Southern Methodist University

What you'll study

This undergraduate programme emphasises hands-on studio work, design thinking and applied projects across multiple media. Early courses develop core visual skills—drawing, colour, form and composition—alongside digital fundamentals such as image-making and basic coding for designers. You will progress into discipline-specific modules that commonly include typography, graphic design, branding, interaction and user experience design, motion graphics, packaging and environmental/exhibition design.

• Foundation Studios: observational drawing, 2D/3D design, visual fundamentals.
• Digital Practice: image editing, vector graphics, web design basics and motion tools.
• Design Theory & Context: history of design, visual culture, research methods and design thinking.
• Specialised Topics: typography, UX/UI, interaction design, packaging, wayfinding and environmental graphics.
• Professional Practice: client-based projects, portfolio development, freelancing and business/entrepreneurship for creatives.
• Capstone / Senior Project: a substantial, self-directed project demonstrating process, craft and professional readiness.
• Experiential Learning: internships, collaborative studio projects and cross-disciplinary work with other departments (e.g. business, theatre, engineering).

Entry requirements

Admission typically requires a secondary school completion credential recognised by the university and a demonstrated interest in visual arts or design. Applicants are expected to submit a portfolio of creative work that shows drawing ability, compositional thinking and evidence of process. SMU reviews applications holistically, so strong academic performance, letters of recommendation and a personal statement outlining design interests and goals are important.

• High-school diploma or equivalent.
• Portfolio submission with examples of studio, digital or applied design work; some programmes request process sketches and finished pieces.
• Preparatory coursework in art or design is recommended but not always required; coursework in mathematics/technology can be beneficial for certain design pathways.
• International applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a wide range of creative and applied roles across industry, culture and technology. The degree prepares students for positions where visual communication, user-centred thinking and problem solving are central.

• Graphic designer, branding and identity specialist
• UX/UI and interaction designer
• Motion graphics and multimedia designer
• Packaging designer and retail/visual merchandiser
• Environmental, exhibition or wayfinding designer
• Art director, creative director or studio manager
• Freelance designer, design consultant or entrepreneur
• Further study in graduate design programmes, fine arts or interdisciplinary disciplines

Why study at Southern Methodist University

SMU’s Meadows School of the Arts provides a studio-centred learning environment with access to well-equipped labs, fabrication studios, digital media suites and exhibition spaces. The programme benefits from the university’s close ties to Dallas’s vibrant creative economy, enabling internships, client projects and industry collaborations. Students work with practising faculty and visiting professionals, and have opportunities for interdisciplinary projects with business, theatre and engineering programmes. Career services and an active alumni network support transitions into employment or postgraduate study.