Penn College Graphic Design

About

Majors

The Graphic Design and Art Department at Penn College offer 2 different degree programs and a variety of related minors.

Penn College graphic design student presenting logo ideas for a rebrand of Penn College Brewing and Fermentation Science degree

B.S. IN GRAPHIC DESIGN

Theory and application through hands-on learning provide students with the background to develop a viable portfolio and the knowledge to secure and maintain a creative position in graphic design. Students develop the necessary sensibilities for creative design through a series of required courses and electives in the visual arts, including courses ranging from painting to computer graphics and web design. Students become involved in a process that nurtures creativity and stimulates conceptual performance. The freshman, foundation year focuses on developing students’ visual thinking and hand skills. In subsequent years, students concentrate on applied art courses directed toward design and production in diverse media. For more information on the B.S. In Graphic Design (BGD) program, including course requirements click here.

Penn College student working in studio on design assignment.

A.A.A. IN ADVERTISING ART

This major prepares students for employment in advertising art and related fields. Students develop skills in drawing, designing, illustrating, color, typesetting, layout, computer graphics, and proper use of tools, equipment, and materials. Related courses in photography and graphic communications, as well as courses in English, mathematics, and science, increase the students’ career opportunities. For more information on the A.A.A. In Advertising Art (AR) program, including course requirements click here.

FACILITIES

Penn College students working in a computer lab

Penn College has state-of-the-art facilities withan abundance of current computer technology for training in design and production. Along with computer skills, it is also important to continue to educate students in hand-based disciplines such as drawing, painting, photography, and ceramics, to name a few. To accomplish that, our students have access to three fully functioning Mac labs with current programs and a variet y of other facilities including:

  • Fully-equipped Professional Photography Studio

  • Two 24-hr. Mac labs with Wacom tablets and high-end printers

  • Ceramics Studio

  • Wood Sculpture Studio

  • Drawing/Painting Studio

  • Professional Print Center

  • Darkroom facilities for wet photography

  • Public Art Gallery with regular Artist Exhibitions

FACULTY

Penn College faculty helping ceramics student

As a student at Penn College, you’ll be an integral participant in small classes (no lecture halls to be found!) and will benefit from the individualized attention of the artists and designers that make up our dedicated faculty. Your full-time professors, all of whom hold an MFA in their discipline, will challenge and support you utilizing their academic expertise and industry experience. Providing a rigorous academic environment, the faculty at Penn College will expect you to work hard and will applaud your success.

ACTIVITIES

Penn College graphic design student accepting 3 American Advertising Federation awards for their graphic design work

Penn College has a wealth of student organizations to keep the students active and engaged in their collegiate experience. From the Student Government Association to Penn College CRU, there’s something here for everyone. Graphic Design majors at Penn College have the opportunity to join the local chapter of AIGA (the American Institute of Graphic Arts), the national professional association for design. Student members have access to national competitions, country-wide job postings, and student discounts on special events and design software.