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The graduate program in design, specializing in visual communication, caters to those aiming to advance their careers in design education or professional practice. It focuses on exploring visual and theoretical research while examining the interplay between functionality and creativity in solving design challenges. Participants will gain proficiency in articulating their research and studio projects both verbally and in writing.
Students will cultivate their own distinctive style, methodology, and artistic perspective in creative endeavors.
They will acquire an understanding of historical, social, and cultural contexts relevant to visual communication and articulate how these factors shape their work.
Participants will hone their skills in crafting expressive visual forms and applying them effectively for communication purposes.
Please submit your statement in the “Statement of Intent” section of the application. This 700-1000 word essay sheds light on the applicant’s practice and research interests. It should directly place the work being reviewed within the context of contemporary art/theoretical discourses while also addressing goals with respect to graduate school and what the applicant hopes to accomplish after VCU. For admission to graduate study at VCU, the Graduate School requires an undergraduate GPA of 3.0. or better, however, an individual department may waive this requirement as identified through a holistic review of an application. For students with earned graduate degrees from accredited institutions, the graduate GPA may be the primary basis for consideration. Letters of recommendation from instructors or professional references in the applicant’s intended field of study may be required. Applicants are encouraged to visit individual department and program sections of the Graduate Bulletin for information about specific requirements.