Mission Statement
The Graphic Design program seeks to provide a solid education to prepare students for opportunities in professional careers and/or graduate school. The department provides a baccalaureate-level sequence of study that leads to a Bachelor of Science in Graphic Design. Mirroring the mission of the university, the Graphic Design program also supports ECSU’s liberal arts program by providing a challenging and supportive environment for learning.
Goals
- The primary goal of the Graphic Design program is to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to pursue career opportunities or graduate study in graphic design.
- In support of the University’s liberal arts program, the department seeks to provide engaging courses in art for students majoring in other fields of study.
- In concert with the mission of the university to prepare our graduates for leadership roles in the community that will facilitate economic growth, we further seek to engage the community around us through active partnering in civic and entrepreneurial projects over the span of the four-year experience at ECSU.
- As an extension of the outreach of ECSU, the program also endeavors to provide enriching experiences in the visual arts for Elizabeth City State University students, faculty, and citizens of the Albemarle region at large.
Objectives
The objectives are as follows:
- to provide graphic design students with a comprehensive education that establishes a solid foundation in graphic design, art history, and art theory, as well as opportunities to exhibit their work and otherwise engage the community at large.
- to serve students who seek an overview of graphic design and art history as part of their general education.
- to support the University’s community outreach initiatives by hosting a variety of art exhibitions, guest lecturers, and workshops.
- to provide students with an atmosphere that supports the creative process by providing adequate facilities and equipment, theoretical and practical experience, individualized instruction, and thorough advisement.
Admission Requirements
All students seeking to major in graphic design must first gain admission to Elizabeth City State University by applying through the Office of Admissions.
Academic Expectations
Students are required to compile a portfolio and participate in the annual portfolio review to determine if adequate progress is being made. All students are expected to proceed through the required sequence of courses and are required to achieve a grade of “C” or better in courses in all ART and ARTH courses.
Annual Portfolio Review
Students seeking a B.S. in Graphic Design are required to submit a portfolio for review during the Spring semester of their freshman, sophomore and junior year in the program.
Senior Show/Portfolio
Students seeking a B.S. in Graphic Design are required to mount a senior show and assemble a portfolio showcasing work that represents the student’s unique style and demonstrates overall artistic skills and abilities.
Student Internships
The Graphic Design program has an active internship program that provides students with opportunities to work with local businesses and arts organizations.
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