Why Design at UT? 

We know that design is not a formula. It is not a linear means to an end, but fluid and filled with questions, roundabouts, bright beginnings, and surprising outcomes. Studios are open spaces for dialogue and creative exploration among a cohort of students who challenge and inspire each other in the most compassionate of ways. Students follow their curiosities, take risks, learn to listen deeply and make resourcefully alongside faculty who are dedicated to their education. We know that design requires processes led by both intuition and strategic thinking with a side of humor and humility. A graphic design education at UT prepares students for moving into experiences that are led by critical thinking, empathetic understanding, and the desire to live a life of creativity. 

Spaces and Resources 

Studio 02 is the maker space for graphic design. Equipped with a risograph, a large-format printer, and two small-format printers, it serves as the production hub of the program. Students have 24/7 access to this room, which supports printing, scanning, binding, and among other assembly resources.  

The Digital Futures Lab provides a full complement of AR/VR technologies that bring visualization to reality in virtual formats. While the Fab Lab and woodshop complete physical making with 3D printing and rapid prototyping options using substrates like foam, wood, and plastic. 

Coursework occurs in dedicated classrooms while upper division students have access to a bright and open studio setting in which to work individually or collaboratively.  

Alumni and Career Trajectories 

A degree in graphic design prepares students to enter a wide range of creative professions in settings that are just as varied. From design and advertising agencies [Robin Easter Design, ZeusJones, Tombras, Morris Creative, Redemption Branding, Matchstic, McKinney, GS&F] to in-house teams [Coca-Cola, Nashville Predators, Pilot Company, Jeni’s Splendid Ice Cream, Google, Regal Theaters, St. Jude’s], our alumni are thriving as design professionals across the country.  

Our Degrees 

Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design 

Supplement Your Major 

Minors 

The Graphic Design Studies Minor is open to students from any discipline across the university interested in enhancing their major field of study with an understanding of graphic design. Students will receive a broad introduction to concepts, processes, modes of visual communication, and the influence of design in today’s world without the intensive, studio-driven experience of the major. The 3 required lecture-based core classes couple with a selection of classes from across several colleges that allow further focus within the minor. 

From Foundations to Portfolio 

The School of Design requires no portfolio for entry. Rather, students spend their first year in a rigorous foundations program that prepares them for application into the upper division coursework in graphic design. This creates a level playing field for anyone, regardless of their creative background, to work towards a graphic design degree. Upon completion of foundations, students engage in a structured review process in which they are assessed for engagement, growth, potential, and the professionalism needed for advanced coursework in the program.