Minimum number of credits required to graduate: 124
Minimum Cumulative GPA required to graduate: 2.0
Minimum number of credits to complete the major: 64
Graphic Design Major
As a graphic design major, you will develop your capacity for artistic and creative expression in both design and the studio arts.
This dynamic program, which blends art and design history, provides a rich and strong foundation that encompasses design thinking, theory, process, and practice, along with a background in the liberal arts.
Merrimack’s multifaceted graphic design curriculum combines research, critical questioning, problem analysis and the methodologies of the design industry. As a student in this program, you’ll sharpen your conceptual and critical-thinking abilities and develop a practical, in-depth understanding of current industry-standard technical skills. And, as part of the Mobile Merrimack Initiative, you will incorporate mobile technology into your learning.
The Graphic Design program
You’ll start with foundational courses. They will challenge you to look, think, question, make, critique, and to critically evaluate art and design. Graphic Design History, with an additional art history course of your choosing, will help you understand your major within the context of world culture. Next, you’ll choose one of two foci (Brand Design or Interaction Design) thereby selecting advanced coursework most appropriate to your learning, creative, professional and career goals. Lastly, in your senior level coursework you’ll dive into design research, enabling you to produce a professionally designed senior capstone project. Through courses of increasing complexity, as well as internships and opportunities for real-world design practice, you’ll learn to:
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Understand and perform various types of industry-related research
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Write for a broad range of applications
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Develop the capacity to collaborate successfully, both online and in person
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Motivate yourself and manage creative projects
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Develop ideas that stand the test of critical analysis
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Deliver effective oral presentations to students, professors and outside clients
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Brand and market yourself by creating a professional identity and portfolio
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Become proficient in relevant industry software, hardware and social media
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Be accountable, responsible and ethical in your work
Technology Requirements for the Graphic Design Program
Graphic Design majors are required to have an Adobe Creative Cloud Subscription and a professional level laptop at the start of their junior year. Upon becoming a Merrimack student, you’ll receive an Apple iPad and Pencil as part of the Mobile Merrimack Initiative, which will be an added benefit to your creative explorations. Inquiries about technical requirements are always welcome. Please contact Dan Vlahos, Director of the Graphic Design program, by email: vlahosd@merrimack.edu
Transfer Students to the Graphic Design Program
If you’re transferring into the program, the transfer of studio courses and level of placement in the Graphic Design program will be determined by the Graphic Design faculty. Upon application to Merrimack College, you’re required to submit a portfolio to the Department of Visual and Performing Arts for review. During the portfolio review, the Graphic Design faculty will assess your studio skills, as well as the courses to be transferred toward the degree requirements. Faculty will compare your level of accomplishment with the Graphic Design Program’s expectations to determine where you’re qualified for placement into the program.
Portfolios can be submitted in-person or digitally. To submit a portfolio, or ask questions about the process, please contact Dan Vlahos, Director of the Graphic Design program, by email: vlahosd@merrimack.edu
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