Visual Communication and Design

Visual Communication and Design

Develop Deep Graphics Expertise

Do you want a career that allows you to embrace creativity? Do you enjoy using technology to make captivating designs? Are you ready to take your communication skills to a visual level? If you answered yes to any of the above, Kirkwood's Visual Communication and Design is the program for you!

Graphic designers are visual storytellers who turn ideas into concepts using computer software or hand illustration. Their skills let companies connect with audiences by promoting their products and services, conveying a visual message or developing brand identity.

Following an introduction to the graphics industry, our Visual Communication and Design program develops students’ practical knowledge and provides hands-on experience with current standards in graphic communication. Working on Apple computers using industry-standard software from Adobe, you'll learn the technical and conceptual skills involved in typography, image generation, layout, color design and composition, and illustration principles to apply final graphics used in 2D, print, digital, and motion graphics.

 

Apply Now Program Details 

Paying for your degree may be easier than you think with our financial aid and scholarships. Kirkwood offers more than $3 million in scholarships each year.

Students in this program, full or part time, may be eligible to have half of their tuition paid for by the Kibbie Grant for up to two years!

Graduates of theVisual Communication and Design program will be able to:

  • Apply problem-solving solutions through the use of  2D and interactive design.
  • Conceptualize visual media projects using imagination and insight.
  • Produce original work that highlights illustrative design, layout and production capabilities.
  • Demonstrate the ability to identify and utilize the appropriate media type for the development of visual assets.
  • Demonstrate the ability to interpret and act upon written and oral communications both internal (art director/production manager) and external (client).
  • Analyze and evaluate various design styles for proper use for a given design strategy.
  • Employ appropriate time management skills pertinent to design budget.
  • Demonstrate the ability to identify client needs and apply the design and production solutions to those needs.

A program conference is recommended prior to starting the program. You’ll learn more about the program and have an opportunity to have questions answered by program faculty. Go here to register for a program conference. Please note: Before attending a program conference, you’ll need to have submitted an application.

Program Costs

Visual Communication and Design  

School Year: 2024–25

Program Entry Semester: Fall

Fall Spring Summer Fall Spring Total
Credit Hours per Semester 15 17 0 16 15 63
In-State Tuition $3,255 $3,689 $0 $3,472 $3,255 $13,671
Technology Fee per Semester $50 $50 $0 $50 $50 $200
Clinical Expenses (mileage, lodging, screenings, etc.) $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Conferences/Seminars $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Course Resources (textbooks, software, etc.) $825 $1,090 $0 $1,095 $730 $3,740
Course/Section Fees $15 $30 $0 $45 $50 $140
Laptop (required devices) $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Testing Fees $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Third Party Credentials $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Tool Sets $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Uniforms $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Other $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0
Total Estimated Cost $4,145 $4,859 $0 $4,662 $4,085 $17,751

 

Costs provided are estimated and based on the following current tuition rates: $217 (In-State), $290 (Out-of-State), $400 (International).

Fees and costs are subject to change. To view all costs associated with attending college visit our Tuition and Costs page.


Program Requirements

To get into the Visual Communication and Design program, you must complete the following, in addition to Kirkwood’s steps to become a student:

  • Attend a program conference

Explore More

Graduates with a Visual Communication and Design degree can obtain jobs in a variety of career fields. Future career opportunities include the following:

  • Advertising Designer
  • Design and Marketing Departments
  • In-house Graphic Designer
  • Photo Editor
  • Publication Designer
  • Point of Purchase / Retail Display Design
  • Graphical Home Goods Design
  • Apparel Graphic Designer
  • Identity / Logo Designer
  • Packaging Designer
  • Environmental Design / Outdoor Advertising
  • Multimedia Designer 
  • UX / UI / Web Designer

Students in Kirkwood's Visual Communication and Design program are encouraged to join the Kirkwood chapter of Business Professionals of America (BPA). With 45,000 members in more than 1,800 chapters across 25 states and Puerto Rico, as well as an international presence in China, Haiti and Peru, BPA has the ability to enhance student participation in professional, civic, service and social endeavors.

BPA is one of eight recognized members of the National Coordinating Council for Career and Technical Student Organizations (NCC-CTSO). CTSOs are co-curricular groups that help students in career and technical education programs further their knowledge and skills by participating in activities, events, and competitions.

Identify and promote/provide quality skills needed in the visual and interactive community.


Stay Connected

For the latest news, updates, and insights into our program, be sure to follow us on Facebook to see student projects, get tips and inspiration, and stay informed about upcoming events and opportunities.

David Brandstetter

Visual Communications and Design Program Professor & Coordinator

319-398-5899 ext. 5749

david.brandstetter@kirkwood.edu

Questions?

Arts & Humanities
2092 Cedar Hall
319-398-4913
arts@kirkwood.edu