Frequently Asked Questions

The Virginia Tech Graphic Design program is intentionally designed as a highly sequential, studio-based curriculum. Rather than taking a collection of independent design courses, students progress through a carefully structured sequence in which each course builds on the knowledge, skills, and projects developed in previous semesters.

All students, including transfer students, complete the same progression, comprising of a three-course typography sequence, seven sequential design studios, and coursework in human-centered design, interaction design, accessibility, systems thinking, and professional practice. Because these experiences are interconnected, previously completed graphic design courses from other institutions do not replace required Graphic Design coursework at Virginia Tech.

Regardless of transfer standing or previously earned credits, students entering the Graphic Design major should expect to complete the full four-year sequence of Graphic Design courses. Some transfer students may find themselves able to enroll part-time (3 credits each for their final two semesters) to complete their senior-level coursework. This reduces the amount of tuition/fees and allows space for professional work, additional internships, etc.

This structure ensures that every graduate develops a shared foundation and is fully prepared for advanced coursework, internships, and professional practice. 

Yes, but Graphic Design is a restricted major. For more information, start here. Due to the sequential nature of our curriculum, it will take all students, including transfer students, 4 years (8 Fall/Spring semesters) to complete the Graphic Design major at Virginia Tech, regardless of prior college-level coursework. This timeline cannot be accelerated or condensed. Further, we do not allow outside graphic design courses to substitute for our graphic design requirements. 

No. While general education and university requirements may transfer, Graphic Design coursework from other institutions do not substitute for required Graphic Design courses at Virginia Tech because our curriculum is built as an integrated, sequential program in which each studio course prepares students for the next.

No. Students are directly admitted to the program upon being accepted to Virginia Tech. 

Throughout their freshmen and sophomore years, students take introductory graphic design courses that cover essential topics such as design and typographic principles, form-making, symbology, and layout design. These courses serve as a solid foundation for students to build upon as they progress to more advanced topics in their junior and senior years.

In their junior year, students take intermediate core courses that delve into more advanced topics such as packaging, hand lettering, web and app design, and data visualization. Additionally, they can enroll in special topic electives catering to their unique interests and career aspirations.

As students approach their senior year, the program focuses on preparing them for a successful career in the industry. This includes discussions on studio practices and portfolio preparation topics. Furthermore, students are required to enroll in an internship during their junior and/or senior year. Faculty members help students secure internship opportunities, including working at FourDesign, our program's faculty-led student-run design agency.

Check out our individual faculty pages!

• Awarded at many regional, national, and international design competitions, such as Graphic Design USA (GDUSA), the American Advertising Federation’s ADDYs, Communication Arts, and Hiiibrands (to name a few).
• Selected works have been published in quarterly magazines as well as esteemed design books like GDUSA, Logolounge, and Graphis.
• Presented at significant design conferences such as AIGA, AIGA Design Educators Community, and UCDA Design Educators Summit (to name a few).

Our courses are all studio-based with enrollment ranging between 15-24 students per class.

 DesignUP is a philanthropic design-a-thon where graphic design students, mentored by design professionals, provide creative services for local nonprofit (and select small business) organizations.

Please see the University's Computer Requirements page for important considerations about purchasing a new computer. The minimum system requirements for the Graphic Design major are indicated here. We require MacBook Pro laptops because the Mac platform is the industry standard and works best with Adobe products. Please note that a MacBook Air is not powerful enough to meet the needs of a Graphic Design student.

All incoming Graphic Design students are automatically billed for the Undergraduate Bundle and Adobe Creative Cloud prior to the start of their first semester. Students will receive an email once they have been billed with information on how to access the software.

Many of our students find jobs as traditional print designers, branding and logo designers, UI/UX designers, or pursue a career in teaching by continuing their education in graduate school.