Program Requirements

About the major

The Art Department at Mercer University offers a comprehensive program in Graphic Design within a vibrant liberal arts curriculum. Coursework encourages the investigation of contemporary directions in art, imaging, and visual communication in a wide range of print and interactive media. Theory, methodology, and industry-standard technology are studied and applied to prepare students for success in this continually evolving field. Coursework in studio art, aesthetics, and art history provide a strong foundation in art, while advanced studio courses offer valuable instruction in specialized areas of graphic design. Through the combined experience of professional practice, internship, and exhibition, students develop a cohesive portfolio appropriate for the pursuit of graduate studies or professional practice.

A Graphic Design major requires at least 45 semester credit hours. Students in the Graphic Design program also must do a major project, approved by Art Department faculty, consisting of a graduation exhibition during their senior year.

About the minor

A minor in Graphic Design requires a minimum of 18 semester credit hours. This minor will teach you the theory and industry-standard design applications that can be applied to multiple disciplines. A Graphic Design minor complements a variety of majors. Popular combinations include: Marketing, Business Administration, Communications, Journalism, Art, and Technical Communications.

Departmental honors

A Graphic Design major may earn departmental honors by:

  • Earning an overall GPA of 3.50
  • Earning a 3.50 GPA in all art courses
  • Completing, with distinction, a major project to be publicly displayed in a graduation exhibition during the senior year