Graphic Design (BA)

Why study Graphic Design?

Design is an important part of all businesses and organizations. Graphic designers combine art and technology to communicate ideas through images. They turn complex information into easy-to-understand visual communications that inspire and inform. If you are creative with an eye for detail, graphic design could be the career for you.

Why study Graphic Design at AU?

At Aurora University, if you can imagine it, you can create.  As an AU Graphic Design student, you will have the opportunity to bring your creative ideas to life. You will develop an ability to communicate visually and build your proficiency with digital design tools. You will take courses that focus on color, typography, and layout, as well as on drawing and art.

Our holistic program covers the essentials of modern design while building a strong foundation in the basics of drawing and art history. You will learn how to use the latest technology, including Adobe Creative Cloud, to design standout visuals. Expert faculty, who understand the latest in design thinking, will mentor you along the way.

Your experience will involve challenging design activities that emphasize critical thinking and creative problem solving. Through studio and computer work, you’ll explore both macOS and Windows platforms to help ensure a smooth transition from the classroom to the workplace. As a result, you will create a portfolio of work that will help you secure a job upon graduation or continue on to graduate school.

You can expand your career opportunities with a double major in Communication or Marketing. Even with a second major, you’ll still be able to graduate in four years.

The Graphic Design major also meets the requirements for pursuing a graduate degree through AU’s accelerated MBA Plus One Program.

Creativity is intelligence having fun. Albert Einstein
Curiosity about life in all of its aspects, I think, is still the secret of great creative people. Leo Burnett
Curriculum Highlights
  • Digital layout
  • Drawing
  • Interactive media
  • Typography
  • Visual communication
Campus Opportunities
  • American Marketing Association Collegiate Chapter
  • Elysian Literary Magazine
$57,990

2022 annual median salary for graphic designers

3%

2022-2032 projected job growth rate

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Experiential learning

Experiential learning

The AU Graphic Design program emphasizes hands-on and digital work to develop your expertise with software and to build your portfolio. Students gain experience by completing a required internship.

Career possibilities

  • Art director
  • Digital designer
  • Graphic designer
  • Illustrator
  • Multimedia designer
  • Photographer
  • Production designer
  • Web designer

Where our graduates work and students intern

  • Boombah, Inc.
  • Kaneland Arts Initiative
  • LaSalle Network
  • Massage Envy
  • North Central College
  • O-Cedar
  • Sir Speedy Printing
  • TCS Education System
  • VNA Health Care