graphic design students in the classroom

Graphic DesignGraphic Design

  • BA
  • BFA

About the Graphic Design Major

Columbia College Chicago’s Graphic Design degree programs provide the tools and experience needed to launch a career in visual communication. You’ll develop advanced skills in typography, layout, information design, and packaging design through hands-on courses. We’ll cover the software and technology necessary to create dynamic visual communications, while also offering experience in research and client management.

You’ll focus on graphic design within a wider program of foundational studies in art and design. You’ll also gain a strong business foundation, which will prepare you to join a design firm, an agency, an in-house corporate design team, or launch your own freelance business.

Examples of Graphic Design Careers

  • Art director
  • Brand designer
  • Creative strategist
  • Freelance graphic designer
  • Motion graphics designer
  • Packaging designer
  • UX/UI designer
  • Visual communications specialist
  • Web designer

The Student Experience

At Columbia College Chicago, the Graphic Design program offers a blend of hands-on learning, advanced coursework, and industry experience to ensure you’re ready for a successful career.

  • Experience hands-on learningFrom day one, you'll engage in practical courses covering design software like Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign. You’ll learn key fabrication techniques, such as papermaking and laser cutting, and apply graphic design principles through real-world projects.
  • Take challenging advanced courseworkAs you progress, you'll take courses in typography, color theory, branding, and more. The Portfolio course ensures that you develop, document, and refine a body of work to showcase to potential employers.
  • Learn from industry-experienced facultyColumbia’s graphic design faculty are accomplished designers and artists. They bring years of professional expertise into the classroom and help students stay connected to current trends in the design world.
  • Work on collaborative projectsIn practicum courses, you'll work with real clients to create dynamic, targeted visual communications projects.
  • Wrap it up with a portfolio course A portfolio course will help you develop and curate a body of work throughout the program, refining it until graduation.

graphic design student working in the classroom

Career Readiness

Columbia’s Career Center and faculty provide students with valuable internship opportunities at top organizations, giving you real-world experience and boosting your resume. Our extensive alumni network, spanning industries like arts, entertainment, and sports, connects you with professionals and mentors to support your career growth.

  • Internships that jumpstart your career

    Columbia’s Career Center and faculty connections provide access to internships with leading organizations, offering practical experience and building your resume. Our students gain graphic design experience at companies such as:

    • Leo Burnett
    • Cards Against Humanity
    • Pivot Design
    • 50000feet Creative Agency
    • Shure

  • Networking opportunities with alumni

    Our alumni network spans top companies and industries, including arts, entertainment, and sports. Our network helps connect you with professionals and mentors in your field.

Alumni Spotlight

Eavan Wallner ’14 - Design Lead, Google Events & Experiences

Eavan Wallner ’14

Design Lead, Google Events and Experiences 

98%

of 2023 grads are employed, enrolled in continued education, or pursuing their creative practice.

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