Brigham Young University

What you'll study

The programme combines foundational art and design studio work with specialised applied-arts topics and professional practice. Early study typically covers drawing, two- and three-dimensional design, colour theory and basic digital tools. Core studios move on to typography, visual communication, layout and branding, user-centred digital design, materials and manufacturing for product work, and environmental/space design concepts.

• Foundation courses: observational drawing, composition, colour and form
• Design studios: graphic design, interaction/UX design, packaging and product concepting
• Digital skills: vector and raster techniques, web and interface design, motion basics
• History and theory: design history, visual culture and contemporary issues in design
• Professional practice: portfolio development, design process, client projects and ethics
• Capstone and practicum: a senior project or exhibition and opportunities for internships or community-based design projects

Students also complete the university's general-education requirements, which support communication, critical thinking and cultural literacy. Electives allow exploration in related disciplines such as photography, illustration, animation or business of design.

Entry requirements

Admission to the university is required before declaring this major. In addition to university admission, the design programme normally asks applicants to submit a creative portfolio that demonstrates observational and conceptual work, digital and/or analogue processes, and an ability to communicate visually. Departments typically review portfolios and may require an interview or brief statement of purpose.

Standard academic expectations include a completed secondary education with transcripts. International applicants must meet BYU's general admission standards and provide documentary evidence of academic preparation; additional language proficiency evidence may be required where applicable. Specific portfolio guidelines and departmental admission information are published by the College of Fine Arts and Communications.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a broad range of careers in creative industries. Common roles include:

• Graphic designer, brand designer or art director in agencies and in-house teams
• UX/UI designer and product designer for digital teams and tech companies
• Industrial or product designer working with manufacturers and makers
• Illustrator, motion designer or multimedia artist for media and entertainment
• Design consultant, creative project manager or entrepreneur running a studio or freelance practice
• Educator, gallery/museum technician or roles in cultural institutions

The programme’s emphasis on portfolio development, internships and community projects helps graduates transition into professional practice or further study in specialised design disciplines and graduate programmes.

Why study at Brigham Young University

BYU offers a strong undergraduate focus with accessible faculty who balance teaching and active professional engagement. The university’s College of Fine Arts and Communications provides studio facilities, workshops and exhibition spaces that support hands-on learning and public showcasing of student work.

Students benefit from a values-oriented campus culture and the university’s connections with the regional creative and tech economy, providing internship and employment opportunities across the Salt Lake City area and beyond. BYU also supports study-abroad programmes, interdisciplinary collaboration and organised student exhibitions and competitions to build real-world experience and professional networks.