Turn Creativity into Impact
Build a strong foundation in visual communication, typography and digital design while working with industry-standard tools and real-world projects. Guided by experienced faculty, you’ll develop a professional portfolio that prepares you for careers in branding, advertising, UI/UX and beyond.
State-Of-The-Art Contemporary Program
NDSU’s Graphic Design and Illustration program is an immersive, hands-on experience in visual communication and design thinking. Students learn to research, ideate and create effective design solutions while building skills in both digital and traditional media.
Conceptual thinking & design practice
- Communication theory
- Typography
- Brand identity & packaging
- Illustration & narrative
- Motion graphics
- UX/UI & interactive design
- Printmaking & information design
Capstone: Professional practice, portfolio development and a final exhibition at the Memorial Union Gallery.
Students graduate prepared to:
- Solve visual communication challenges
- Understand client and audience needs
- Critique and refine design work
- Develop a distinctive creative voice
- Build a professional portfolio
Opportunities include internships, participation in the AAF-ND ADDY Awards and the NDAC Advertising Competition.
Located in Renaissance Hall, students collaborate across disciplines including Advertising, Interior Design, ARMD, Architecture and more.
- Strong Fargo-Moorhead internship network
- Faculty mentorship and peer collaboration
- Access to one of the region’s largest design communities
Students engage with professionals through internships, visiting designers and alumni networks.
Graduates have worked at: Microsoft, AdShark, Flint Group, Scheels, Spotlight Media, CoSchedule and more.
- Dedicated studio spaces
- Wacom tablets & large-format printing
- Photography studios & critique spaces
- Darkroom and digital labs
Print + Digital Making
Students work across traditional and emerging technologies:
- Letterpress, screenprinting, lithography
- 3D printing, laser cutting, VR (LAAVA Lab)
- Woodshop, papermaking and fabrication spaces
The final year centers on a self-directed project and professional preparation:
- Portfolio development
- Research + studio practice
- Weekly critiques with faculty and professionals
- Public exhibition and published work