Marywood University

What you'll study

This programme combines foundational art and design courses with specialised studio work and liberal-arts inquiry. Early coursework typically covers drawing, two- and three-dimensional design, colour theory and visual fundamentals to build technical and conceptual fluency. Core design modules explore typography, branding, editorial and publication design, digital imaging, web and interface design, photography, and motion graphics. Applied arts options may include ceramics, printmaking, textile design and product or environmental design, allowing students to pursue craft-based practices alongside digital workflows.

Students progress to intermediate and advanced studios that emphasise process, research and client-focused projects. Coursework commonly includes design history and theory, professional practice, portfolio development and a senior capstone or thesis project that culminates in an exhibition or client presentation. The curriculum also integrates general-education requirements to strengthen critical thinking, written communication and cultural context.

• Foundation studios: drawing, 2D/3D design, colour theory
• Core design: typography, branding, editorial, digital imaging
• Digital technologies: web design, UX/UI basics, motion graphics
• Applied arts electives: ceramics, printmaking, textiles, product design
• Professional practice: portfolio, internships, client projects, capstone

Teaching and assessment

Teaching is studio-based and project-driven, with a mix of hands-on workshops, critiques, seminars and technology lab sessions. Assessment typically involves project briefs, portfolios, written reflections and public exhibition of student work.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a high school diploma or recognised equivalent. A creative portfolio demonstrating observational drawing, idea development and recent creative work is an important part of the application. Admissions also review academic transcripts and a personal statement outlining artistic interests and goals. Applicants may be asked for one or more letters of recommendation.

Marywood welcomes applicants from diverse backgrounds; international applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements. Mature and transfer students should provide college transcripts and may be asked to submit a portfolio for placement in the appropriate level of studio courses.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a range of roles in creative industries and cultural organisations. Typical career paths include:

• Graphic designer or brand designer in agencies and in-house teams
• Digital designer or UX/UI designer for web and mobile applications
• Illustrator, editorial or packaging designer
• Product, exhibition or environmental designer
• Art director, visual merchandiser or creative producer
• Roles in galleries, museums, arts education and community arts programmes

Many graduates also work as freelancers or start small studios, and others continue to postgraduate study in design, fine art or related disciplines.

Why study at Marywood University

Marywood offers a personalised undergraduate environment with small class sizes and close mentorship from practising faculty. The curriculum links studio practice to a broad liberal-arts education, supporting both technical skill-building and critical thinking. Students benefit from access to dedicated studios and digital labs, opportunities for internships and community-engaged projects in the Scranton region, and regular exhibition and portfolio-review events that connect students with employers and alumni.

The university’s emphasis on ethical and community-focused practice, together with interdisciplinary collaboration across departments, makes Marywood a strong choice for students who want a grounded, studio-intensive education with professional preparation in design and applied arts.