What kind of design do you teach?
The program revolves around the idea of blending conceptual problem solving with visual style as it relates to print design. Our graduates learn design in a way that allows them to tackle virtually any problem in any format and solve it in the most appropriate and creative way. We are not focused on technical design, i.e. web development or computer animation. We have web design, but our program is about much, much more. Our students create: Logos, Stationery, Packaging, Magazine Design, Apparel, Book Jackets, Music CDs, Annual Reports, Posters, Point-of-Purchase displays, Interactive, and much more.
What kind of students are you looking for?
We want a diverse variety of personalities and backgrounds in our students, however there is no set criteria in the graphic design area for portfolio quality, extra-curriculars, or even test scores. However, it is worth mentioning that students who excel as graphic designers often share the following characteristics:
Our best students:
- Want to be the best and are willing to work harder than the next person.
- Are not afraid to risk failure in order to succeed.
- Embrace criticism, ask questions, and don't worry too much about grades.
- Aren't afraid speak their minds or stand out from the crowd.
- Are smart, creative people.
Do I need a portfolio to get in?
Yes, you do. Click Here to learn more about it.
What kind of computer should I buy?
We have a great computer studio and we want to see our students in it. Working in the Center has a lot to do with growing as a designer and getting better. With that in mind, you don't need a shiny new Mac to get by in our program. If you have a PC or Mac in your room for emails and paper writing, great, but there is no computer requirement for the graphic design program.
How much art should I have taken in High School?
You need to have taken enough art in High School to produce a well executed and diverse portfolio of your work. Portfolios must contain examples of your drawing and/or painting ability. The most important characteristics for any college art student to have coming in the door are desire, discipline, and work ethic.
What computers and software do you use, how much should I already know?
We use Apple Mac G5 towers with wide-format cinema displays and the Adobe Creative Suite, which includes Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign, GoLive, and Acrobat. We also use Quark XPress. We provide software instruction for our students from scratch, and actually prefer that students know as little as possible about the software when they arrive.
Can I test out of the Computer Applications in Graphic Design class?
Absolutely not.
Can I apply as a transfer student?
Yes, you can. Simply submit your materials for application to the graphic design major when you apply for transfer to Susquehanna. However, you should be aware that you might not receive credit for the art or design classes you have taken at another institution; and that you may be required to start at the beginning of our curriculum. A reasonable expectation is that students who transfer to the graphic design major at Susquehanna should expect to be here for at least three years.
Do I need to come in as a Graphic Design major?
Graphic Design is a creative endeavor that leads to a highly competitive job market after graduation. We believe this is something that takes 4 years of hard work to properly prepare for. Not only do students need to learn how to solve problems, think visually, learn traditional art techniques, use evolving technology, understand client relationships and the print industry, and many other things; they need time to mature as artists and actually become professionally viable at all of those things. Students who have attempted to "cram it in" to 5 or 6 semesters have not fared nearly as well as those who took the appropriate amount of time. Therefore, we strongly advise that all majors come in as freshman.
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