

    This introductory course considers drawing as a form of communication and a sustaining practice. Various drawing materials, observation, memory training, and composition are stressed to give the student a wide experience and solid base in the art, skill, and history of drawing. Contemporary and non-traditional drawing methods will be explored. Studio fee required. ELO5 Arts - Sustainability

    ARTS2250 Painting - 3 s.h.

    This course serves as an introduction to the materials, philosophies, techniques, and processes of painting. Students will work with acrylic paint and mediums and approach the creative experience of painting through the study of subject matter, form, and content. Color theory, sketching, and different painting techniques and styles will be emphasized. An emphasis on interdisciplinary and contemporary approaches will be stressed.  Studio Fee required.

    ARTS2330 Art History: Innovation and Politics - 3 s.h.

    Theme-based art history course exploring topics such as innovation, power, politics, architecture, entertainment, sacred spaces, sustainability, and eco art throughout art history to the present. ELO5 Arts - Innovation, GE3A Liberal Learning-Arts.

    ARTS2900 Topics in Art - 1-3 s.h.

    Special topics in art. May be repeated for credit as topics vary. Content and semester hours will vary. Prerequisites may apply. Additional fee required.

    ARTS3110 Art History: Activism, Empathy and Justice - 3 s.h.

    Theme-based art history course that explores topics such as activism, empathy, justice, disability, mental illness, feminism, sexuality, queer art, social and civic engagement, labor, and race throughout art history to the present. ELO5 Arts - Equality, ELO5 Arts - Equality and Peace, GE3A Liberal Learning-Arts.

    ARTS3200 Printmaking - 3 s.h.

    This introductory printmaking making course introduces students to non-toxic printmaking techniques including relief printing, monotype, silkscreen, and other contemporary processes. The course explores how these traditional methods have been used as a means for informing, gathering, protesting, and celebration.  Studio Fee required. ELO5 Arts - Innovation

    ARTS3240 Eco Art & Ceramics - 3 s.h.

    Contemporary and traditional approaches to clay with emphasis on wheel-throwing and hand-building techniques. Exploration of sustainable production practices will also address surface decoration and responsible firing processes. Studio fee required. ELO5 Arts - Sustainability

    ARTS3280 Sculpture and New Genres - 3 s.h.

    In this course students explore basic methods of creating physical objects. Develops the integration of sculptural concept and practice, and the critical analysis of completed sculpture through a series of projects that investigate sculptural processes and issues. Lectures on directions in sculpture, technical demonstrations, and group critiques are scheduled. Studio fee required.

    ARTS3300 Art for the Elementary Schools - 3 s.h.

    Development of knowledge and skills to plan, organize, and facilitate meaningful art curricula for elementary art students, with attention to lesson preparation, child artistic development, material discovery and integration with other subjects. Additional fee required. Prerequisite: admittance into Teacher Education, unless part of an approved Liberal Studies Program, junior standing. +This course is only offered every other year.

    ARTS4350 Art for the Secondary School - 3 s.h.

    Development of knowledge and skills to plan, organize, and facilitate meaningful art curricula for secondary art students with attention to lesson preparation and material discovery. Additional fee required. Prerequisites: admittance into Teacher Education, unless part of an approved Liberal Studies Program. +This course is only offered every other year.

    EDUC4400 Elementary Student Teaching (K-6) - 6-14 s.h.

    Elementary Education Majors complete 14 weeks of elementary student teaching in accordance with the policies in the Teacher Education Handbook. Additional fee required. Prerequisites: Senior standing, admittance into Teacher Education, and approval for student teaching. (Graded on a Pass/Fail basis.) * If a candidate with more than one teaching major completes 14 semester hours of student teaching for one major (or endorsements that require student teaching), an additional six semester hours of student teaching will meet the student teaching requirement for the asterisked second teaching major.

Exceptional Faculty
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Career Growth Ahead

We are surrounded by design every day, even as we walk down the street. It’s evident in our homes and apartment complexes, in our stores, in our gyms, and even in our restaurants. There is room for great designers in many different fields throughout many different industries. A Graphic Design degree from Graceland can help to prepare you for all of those careers, including:

  • Art Directors 
  • Craft and Fine Artists
  • Illustrator
  • Industrial Designers 
  • Fashion Designers
  • Graphic Designers
  • Floral Designers
  • Special Effects Artists and Animators
  • Interior Designers
  • Agency Designers
  • Advertising
  • In-House Marketing

       …and many other exciting fields. 

Why Graceland's Degree in Graphic Design?

When you study graphic design at Graceland, students will develop close mentoring relationships with professors because of the low student-to-faculty ratio. This allows graphic design majors to receive regular portfolio and project critiques from industry professionals. 

Our wide array of interdisciplinary projects gives students the ability to think critically about the future of design and get excited about their own person stamp on the industry.

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Tuition & Aid

99% of students on the Lamoni campus receive financial aid.

As you consider college, you want a simple, easy-to-understand formula designed to ensure that the one-of-a-kind Graceland Experience is within reach for your family. Undergraduate tuition includes our unique Transformational Leadership major, and we offer generous financial aid and scholarships to all of our students, making Graceland as affordable, if not moreso, than most public universities.

Find out more!
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