Fresno Pacific University

What you'll study

The program begins with lower-division prerequisites and progresses through core art courses and focused graphic-design studio work. Key topics and courses listed in the catalog include:

• Lower-division prerequisites (6 units): ART 126 Principles of Creativity and Innovation; ART 150 Principles of Design.
• Required core courses (24 units): ART 140 Drawing I; ART 165 Color Theory; ART 325 Modern and Contemporary Art; ART 350 History of Western Art; ART 370 High Performance Practices; ART 372 Creative Problem Solving; ART 460 World Art; ART 475 Career Development.
• Graphic Design major courses (24 units): ART 130 Typography I; ART 230 Basic Graphic Design; ART 335 Intermediate Graphic Design; ART 360 Typography II; ART 430 Advanced Graphic Design; ART 450 Project in Art; ART 482 Internship in Art; COM 390 UI/UX Web Design.
• Selectable supporting options (choose one, 3 credits): ART 215 Photography; ART 375 Creative Leadership; COM 350 Visual Rhetoric; COM 410 Media and Society; MKT 300 Principles of Marketing; MKT 307 Advertising and Promotion; or Study Abroad - Graphic Design.

Entry requirements

Applicants submit an online or mail-in application and official transcripts sent electronically to trans.evaluator@fresno.edu or by institution mail. The FAFSA may be completed beginning October 1; FPU's FAFSA code is 001253. Recommended high-school preparation includes 4 years of college-preparatory English, 3 years of mathematics, 2 years of social studies, 1 year of laboratory science, 1 year of performing art, and 3 years of the same foreign language (grade C- or better). The catalog notes that accepted students typically have average GPAs of 3.2–3.6; prospective students should speak with an admissions counselor about eligibility. The catalog also describes re-application and re-admission procedures for former or previously admitted students.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for roles in marketing, digital media, web and interactive design, nonprofit communication and related creative industries. The curriculum targets professional readiness through portfolio development, internships and faculty instruction from practitioners, so students build demonstrable work for employers and clients.

Scholarships & funding angle

Fresno Pacific encourages applicants to complete the FAFSA (FPU FAFSA code 001253) to access federal aid and institutional funding. The program page highlights internships and career-development coursework as pathways to professional opportunities, while prospective students can discuss scholarships and financial aid options with the admissions and financial-aid offices.