Bachelors of Design in Graphic Design

Entry requirements for Undergraduate Programs:

• Academic Qualifications: International students applying for undergraduate programs at UIC are expected to have completed their secondary education or its equivalent. The minimum academic requirement is a score of 60% or above in the qualifying examination.
   
• English Language Proficiency: 
  • IELTS: A minimum overall band score of 6.5 is required, with no individual score below 6.0.
  • TOEFL: A minimum score of 80 is required on the internet-based test (iBT).
  • PTE: A minimum overall score of 54 is required. 

Scholarships for International Students at the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC):

1. UIC Global Scholarship: The UIC Global Scholarship is available for international undergraduate and graduate students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement and contribute to the diversity of the university. The scholarship provides partial tuition waivers to recipients.

2. Chancellor's Award Program: The Chancellor's Award Program is a merit-based scholarship offered to incoming undergraduate students at UIC. International students with outstanding academic records and achievements are eligible to apply for this competitive scholarship.

3. UIC Distinguished International Merit Scholarships: The UIC Distinguished International Merit Scholarships are awarded to exceptional international undergraduate students who have demonstrated academic excellence and leadership potential. These scholarships cover a portion of the tuition fees.

4. UIC International Tuition Waiver: International graduate students at UIC may be eligible for the International Tuition Waiver, which provides a reduction in tuition fees. The waiver is awarded based on academic merit and availability of funds.

5. College-Specific Scholarships: UIC's colleges and departments offer a variety of scholarships for international students within specific academic disciplines. These scholarships are often based on academic achievement, leadership qualities, and specific program requirements. Students should check with their respective college or department for available scholarship opportunities.

6. External Scholarships: UIC encourages international students to explore external scholarship opportunities from governmental and non-governmental organizations, both in their home countries and in the United States. These scholarships may be specific to fields of study, nationalities, or other criteria. The Office of Special Scholarship Programs at UIC can provide guidance and resources for finding external scholarships.

It is important to note that scholarship availability, criteria, and application processes may vary each year. 

Graduates of the Bachelor of Design in Graphic Design program at the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) are well-equipped for diverse and rewarding career opportunities in the ever-expanding field of visual communication. The program's comprehensive curriculum, which blends traditional design principles with cutting-edge digital skills, prepares students for dynamic roles in various industries. The Bachelor of Design in Graphic Design program at UIC prepares graduates for a wide array of creative and strategic roles in the design industry. The program's emphasis on both traditional and digital design skills, coupled with a strong foundation in design principles, positions graduates for success in an evolving and competitive job market. Whether working as graphic designers, web designers, art directors, or in other specialized roles, graduates emerge ready to make valuable contributions to the visual communication landscape.

1. Graphic Designer: Graduates can pursue careers as graphic designers, creating visual concepts and solutions for a wide range of projects, including branding, advertising, and print or digital media. They work with clients or creative teams to communicate messages effectively through visual elements.

2. Web Designer: With a focus on digital design skills, graduates are well-suited for roles as web designers. They create visually appealing and user-friendly websites, ensuring a seamless and engaging online experience for visitors. Proficiency in user interface (UI) and user experience (UX) design is essential in this role.

3. Art Director: Graduates may aspire to become art directors, overseeing the visual aspects of projects, campaigns, or entire design teams. Art directors play a key role in shaping the visual identity of brands and ensuring that creative projects align with strategic goals.

4. Brand Strategist: Building on their understanding of design principles and aesthetics, graduates can pursue roles as brand strategists. They work closely with clients to develop brand identities, ensuring consistency in messaging, visual elements, and overall brand experience.

5. Digital Illustrator: Graduates with strong illustration skills may find opportunities as digital illustrators. They create visually compelling and original illustrations for various digital platforms, including websites, social media, and mobile applications.

6. User Experience (UX) Designer: Given the program's emphasis on user-centered design, graduates are well-suited for roles as UX designers. They focus on creating designs that enhance user satisfaction by improving the usability, accessibility, and overall user experience of products and services.

7. Advertising Designer: Graduates can enter the field of advertising design, creating visual elements for advertising campaigns across different media channels. They contribute to the development of compelling visuals that effectively convey the messages and values of products or services.

8. Packaging Designer: With a specialization in visual communication, graduates may pursue careers as packaging designers. They create visually appealing and functional packaging for products, considering factors such as brand identity, market appeal, and product protection.

9. Motion Graphics Designer: Those with an interest in animation and dynamic visuals can explore careers as motion graphics designers. They create animated graphics for television, film, and online media, enhancing storytelling through visually engaging motion elements.

10. Freelance Designer: Graduates may choose to work as freelance designers, offering their services independently to clients or collaborating with agencies on a project basis. Freelancers have the flexibility to work on diverse projects and build a portfolio showcasing their unique design style.

11. Creative Director: With experience and leadership skills, graduates may advance to roles as creative directors. In this capacity, they provide strategic direction to creative teams, ensuring the alignment of design projects with organizational goals and client objectives.

12. Social Media Graphic Designer: Graduates can specialize in creating visual content for social media platforms. They design graphics, infographics, and other visual elements to enhance social media presence and engagement for brands or organizations.

13. Print Production Manager: Graduates may pursue roles as print production managers, overseeing the printing process for various materials, such as brochures, magazines, and promotional materials. They collaborate with printers and vendors to ensure the quality and timely delivery of printed materials.

14. Interactive Designer: With a focus on interactive and multimedia design, graduates can explore roles as interactive designers. They create engaging digital experiences, interactive websites, and multimedia presentations that captivate audiences and convey information effectively.

15. Educator or Workshop Facilitator: Graduates interested in sharing their knowledge and skills may consider careers in education. They can become educators or workshop facilitators, guiding the next generation of designers and contributing to design education initiatives.