collageWhether or not you’re an art or illustration student, you need to work with clients, and you want them to trust you. Choosing a good logo is the best way to do that—although of course, most professional designers will demonstrate this step-by-step process in their courses. There are all kinds of apps out there that boast ‘feature-packed designs’, but at the end of the day, your design has got to get the job done. So, make sure it does the job, and watch out for the following top ten tips for a great logo design. On this post, we explore the details of Best Visual Communication Colleges In The World, best colleges for visual communication design, masters in visual communication, visual communication degree salary, visual communication design university ranking and ba in visual communication.
At the end of the day, it’s up to you to figure out which school is right for you, or if there’s a school out there that fits the bill. You may have found a great option on our list, but what happens when you graduate? Will you still stand out in today’s industry? As demonstrated by Apple, sometimes buying a product off a well-known brand can actually lead to better customer loyalty and a more positive marketplace – so it’s worth considering whether one of these schools could be the missing link that gets you just that little bit more. Readv on to know more about Best Visual Communication Colleges In The World, best colleges for visual communication design, masters in visual communication, visual communication degree salary, visual communication design university ranking and ba in visual communication.
In the past fifty years we’ve seen numerous shifts in technology as well as new platforms expanding the palate of what’s possible in graphic design. And while it may feel like there’s a dizzying amount to keep up with, we are proud to have been able to bring you this article with some great career advice that you can apply to even the most complex of designs. Stay up-to-date with trends, make sure you stay comfortable with software and get most out of your training by assigning yourself an advisor. All of these creative avenues will help you kickstart your career and make it one to remember.
So, if you’re leaving school and want to take that next step towards building a career in this booming industry, make sure you get that competitive edge by studying in one of the world’s best graphic design schools.
Best Visual Communication Colleges In The World
We begin with Best Visual Communication Colleges In The World, then best colleges for visual communication design, masters in visual communication, visual communication degree salary, visual communication design university ranking and ba in visual communication.
10. Pratt Institute
Location: New York City, USA
Degree type: BFA
If there’s one thing that the Pratt Institute is known for, it’s their belief in ‘poetic pragmatism’ or the idea that art and practicality can and should be combined. Not only do they champion the importance of creativity, but they also believe that it’s an indispensable aspect of today’s modern career landscape.
For this very reason, most of Pratt’s undergraduate programmes are designed to be interdisciplinary. For example, when majoring in Communications Design, students can choose from three specific areas to focus on: advertising, illustration and graphic design.
9. School of the Art Institute of Chicago
Location: Chicago, USA
Degree type: BFA
Home to some of the world’s most famous artists, it’s no surprise the School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC) is still widely considered a top choice among design students. Having a stunning alumni list, including bestselling author David Sedaris, celebrated artist Georgia O’Keeffe and entrepreneurial genius Walt Disney, also doesn’t hurt.
SAIC’s design programme is consistently ranked as one of the best in the US, too. By putting special emphasis on developing students’ critical and analytical skills, the school is regarded as having one of the most effective curricula in producing employable graduates.
8. Glasgow School of Art
Location: Glasgow, Scotland
Degree type: BA
As one of Europe’s leading art schools, the Glasgow School of Art has rightfully earned a place on this list. The school offers a range of programmes in the visual creative disciplines, all of which endorse studio-based learning and research to encourage collaboration and creative thinking.
Their Communication Design programme offers three distinct specialisms (illustration, photography and graphic design), and students are encouraged to undertake industrial placements and external assignments throughout their degree in order to develop their professional skills.
7. Aalto University
Location: Espoo, Finland
Degree type: BA
Since its establishment in 2010, Aalto University was able to rise from the ranks due to its unusual but effective ways of teaching. They’re especially known for their design programme, which combines elements of philosophy, art and innovation. Not only do professors discuss the visual aspects of design, but they also talk about the cultural and political context in which designs are formed.
Aalto University is especially appealing to EU/EEA citizens who get to study there for free.
6. Politecnico di Milano
Location: Milan, Italy
Degree type: BSc
With seven campuses located in and around the city centre, Politecnico di Milano is undoubtedly one of most renowned colleges in Italy.
Their communication design programme is similar to a lot of graphic design programmes in the US. However, the courses at Politecnico di Milano take three years to finish instead of four. Also, since it’s a technical school, graduates are awarded a bachelor’s degree in science and not fine arts.
All courses for communication design at Politecnico di Milano are taught in Italian, so, if you really want to spend your college years here, better start learning that second language as soon as you can!
5. Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Location: Cambridge, USA
Degree type: BFA
While the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) is known for producing the brightest engineering minds, it’s also considered to have one of the best art programmes not only in the US but also the entire world. Combining their technical excellence with art, they’ve developed a design programme that’s perfect for those who are both scientifically and artistically gifted.
As one of the premium technological schools in the US, the acceptance rate at MIT is incredibly low at 6.3% (for Class of 2023 students), and admission also comes at a steep price. The good news is that if you’re naturally talented, you can always go by their merit-based scholarships which are completely need-blind; in other words, your financial standing should have no bearing on whether you’re admitted or not.
4. Rhode Island School of Design
Location: Providence, USA
Degree type: BFA
Year after year, the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) has consistently been part of this list (and many others) for good reason. Established in 1877, it’s one of the oldest and most prestigious design schools in the US that can truly boast of a long and proud history rooted in the arts.
Apart from its notable alumni, including actors James Franco and Seth McFarlane, RISD is famous for its fine arts programme. With approximately 165 students enrolled in the course, RISD’s graphic design programme is also one of their most popular and biggest undergraduate departments. Students who are fortunate enough to be accepted into this school can enjoy unlimited trips to their extensive art museum and year-long rotating exhibits.
With an admissions rate of only 24%, you must be prepared to bring your A-game as competition is fierce.
3. Parsons School of Design
Location: New York City, USA
Degree type: BFA
Project Runway might have introduced the Parsons School of Design to the rest of the world, but this respected institution has been teaching and guiding students long before television sets even existed.
With over 100 years of experience, the Parsons School of Design prides itself on being one of the first to apply practice-based collaborative learning. Known for their Communication Design programme, Parsons has produced some of the most iconic designers in the world, including advertising legend Paul Rand and Harper’s Bazaar art director Bea Feitler.
2. University of the Arts London
Location: London, UK
Degree type: BFA
Home to 18,000 students from over 130 counties, and with 6 different colleges to choose from, it’s no wonder why the University of the Arts London (UAL) is one of the most popular art schools in the world.
Like the Pratt Institute, the UAL is known for focusing on the functional aspects of art while taking pride in their strategic partnerships which help ensure the employability of their graduates. However, despite their emphasis on the practical applications of art, many of its alumni members have been nominated and even won the esteemed Turner Prize, where only the best and the brightest British artists are recognised.
1. Royal College of Art
Location: London, UK
Degree type: MA
Topping this year’s list of the best design schools in the world is the Royal College of Art (RCA), which exclusively offers postgraduate programmes, so it’s really meant for people who want to take their careers to the next level. RCA prides itself on having a strong visual communication programme, which includes graphic design as a focus.
The entire course takes two years to finish, where students will be involved in hands-on workshops and working with professional designers.
If you’re a more seasoned graphic designer who’s looking to build your network and gain more experience, this is a great choice for you.
Getting into these prestigious schools is tough, but don’t let this list intimidate you or get in the way of your dreams. After all, when all is said and done, your success in any career path, regardless where you study, will be entirely up to you.
Are you considering a career in graphic design? Which school do you think will fit your personality the most? Let us know in the comments section below!
masters in visual communication
Now we consider masters in visual communication, visual communication degree salary, visual communication design university ranking and ba in visual communication.
Master’s in Visual Communication and Graphic Communication Degree Programs
Visual and graphic communication uses visual language and arts to communicate ideas and messages. Through the visual organization of information, professionals in this field create powerful user experiences across industries – from healthcare to politics. Using design elements, such as lettering, color, symbols, and images, visual communication can be used to influence, entertain, inform, and even persuade audiences.
A cross-disciplinary field, visual communication brings together typography, motion design, branding, design strategy, and information design to create mass communication and media products in both digital and printed mediums. Examples include magazines, newspapers, books, catalogs, and websites. A master’s in visual or graphic communication and design can help prepare graduates for senior- or director-level careers in multimedia, printing (e.g. lithography, print marketing, color reproduction), creative management, art direction, and more.
Classification of Visual Communication and Graphic Communication Master’s Programs
It is generally recommended that applicants to master’s in visual communication programs possess a bachelor’s degree in graphic design, media arts, or industrial design. However, many programs accept students with educational backgrounds in related fields such as business and science.
Through master’s-level studies, students in visual communication programs develop advanced knowledge of the foundational concepts of visual language design, its history and theory, and technical design processes. A blend of specialized coursework and studio-based instruction helps students build the skills they need for careers in academia or professional practice as leaders in design and mass communication. Students can select from several different degree tracks within visual communication and graphic communication, including the Master of Arts (M.A.), the Master of Science (M.S.), and the Master of Fine Arts (M.F.A.).
| Featured Online Master’s Programs | ||
|---|---|---|
| Georgetown UniversityOnline Master of Professional Studies in Design Management & Communications | Program Website |
Sponsored
M.A. and M.S. programs in the field are typically industry-oriented, with curricula that introduce students to theoretical concepts of design and coursework in the visual arts. Students develop technical skills in traditional subjects such as commercial printing or print production management, as well as cutting-edge fields like new media and emerging design technology, all of which can be applied directly to professional roles in visual communication. These programs are offered by a variety of different schools and colleges, through departments such as design and the arts, professional studies, or communication studies. Examples of M.S. and M.A. programs can be found at the following institutions:
- Arizona State University: Master of Science in Visual Communication Design
- Clemson University: Master of Science in Graphic Communication
- Liberty University: Master of Arts in Visual Communication Design
The third option, the M.F.A., is a terminal degree program that focuses on design theory and research in specific visual and graphic communication areas, such as interactive design, 3D design, typography, graphic design, motion graphics, or emerging media. Through advanced classroom and studio-based courses and seminars, students are exposed to subjects like visual rhetoric, ecology of design, social awareness and design, and more. M.F.A. students develop their own approach to design methodologies and real-world application of their chosen specialty (e.g. user experience, interactive design). Program options vary, but are often found in schools of art and design or institutes of technology. Examples of M.F.A. programs include:
- Kutztown University of Pennsylvania: Master of Fine Arts in Communication Design
- Indiana University–Purdue University Indianapolis: Master of Fine Arts in Visual Communication Design
- Rochester Institute of Technology: Master of Fine Arts in Visual Communication Design
- Texas State University: Master of Fine Arts in Communication Design
Depending on the degree type and institution, students may have the option to focus their coursework around an academic concentration specific to their desired professional field. Common visual communication specializations include:
- Web and digital media
- Design reproduction technology
- Communication design
- Interaction and interactive design
- User experience
- Motion design
- 3D digital design
As discussed, programs may vary by name (e.g. visual communication, communication design) and degree type (e.g., M.A./M.S., M.F.A.) at different institutions. As such, students should be sure to carefully review core curricular requirements, academic concentration options, and elective classes in order to find a master’s program that meets not only their academic needs, but future professional goals as well.
Curriculum Details for Master’s in Visual Communication and Graphic Communication Programs
While the different master’s in visual communication degree tracks described above often have overlapping curricula, they are distinct academic programs. Modern design is interdisciplinary in nature, combining the study of digital, graphic, and interactive design, with related disciplines such as technology, data visualization, psychology, and marketing. Lecture-based classes and hands-on studio work introduce students to the foundational concepts and competencies of design, as well as their relationship to applied fields like user experience, sustainability, and product development.
M.A. and M.S. in Visual Communication and Graphic Communication Programs
M.A. and M.S. degree tracks in the field generally entail between 30 and 36 semester credit hours, and require completion of either a thesis or professional project to graduate. Depending on the institution and area of study (e.g. graphic communication), curriculum and coursework may vary. Some programs have a greater focus on business strategies and design leadership, covering subjects such as strategic design leadership, executive management, and design finance, while others concentrate more on the graphic communication process, with classes in design systems, print production, quality management, and design documentation.
In an M.S./M.A. program, coursework is divided between core design courses, academic specialization classes, electives, and either a thesis or professional project. In the first year, students are introduced to the fundamentals of graduate research, along with core concepts in visual communication, applied design theory, the history of design, and more. This three-to-six-class core curriculum prepares students for advanced specialized study in their academic concentration.
After gaining a foundational knowledge of design and business practices, students transition into concentration courses and electives in the second year of the program. These classes are specific to the student’s area of interest, such as design sustainability, packaging design, visual design systems, or design methodologies. Depending on their specialization, students may complete courses in contextual research, design visualization, prototyping and production, typography, visual perception, or other topics. At the conclusion of the second year, students should have a well-rounded knowledge of both visual and graphic communication design principles, practices, and processes, as well as how to implement them in their particular concentration.
Below is a list of some course topics often found in an M.A. or M.S. program in visual or graphic communication:
- Typography: In this course, students examine the forms of visual language used in both digital and analog media, studying the history of typography, typographic principles, and how the use and arrangement of words, letters, and symbols impact communication.
- Communication Design Methods and Practices: This course explores modern working methods in communication design, focusing on digital product design, its processes, and concepts related to ethics, copyright, and marketing.
- Visual Perception: A foundational study of visual perception and how it has changed throughout history, providing students with an advanced awareness of how symbols and archetypes are used and conceptualized in the creative process.
- Motion Design: An advanced review of motion-based media, in which students explore how design attributes such as depth, shape, and color are blended with real-time elements like pace and rhythm to replicate movement in 2D or 3D artistic mediums.
- Graphic Communications Management: This course looks at the theories and practices behind effective management in the graphic communications industry, emphasizing organizational theory, leadership development, and management strategies that can be applied in real-world situations.
M.F.A. in Visual Communication and Design
The Master of Fine Arts is the most academically demanding program in visual and graphic communications, traditionally requiring two to three years of full-time study to complete. Generally, the M.F.A. includes 60 semester credit hours of study that culminate with the student completing an original thesis. These degree programs typically focus heavily on the central concepts in visual communication design history and theory, design research methodologies, contemporary design processes, and art direction, as well as hands-on experiential learning in the student’s academic concentration.
Much like the other degree paths, curriculum in an M.F.A. program is usually divided between required courses and electives, studio-based electives, professional practice courses, and a thesis. In their first year of study, students learn about the foundations of visual and graphic communication studies at the graduate level, including an exploration of the history of design (e.g. modernism, postmodernism), design research methods, creative process models, and modes of design practice (e.g. digital imaging, web design, typeface design, packaging design). This initial curriculum introduces students to the comprehensive scope of design research and practice, preparing them to develop the topic for their master’s thesis.
After gaining familiarity with visual and graphic communication methodologies and processes, M.F.A. students begin specialization and elective coursework in their second year of study. As with the other degree tracks discussed above, these classes are specific to the student’s professional interest area (for example, information design, graphic design, branding and identity, editorial design, social impact and sustainability design, or environmental graphics).
Once they finish these required courses and electives, students begin work on their thesis. The thesis is an opportunity for the student to conduct a deep dive into graphic and visual communication’s influence and impact on a specific field, such as education, typography, healthcare, marketing, 3D design, or business. They might consider how the design of supermarket layouts influence consumer buying patterns, how user-centric design changes consumer’s attitudes towards restaurant takeout packaging, or how the digital manipulation of photos impacts feelings on body image and self-esteem, to name just a few possible examples
The list below includes sample courses students might take in an M.F.A. in visual or graphic communication degree program:
- Art Direction: An advanced examination of the conceptual principles behind art direction, including a review of branding, design, and copy strategies used in various mediums such as print, digital, or film.
- Corporate Marketing Materials: This course introduces students to the various elements essential in corporate marketing and advertisement design and their effects on consumers, with study of typography, layout construction, illustration, photo imagery, and more.
- Design Language: In this course, students look at how design can be used as a communication tool, exploring how a variety of design strategies (e.g. image, sound, typography) might be employed to convey meaning in various mediums, such as digital media or print.
- Design Management: A review of contemporary management methods used in the design industry, providing students with an in-depth perspective on the realities of serving as a manager or leader in a design agency, consulting firm, or corporation.
- Design Writing: This course focuses on effective writing skills used in modern design, pushing students to consider how they can develop a voice through personal design research and analysis.
Length of a Master’s Program in Visual or Graphic Communication
The time required to complete a master’s degree in visual or graphic communication varies depending on the type of program (e.g. M.A., M.F.A.) students pursue and its particular requirements. In general, most programs require two to three years of full-time study to complete. However, there are programs that can be completed in as little as one year of full-time study.
The tables below are examples of how an M.S. in visual communication and an M.F.A. in communication design program might be structured for a student entering with a bachelor’s degree in graphic design. Due to the variance in program options, curriculum, and academic concentrations, these tables should be used for illustrative purposes only.
Master of Science in Visual Communication (with Fall and Spring classes)
| Fall Term | Spring Term | |
|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | Introduction to Visual Design SystemsHistory of Art and DesignResearch Methods in Design | Introduction to Motion DesignPersuasion in Graphic DesignElements of Commercial DesignVisual Design Tools and Software |
| Year 2 | Sustainability and DesignDesign Leadership and ManagementBranding Principles and DesignTypography and User Experience | Professional Practices in Visual CommunicationThesis Research |
| Year 3 | Thesis Writing and Defense |
Master of Fine Arts in Graphic Communication Design (with an Emphasis in Corporate Design and year-round classes)
| Fall Term | Spring Term | Summer Term | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 | Introduction to Design SystemsResearch Methods in Visual Design IHistory and Theory of Visual Communication | Studies in Emerging MediaResearch Methods of Visual Design IIIntroduction to Package Design | Social Awareness DesignDesign and SocietyCorporate Graphics |
| Year 2 | Ecology of DesignAdvertising DesignRhetoric of Corporate Visual Design | Advanced Digital and Computational DesignArt DirectionCorporate Visual MarketingThesis Research | Thesis ResearchDesign Exhibition |
| Year 3 | Thesis Presentation and Defense |
Career Paths for Graduates with a Master’s in Visual Communication and Graphic Communication
Design innovation is critical in business today, whether it is in digital media, healthcare, public affairs, urban planning, education, or any other industry. A graduate education in visual and graphic communication helps prepare students for a wide range of career opportunities in a variety of professional fields, including graphic design, web development, publishing and printing, product development, project management, advertising and marketing, packaging, journalism, digital photography, and more. In addition, earning an M.F.A. can allow graduates to pursue careers in academia and higher education as a lecturer, researcher, or tenure-track professor in visual and graphic communication and design.
Below is a list of career paths both in and outside academia that graduates with a master’s degree in visual/graphic communication might pursue:
- Professor: Tenure-track professors contribute to visual and graphic communication scholarship by teaching classes (both undergraduate and graduate), creating and hosting art exhibitions, attending professional conferences, writing professional articles for journals, and more.
- Community College Professor: Community college professors are responsible for teaching courses, developing curricula, mentoring students, and contributing to the campus community.
- Illustrator: Working as either freelancers or full-time professionals, illustrators develop, design, and create sketches and illustrations to be used across a variety of mediums, from books and brochures, to websites and film.
- Art Director: Art directors handle the visual styling for businesses, magazines, products, media productions (e.g. television and film), websites, and more, monitoring brand styles, coordinating with company leadership on strategic design initiatives, and managing artists, graphic designers, and other staff.
- Design Strategist: Design strategists develop brand and design strategies for organizations and businesses, creating frameworks to guide product design and marketing efforts, such as portfolio and product naming.
- Design Researcher: Much like a market research analyst, design researchers use qualitative and quantitative research methods to identify audience attitudes, needs, and behaviors for use in product development, testing, and marketing.
- Design Engineer: Design engineers use a blend of technical knowledge and design skills to conceptualize, develop, and create project and product plans across industries, including software, construction, transportation, and more.
visual communication degree salary
Now we review visual communication degree salary, visual communication design university ranking and ba in visual communication.
Visual communication majors are commonly housed within a university’s school of journalism and communication or within an art department. Some visual communications programs focus solely on creation of images, while others look at how visual media affects the audience that views it. Visual communication programs include Bachelor of Arts or Science options as well as the Bachelor of Fine Arts. As a visual communication student, you can tailor your studies to topics such as visual arts, graphic design, photojournalism, marketing or commercial photography.
In a program leading to any of these degrees, you can expect to complete classes in typography and website design; it is likely that you’ll complete several terms of work in a campus design studio. Other courses may include communications history, image theory and photo editing. Courses in content delivery and ethical guidelines are likely to be included.
What Jobs Can I Pursue?
A commercial photographer may photograph models, merchandise and a variety of other items for inclusion in advertising, reports and other media, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). As a commercial photographer, you may work in studios creating portraits. Or you may choose to be self-employed, working in a home office to process photos after on-site photography has taken place.
A photojournalist or news photographer uses camera equipment, digital or 35mm, to capture images to be published, according to the BLS. Monster.com states that a photojournalist may also use electronic video equipment to record news images. Photojournalists may work for specific companies or for a variety of companies on a freelance basis.
A graphic designer is responsible for the creation of visual presentations through selection of graphic elements and selection of text, according to Monster.com. Many graphic designers are self-employed, others work in newspapers and produce other media to create advertisements, layouts and graphics to the specifications of their clients, according to the BLS. Graphic designers often collaborate with copywriters or their individual clients to determine the appropriate text for advertisements (www.bls.gov).
What Could My Potential Earnings Be?
The BLS reports that photographers earned an average of $24.18 per hour, or $50,290 per year, as of 2020. Industries with the highest pay for photographers (including photojournalists and commercial photographers) were the aerospace manufacturing industry, with an annual average salary of $91,830, advertising, public relations and related services, with an annual average salary of $79,060, and the motion picture and video industry, with an annual average salary of $78,470.
As of data from that same year, graphic artists or graphic designers earned an average of $58,370 annually according to the BLS. The highest-paying industries for graphic artists were the federal government, software publishers and aerospace manufacturing. They paid average annual salaries of $88,090, $81,610 and $80,000 respectively.
What Are Some Related Alternative Careers?
Desktop publishers, film and video editors and camera operators and reporters all have aspects of their work relating to visual communications majors. Desktop publishers focus on an overall look for the layout of printed materials such as books or magazines. Film and video editors and camera operators perform tasks that are very similar to the work of photographers; they use video cameras to film images and then use software to edit and organize those images. Reporters may work closely with photojournalists, and need an understanding of the right visual images that will support their story. Desktop publishers need an associate’s degree; film and video editors and camera operators and reporters need a bachelor’s degree.
visual communication design university ranking
5. Iowa State University
Ames, Iowa
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design
Regional Accreditation: Yes
Annual Tuition: $23,392
Graduation Rate: 44%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 19 to 1
Major Rankings: Niche.com Top School for Graphic Design 2019
Points: 17
Iowa State University features a bachelor of fine arts in graphic design that can be completed in 123.5 credits. No more than 65 credit hours may be transferred in to the program from a two-year school. A 2.0 minimum GPA is required for transfer students. Iowa State University includes coursework in typography and design in context in the BFA in graphic design degree program. Fourth-year students may wish to spend a semester in Rome, enjoying design classes in the heart of the Eternal City. Also available is the Graphic Design tour in Europe, a three-week study in several countries.
4. North Carolina State University
Raleigh, North Carolina
Bachelor of Graphic Design
Annual Tuition: $28,444
Graduation Rate: 75.2%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13 to 1
Major Rankings: Niche.com Top School for Graphic Design 2019
Points: 18
North Carolina State University’s bachelor of graphic design has the option of a semester or a summer at the NC State Prague Institute. The 120 credit degree covers topics such as image tinkering and publishing design systems. The North Carolina State University bachelor of graphic design is set apart by “the triads” a set of three co-requisite courses that are taken each term of the sophomore year and the first term of the junior year. The “Study Abroad” program for summer 2019 is titled, “Greece: Design and Social Innovation.” Design resources include Design Library, Materials Lab, Experience Design Lab, IT Lab, and Academic Advisor and Career Services.
3. Pratt Institute
Brooklyn, New York
BFA in Communications Design
Regional Accreditation: Yes
Annual Tuition: $51,870
Graduation Rate: 63.1%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 9 to 1
Major Rankings: Top School by GD USA 2018, Niche.com Top School for Graphic Design 2019, #6 on Business Insider’s Top 25 Design Schools in the World,
Points: 19
Pratt Institute is located in New York City–in Brooklyn, to be more precise–so it isn’t surprising to find these words on their website: “Because it’s more than what you’ll do–it’s where you’ll do it.” Pratt’s bachelor of fine arts in communications design offers the resources of what is arguably the greatest city in the world. Each week the department hosts a visiting artist and designer lecture series. Guest critics are also invited to open critique sessions. The school supports programs for international exchange and studying abroad. Pratt Institute’s BFA in communications design boasts three tracks: illustration, graphic design, and advertising art direction.
2. University of Cincinnati
Cincinnati, Ohio
BS in Communication Design
Regional Accreditation: Yes
Annual Tuition: $27,334
Graduation Rate: 62%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16 to 1
Major Rankings: Top School by GD USA 2018, #3 on Business Insider’s Top 25 Design Schools in the World
Points: 19
The University of Cincinnati has a bachelor of science in communication design degree that gives students educational and growth opportunities in graphic design, interaction design, and motion design. The program covers a range of skills including drawing, photography, video/animation, storytelling, and audio. The University of Cincinnati takes advantage of its metropolitan, culturally abundant environment with its Co-op Program to afford on-the-job experiences to their BS in communication design students. Organized travel semesters, foreign study semesters, and student exchange programs to England, Germany, and Denmark are also available.
1. Carnegie Mellon University
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Bachelor of Design
Regional Accreditation: Yes
Annual Tuition: $55,465
Graduation Rate: 88.3%
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13 to 1
Major Rankings: #5 on US News and World Report Top Graphic Design Programs, Top School by GD USA 2018, #4 on Business Insider’s Top 25 Design Schools in the World
Points: 21
Carnegie Mellon University’s bachelor of design tops our list of Visual Communication Bachelor’s for 2019. The program allows students to pick a pathway between the three focuses offered of products, communications, and environment, attuning the degree to the student’s personal goals. The Carnegie Mellon University Bachelor of Design includes coursework in persuasion, cultures, and how people work. This program operates in 7.5 week terms. Study abroad opportunities, and Confluence, a yearly design conference hosted by the school are experiences available for students in this program.
ba in visual communication
Essentially, Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Visual Communications course is about the transmission of information to key audiences through various sources such as websites, television, visual media, print publishing etc.
BA Visual Communication course is 3 years all about learning the transmission of information to important audiences via various sources like print publishing, television, and visual media, etc. It includes different design fundamentals, technical communication, digital media design, visual literacy, color management, etc.
Subjects that are taught in this course are Visual language, Photography, Visual Design, Communication theory, Photography, etc. To pursue this course, a student must complete 10+2 or any equivalent course securing a minimum of 50% of marks from a recognized university.
In India, many colleges offer a BA Visual Communication course. Among them, the top 5 colleges that offer a BA Visual Communication course are the following
| College Name | Admission Process | Average Fees | Average Placement offer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bishop Valley Memorial Cross Holy Cross, Kotyam | Merit based | INR 45,478 | INR-3,00,000 |
| Mahatma Gandhi University, Kottayam | Entrance based | INR 48,000 | INR 4,50,000 |
| GITAM, Hyderabad | Entrance based | INR 50,000 | INR 3,60,000 |
| Majlis Arts and Science College. Puramannur | Merit based | INR 37,500 | INR 4,00,000 |
| St. Thomas College, Thissur | Merit based | INR 2,020 | INR 3,00,000 |
BA Visual Communication average fees charged for this course range from INR 30,000-INR 3, 00,000 per annum. The dual degree course that is offered with this course is BA in Graphic Designing.
This course is very demanding and a lot of job opportunities are available for a student after completing this BA Visual Communication course. The various job profiles for this course are Desktop Publisher, Graphic Artist, Digital Photographer, Executive, Production Assistant, Instructional Designer, Media Marketing, Manager, etc.
The average salary for these job profiles is around INR 2,00,000-INR 7,00,000 per annum. Further students can pursue an MA in Visual Communication and after that, they can even do research and pursue M.Phil.
What is the BA Visual Communication Admission Process?
Many colleges conduct the online admission process for this BA Visual Communication course. The steps for the online admission processes for pursuing a BA Visual Communication course are the following:-
- For pursuing a BA Visual Communication course, a student must score well in the entrance examinations conducted by the particular Universities. Students also need to get good marks in the 10+2 examinations in any stream.
- The application forms for these entrance exams are released by the end of February month every year.
- Once a student successfully cleared the entrance exams, then they will be called for counseling and then the admission process.
The basic steps for the online admission process BA Visual Communication Course:-
For pursuing the BA Visual Communication course students have to appear in Entrance based online examinations in many colleges and universities. The process of applying for this online application form is mentioned below:-
- Students must register their names by providing email ids, mobile number, and password.
- They must fill all the necessary columns by providing personal and educational information.
- Students must appear on the entrance examination on the mentioned date.
- After declaring results, selected students will be called for a personal interview and after that, the admission process will start.
The basic steps for the merit-based or offline admission process in the BA Visual Communication course:-
In some colleges, merit-based or offline admission processes are conducted for a BA Visual Communication course. The steps for the merit-based admission process are the following:-
- After the release of the application form, visit your college and collect the admission form along with the college prospectus.
- Fill up all the necessary details in the admission form and make a demand draft of the required application fees.
- Submit the application form and demand draft before the closing date of the application form.
- 2-3 days before admission, you can check your name in the cut-off list and can get an idea about the certainty of your admission.
What is the BA Visual Communication Eligibility Criteria?
The eligibility criteria for pursuing a BA Visual Communication course are the following:-
- The student must complete 10+2 or Intermediate examination in any stream.
- Students must get a minimum of 50% of the aggregate of marks from any recognized university.
- Clearing cut-off marks in the entrance examination are the prime requirement in some colleges for getting admission to this course.
- The students also have to do well in the Personal Interview round.
How to prepare for a BA Visual Communication Entrance exam?
Students have to prepare well before appearing for the BA Visual Communication entrance examinations. Below are some of the tips that can help a student to score good marks in the entrance examination:-
- Collect the current updated syllabus and prepare hard every section and try to collect the previous year’s cut-offs. So that you can prepare according to the cut-offs.
- Stay away from attempting difficult questions if you don’t know the answer.
- Appear in online mock tests. This will help you to understand proper time management.
- Try to study the whole syllabus of the graduate Visual Communication course to answer most of the questions during the entrance exam.
- Prepare well for the Personal Interview round also as this round also carries marks.
How to get Admission to a Good BA Visual Communication College?
To get a chance to pursue your BA Visual Communication course from a good college a student must concentrate on the following points:-
- For getting admission to a top college a student must secure high marks on the entrance exam conducted by that particular university.
- You must also get good marks on your 10+2 or Intermediate examination. A minimum of 50% of marks is required to appear for the entrance exam.
- Start preparing for the entrance examination one year before the date of examination.
- In all the universities, along with the entrance exam, viva voice or personal interview is also conducted. So prepare well for this round of interviews also.
- Try to collect all the information of that college like the teaching faculty, curriculum where you wish to pursue your course.
- Placement is also very important. So, always choose that particular college where placement opportunities are very good.
What the BA Visual Communication course is all about?
To know more about the BA Visual Communication course from any recognized University mentioned the below points:-
- BA Visual Communication is a 3-year undergraduate course and to pursue this course, a student must qualify in 10+2 or intermediate examination from any recognized board.
- This course is all about learning the transmission of information to important audiences via various sources like print publishing, television, and visual media, etc.
- It is very beneficial to learn about different design fundamentals, technical communication, digital media design, dawning techniques, 3-D design, design history, visual literacy, color management, etc.
- BA Visual Communication gives knowledge to all the students about how to execute an effective and beautiful advertisement for various products and goods.
- The main aim of this course is to examine the use, role, and nature of visual messages and to identify the popular media forms among individuals. Organizations, small groups, and society.
BA Visual Communication Course Course Highlights
The main course highlights for this BA Visual Communication course are the following:-
| Course Level | Graduate |
| Full-Form | Bachelor of Arts (BA) Visual Communication |
| Duration | 3 years |
| Examination Type | Semesters |
| Eligibility | Must complete 10+2 or any equivalent course securing a minimum of 50% of marks from a recognized university. |
| Admission Process | Based on the Merit and Entrance test |
| Course Fee | INR 30,000 –INR 3,00,000 |
| Average Salary | INR 2,00,000-INR 7,00,000 |
| Top Recruiting Companies | Media Houses, Colleges and Universities, Photojournalism, Print and Production House, Film Production, Advertising Agencies, Business Designing, Advertisement Firms, Freelancing, etc. |
| Job Positions | Desktop Publisher, Graphic Artist, Digital Photographer, Executive, Production Assistant, Instructional Designer, Media Marketing, Manager, etc. |
Why pursue a BA Visual Communication Course?
The necessity of BA Visual Communication course is mentioned below-
- BA Visual Communication is perfect for skillful individuals and while pursuing this course, students get skills in visual communication.
- Students will learn about operating and contributing to the modern world of communication via visual media once they pursue this course.
- Students will learn about how to execute an effective and beautiful advertisement for various products and goods.
- Once completed BA Visual Communication, the door for pursuing advanced research in this Visual Communication course will be open for the students.
- Students with a creative and inventive mind can easily analyze how to make meaning out of symbols once they pursue this course.
- A graduate student in Visual Communication can work in top recruiting areas like Media Houses, Colleges and Universities, Photojournalism, Print and Production House, Film Production, Advertising Agencies, Business Designing, Advertisement Firms, Freelancing, etc.
- The various job roles that are offered to a graduate in Visual Communication students are Desktop Publisher, Graphic Artist, Digital Photographer, Executive, Production Assistant, Instructional Designer, Media Marketing, Manager, etc.
- The average starting salary of these job profiles ranges from INR 2,00,000 to INR 7,00,000 per annum.
BA Visual Communication vs. BFA Photography: Which is Better?
Below given is a course comparison between BA Visual Communication and BFA Photography.
| Parameters | BA Visual Communication | BFA Photography |
|---|---|---|
| Full Form | Bachelor of Arts in Visual Communication | Bachelor of Fine Arts in Photography |
| Overview | By pursuing this program, students learn about various design fundamentals, 3-D design, web design, color management etc. | It is a practically oriented course where students learn various skills related to photography and the specializations |
| Eligibility | Intermediate Passed with any stream | Intermediate Passed with any stream |
| Average Annual Fee | INR 20,000 – INR 1,00,000 | INR 30,000 – INR 90,000 |
| Average Package Offered | INR 3-5 LPA | INR 2-6 LPA |
The way we see it, there is something to be said for being able to draw on previous experience and expertise. Perhaps you’ve already had a go at being a designer, or perhaps you’ve just had a chance to dabble with the new technology that the world has thrown at us in the last decade or so. Either way, there is no denying that a good school will ensure that your learning is matched by real-world experience and practical training. And this isn’t just for coming out of school; it’s about making sure you have an idea of what makes a great design before you make your first ever poster or flyer.
At the end of the day, it’s up to you to figure out which school is right for you, or if there’s a school out there that fits the bill. You may have found a great option on our list, but what happens when you graduate? Will you still stand out in today’s industry? As demonstrated by Apple, sometimes buying a product off a well-known brand can actually lead to better customer loyalty and a more positive marketplace – so it’s worth considering whether one of these schools could be the missing link that gets you just that little bit more.
collage