Visual Communication Design

Tell stories, shape the world through graphic design

Graphic design is a vital aspect of communication that forms our perceptions and views of the world. As a student of visual communication design at Herron, you will learn new ways of thinking, seeing, and solving problems to create better solutions for the future.

From logos to branding systems, book covers to motion media, website design to mobile app interfaces, classroom projects set the standards for professional practice. Working across media, you will develop the ability to deliver effective outcomes and design solutions that take into account contexts, relationships, and experiences with the artifacts you have designed. You will also study a variety of formal design principles and the theory and history of visual communication design, while learning how to navigate the evolving nature of emerging technologies.

Herron's visual communication design program provides students with a deep understanding of the design process, the ability to work collaboratively, and the skills that are essential for a successful career in design.

Collaborative spaces

Herron’s eight visual communication design studios encourage a team-driven approach to projects. VCD students also have access to research and studio spaces including the Think It Make It Lab, woodshops, photo lighting studios, book arts studio, and the Herron Art Library.

Design for communities

Senior year in VCD brings a focus on experience design and related methods for engaging with people. Your final semester will culminate in a capstone project that you develop with a focus on either service experience or digital experience design, as well as a shared senior exhibition.

Plan of study

B.F.A. degree map

Critical courses and milestones for each semester towards a B.F.A. in visual communication design

IU Indianapolis Campus Bulletin

Required course names and descriptions for a B.F.A. in visual communication design

There is a culture in the VCD studios … [that] has allowed us to grow without judgment, truly be ourselves, and enjoy the process of becoming designers.
Haley Francis-Halstead (B.F.A. Visual Communication Design '19)

Student work

Clockwise from top: Shelby Elrod, FundCast, 2020. Branding and digital application. Chad Wysong, A *somewhat helpful but definitely mediocre* Survival Guide, 2020. Saddle stitched pocket guide. Bailey Weaver, Rally, 2020. Branding, collateral design, and prototyping. Courtesy of the artists

Foundation studies

Your first year at Herron focuses on skills that are crucial to your success in art and design school. You will explore basic principles and techniques, as well as your own historical, cultural, and personal influences as an artist or designer.

Learn more about foundation studies

Facilities

Herron’s VCD classrooms and studios offer a collaborative studio environment and ample open space for discussions and presentations. To bring your design visions to life, the following resources are at your disposal.

Adobe Creative Cloud available for free download
Inkjet printers and tabloid size laser printers
Shared studio spaces with individual desks for sophomores
Dedicated workstations in a shared studio for juniors and seniors
Flat file storage for sophomores and juniors

Portable whiteboards for collaborative teamwork
Ceiling mounted projectors and screens for presentations
Large cutting mats, saddle staplers, and paper cutters
Access to the Think It Make It Lab and woodshop as well as ceramics, photography, printmaking, and sculpture facilities

Enhance your degree

Pursuing a minor or certificate can help broaden your perspective and give you a competitive advantage in your chosen field.

Minor in Art History

Minor in Book Arts

Minor in Studio Art & Technology

Professional opportunities

With Herron's intensive visual communication design program you will be prepared for a number of career opportunities. In junior year, you become eligible for your required design internship, which provides valuable professional experience and, for many students, leads to a job offer.

Pursue your calling as a professional: