BA in Visual Communications: Course Curriculum for a BA in Visual Communications

Published Sep 10, 2009

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Visual images are used everywhere to communicate meaning or ideas. Exit and directional signs, advertisements, web pages and even the graphics on your cell phone are examples of Visual Communications. A Bachelor of Arts program in Visual Communications will provide students with an understanding of how to use visual images as a form of communication. This article provides and overview of the course curriculum for a B.A. in Visual Communications.

Course Curriculum for a Bachelor of Arts in Visual Communications

A Bachelor of Arts in Visual Communications prepares students for careers in a variety of industries, including design firms, advertising agencies, marketing firms, publishing companies and television studios. Visual Communications designers work on print media, develop product packaging or create multimedia applications. Students learn to use aesthetics and technology to create images that solve a problem or relay a message. Following are descriptions of typical courses included in the curriculum of a B.A. in Visual Communications program:

  • Fundamentals of Design: The foundations of Visual Communications, structure, form, 2-demensional and 3-demensional drawing are explored.
  • History of Design: Students explore art history and the evolution of Visual Communications.
  • Typography: Terminology and history of type is covered along with the use of type as a graphic image.
  • Color Theory and Composition: Students study how to use color in creating Visual Communications.
  • Interactive and Web Design: Courses focus on concepts applied to web and Internet design and other interactive media.
  • Print and Publication Design: Students learn to apply concepts of Visual Communications to printed matter.
  • Symbol Design: Course cover the creation and use of symbols to convey information or meaning.
  • Environmental Design: Students explore issues of navigation, wayfinding, exhibition or signage.
  • Information Design: The development and use of charts, graphs, tables and directories are studied.
  • Portfolio Design: Students work to build a professional portfolio throughout their course of study.

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