M.F.A. in Illustration
The University of Hartford's Master of Fine Arts (M.F.A.) in Illustration program i...
B.F.A. in Visual Communication Design
West Hartford, Connecticut
INTAKE: Jan & Aug
Program Overview
The Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.) in Visual Communication Design at the University of Hartford is a dynamic program designed to prepare students for successful careers in various design fields. This program emphasizes a blend of creative thinking and technical skills, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of visual communication principles. The curriculum integrates design theory with practical experience, equipping students with the tools needed to create compelling visual content for diverse media and platforms.
NASAD Accredited: The B.F.A. in Visual Communication Design is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD). This accreditation ensures that the program meets rigorous standards of quality and excellence in art and design education. NASAD accreditation is a testament to the program's commitment to providing a high-caliber education that prepares students for professional success in the field of visual communication design.
Curriculum: The curriculum for the B.F.A. in Visual Communication Design includes a wide range of courses that cover fundamental and advanced topics in design. Students engage in coursework on graphic design, typography, digital media, user experience (UX) design, and brand identity. The program emphasizes hands-on learning through studio projects, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world design challenges. Additionally, students explore design history, aesthetics, and contemporary trends, fostering a well-rounded understanding of the field.
Research Focus: Research within the B.F.A. in Visual Communication Design program focuses on emerging trends and innovations in visual communication. Faculty members and students explore topics such as interactive design, multimedia art, and the impact of technology on visual storytelling. This research often involves practical experimentation and creative exploration, contributing to advancements in design practices and the development of new visual communication strategies.
Industry Engagement: The program emphasizes strong industry engagement through internships, collaborative projects, and networking opportunities. Students have the chance to work with local design firms, advertising agencies, and media companies, gaining practical experience and building professional connections. The program also hosts guest lectures, workshops, and design exhibitions, allowing students to interact with industry professionals and stay informed about current trends and practices in visual communication design.
Global Perspective: The B.F.A. in Visual Communication Design incorporates a global perspective by addressing international design trends and practices. Students examine global design influences, cross-cultural visual communication, and the impact of globalization on design practices. The program offers study abroad opportunities and projects that encourage students to explore design from a global standpoint, preparing them to work in diverse and multicultural environments.
Location
West Hartford, Connecticut
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 45682
Undergraduate Entry Requirements
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in their previous academic qualifications.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.,0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 80 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 58 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 110.
- SAT: Overall score of 480 or higher.
The University of Hartford in the USA offers various scholarships and financial aid options to international students to help ease the cost of education. These scholarships are awarded based on factors such as academic merit, talents, and financial need.
International Student Scholarships: The University of Hartford offers a range of merit-based scholarships specifically for international undergraduate students. These scholarships are typically awarded based on academic achievement and are renewable for up to four years. The amount of the scholarship varies depending on the student's academic qualifications.
Talent-Based Scholarships: International students with exceptional talents in areas such as the arts, music, or athletics may be eligible for talent-based scholarships. These scholarships recognize and reward students for their outstanding abilities.
Honor Scholarships: The university offers competitive honor scholarships to academically high-achieving undergraduate students. These scholarships can significantly reduce the cost of tuition.
Diversity Scholarships: Some scholarships are awarded to students who contribute to the diversity of the university's student body. These scholarships are aimed at students from underrepresented backgrounds and often require an application and essay.
Alumni Legacy Scholarships: Children of University of Hartford alumni may be eligible for legacy scholarships. These scholarships are designed to support the next generation of students in their educational journey.
Departmental Scholarships: Various academic departments at the university offer scholarships to students majoring in specific fields. These scholarships are based on academic performance within a particular discipline.
Need-Based Financial Aid: In addition to scholarships, international students can apply for need-based financial aid. This may include grants and loans, and eligibility is determined by the student's financial circumstances.
External Scholarships: The University of Hartford assists international students in finding external scholarships, which are scholarships offered by organizations, foundations, or governments outside of the university.
Global Ambassador Scholarships: These scholarships are designed for international students who have been designated as Global Ambassadors. Global Ambassadors play a crucial role in helping new international students transition to life at the university.
It's important to note that scholarship availability, criteria, and application deadlines can change from year to year.
Graduates of the Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.) in Visual Communication Design from the University of Hartford have a wide range of career opportunities available to them. The program equips students with a diverse skill set that opens doors to various roles within the design and creative industries.
Graphic Designer: Many graduates pursue careers as graphic designers, creating visual content for print and digital media. This role involves designing advertisements, brochures, websites, and other materials that effectively communicate messages and engage audiences.
User Experience (UX) Designer: With a strong foundation in design principles and user-centered design, graduates can work as UX designers. This role focuses on enhancing user satisfaction by improving the usability, accessibility, and pleasure of interacting with digital products and services.
Brand Identity Designer: Graduates can specialize in brand identity design, helping companies and organizations establish and maintain their visual identity. This includes designing logos, brand guidelines, and marketing materials that reflect the brand’s values and goals.
Art Director: As art directors, graduates oversee visual aspects of creative projects, including advertising campaigns, magazines, and websites. They work closely with designers, photographers, and other creative professionals to ensure cohesive and visually compelling outcomes.
Interactive Media Designer: This role involves creating interactive elements for digital platforms, such as websites, apps, and multimedia installations. Graduates use their skills to design engaging user interfaces and interactive experiences that enhance user engagement.
Freelance Designer: Many graduates choose to work as freelance designers, offering their services to a variety of clients on a project-by-project basis. This option allows for flexibility and the opportunity to work on diverse projects across different industries.
Creative Director: With experience, graduates can advance to roles such as creative director, where they oversee the overall visual direction and creative strategy for organizations or agencies. This position involves leading teams and managing large-scale design projects.
Design Educator: Some graduates opt for careers in education, teaching design principles and techniques at various educational institutions. This role involves mentoring future designers and contributing to the academic field.
