This is an archived copy of the 2020-21 catalog. To access the most recent version of the catalog, please visit http://catalog.fitnyc.edu/.

http://fitnyc.edu/graphicdesign

School of Art and Design

Applications accepted for fall only.      NYSED: 24515     CIP: 50.0409 

The Graphic Design major provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to assume entry-level design positions in fashion, retailing, publishing, nonprofit organizations, and innovative design firms. Curriculum below is for the entering class of fall 2020. 

 
Semester 5Credits
MAJOR AREAGD 331 - Typography and Language2
GD 332 - Design in Cultural Context3
GD 345 - Core Studio I: Design and Methodology3
RELATED AREACT 303 - Dynamic Branding2
CT 321 - Print and Digital Production2
LIBERAL ARTSchoice - see Requirements*3
choice - see Requirements*: Liberal Arts/History of Art3
Semester 6
MAJOR AREAGD 333 - Typeface Design2
GD 346 - Core Studio II: Design and Culture3
choice - see Requirements*: Major Area Elective(s)2
RELATED AREACT 341 - Design for Web-based User Interface3
LIBERAL ARTSchoice - see Requirements*3
choice - see Requirements*3
Semester 7
MAJOR AREAGD 444 - Core Studio III: Design and Innovation3
GD 461 - Professional Preparation2
GD 491 - Senior Thesis Research3
choice - see Requirements*: Major Area Elective(s)2
RELATED AREAchoice - see Requirements*: Related Area Electives2
LIBERAL ARTSchoice - see Requirements*3
Semester 8
MAJOR AREAGD 492 - Senior Thesis Project3
GD 493 - Internship4
LIBERAL ARTSchoice - see Requirements*3
GENERAL ELECTIVE(S)choice of General Elective(s)2
TOTAL CREDIT REQUIREMENTS
GENERAL ELECTIVE(S)2
MAJOR AREA32
RELATED AREA9
LIBERAL ARTS18
 Total Credits: 61
 

*Fall 2020 Requirements: See below.

Liberal Arts: 18 credits

  • History of Art: 6 credits. CHOICE of one (1) HA course that meets General Education Other World Civilizations requirement (G9) and one (1) additional HA course. See the full list of Art/Design History courses under HA: History of Art and Civilization.

Liberal Arts Elective(s): 12 credits. 
Select Liberal Arts courses (for which prerequisites have been met) from the following subject areas: AB (Arabic); CH (Chinese); EN (English); FI (Film and Media) – any FI course other than FI 205, 261, 361, 461, 362, and 462FR (French); HA (History of Art);  HE (Health Education) 201, 301; IT (Italian); JA (Japanese); MU (Music); HI (History); MA (Math); MC (Modern Languages and Cultures); PE (Physical Education and Dance) 215, 216, 217; PL (Philosophy); PO (Portuguese); SC (Science); SP (Spanish); and SS (Social Sciences). 

Major Area Elective(s): 4 credits 
CHOICE of GD 334GD 335GD 347, or GD 361

Related Area Elective(s): 2 credits  
CHOICE of any one or two elective course(s) in Art and Design (for which prerequisites have been met) totaling 2 credits

Upon graduating from the Graphic Design BFA program, students will be able to:

  1. Design with typography as a primary element in graphic design.
  2. Execute innovative typographic solutions that transcend cultural trends.
  3. Implement professional presentation techniques (including verbal and visual) and apply them when needed.
  4. Discuss and explain current design issues.
  5. Create a professional portfolio that demonstrates problem-solving expertise (including advanced typography, creative concepts, and innovative solutions necessary for an entry-level design position at leading graphic design firm).
  6. Create original work which meets professional industry standards.
  7. Analyze industry trends and adapt to evolving design challenges.