Graphic Design students critique package design renderings

Graphic Design

Learn how to express yourself visually across a variety of platforms, from interactive and environmental art to print publications and UX/UI-focused apps and websites.

In demand skills for real-world success

As a graphic design student, you'll learn a rich array of graphic design tools and work closely with faculty to broaden your understanding of the design field. You will utilize design thinking to work in both self-initiated and client-associated environments. You'll be prepared to work at the best agencies and studios in careers such as art director, app designer or branding designer, or even teach at the college or university level. You'll learn from distinguished and professionally active graphic design faculty who represent the full spectrum of the industry, and you'll graduate ready to be successful in this competitive job market.


Degrees & Offerings

Art: Graphic Design (MFA)

Master’s
  Vermillion Main Campus

As a graduate graphic design student, you will have opportunities to participate in assistantships, dedicated studio and work stations and leadership within the art community at USD. You will take upper level courses in typography, digital and print studio, package design, design methods, graphic design concepts and theories, master's portfolio, master's thesis and independent study coursework, which allows you to customize your program of study to match your career goals and art interests. 

Learn more about the art program

View Admissions Requirements

Program Details

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Graduate Admissions

Departments & Facilities

Explore the departments, facilities and centers that contribute to your education in the only College of Fine Art in the state.
Students in an art gallery

Art

The Department of Art will provide you with unique and applicable real-world experience and connections that enable you to immerse yourself in an environment built for personal and creative discovery.

USD Graphic Design Facilities

Our Design Studio

Here are some of the facilities and resources available to graphic design students:

 

  • Networked computer software template
  • 27” iMac studio space with 24/7 access
  • Access to full Adobe CC suite and current design software
  • Letterpress and type shop capabilities
  • Fully equipped printing shop with 44" wide Epson 9800 poster printer, Epson 4900 large format photographic-quality printer and HP750 17" LaserJet printer
  • Large platform laser cutter
  • Ultimaker 3D printers and 3D scanners
  • Graduate studios with office and work stations
  • Design exhibition space in Sioux Falls, South Dakota
The USD Graphic Design program overview.

Graphic designers thrive at USD

Focused on learning and gaining real-world skills through one-on-one interaction with professors who care about your career goals.

 

Express Who You Are
USD AIGA students participate with float in the Dakota Days Homecoming parade

Connect with local designers

As a graphic design major at USD, you can get involved and become a member of the local American Institute of Graphic Art (AIGA) chapter which provides opportunities in the local design community and builds leadership skills that will be invaluable as they move into the professional world. 


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Surprisingly Affordable

Whether you’ve recently completed your undergraduate degree, or you want to kick your career up a notch, graduate school is the next logical step. The good news is there is funding for both online and on-campus students to get you through your program. 

Graduate Tuition & Costs

Learn more about tuition and fees for undergraduate students and see how your out-of-pocket costs at USD compare to those at other colleges and universities. Visit the Graduate Tuition & Costs Detailed page for program specific costs and fees.

Financial Aid

Navigating options for how to pay for college can be challenging, but you are not alone. The Office of Financial Aid will work with you and your family to explore how you can make your college education even more affordable.

Graduate Assistantships

USD offers opportunities for grad students to earn a reduced tuition rate in exchange for their teaching, research and service efforts to the university.

 


Hear from A USD Alum

Success story Joe Schaeffer smiling.
As I considered a Master of Fine Arts program that specialized in graphic design, I was impressed with the skill and knowledge of the instructors teaching the program at USD.  I am certain they will provide me with the tools I need to succeed in the graphic design industry.

Joe Schaeffer

MFA, Graphic Design '19
Assistant Professor, University of Sioux Falls
Sioux Falls, South Dakota

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