Communication Design
Educating the future of visual problem-solving in design
Communication Design is the transformation of information, ideas, and emotions into visual materials and experiences using typography, photography, drawing/image-making, animation, and more. Communication designers collaborate across disciplines using visual storytelling to educate, entertain, and/or persuade audiences to meet diverse human needs.
Our Nationally ranked Bachelor of Science in Design - Communication Design major provides a platform for discovery, experimentation, and specialization by way of strong foundational skills, critical and cultural theory, experiential learning, craft and conceptual, technological literacy, with opportunities for students to author their individual curricular pathway through elective coursework. Communication Design students build a foundation in visual problem-solving through a sequential curriculum including graphic, interaction, and motion design studios. They are exposed to hands-on professional practice in the field.
#5
National Best Visual Communication Design Program, College Factual
#1
Midwest Graphic Design School, Animation Career Review
#15
National Graphic Design School, Animation Career Review
This program has allowed me to explore various roles, industries, and work environments deeply —awarding me the confidence to enter the next phase of life with a strong direction, passion for the work ahead, and many inspiring mentors to continue to guide me.
Ellen Stevenot '24
Ellen Stevenot,
Communication Design, Class of 2024
Student Work
Program Overview
| Program Duration: | Minimum Credits: | Offered Degree: |
|---|---|---|
| 5 Years | 120 | Bachelor of Science |
Co-op Program
At the University of Cincinnati, we believe that learning is doing, and doing is learning.
All Communication Design majors participate in the UC Co-op Program. Students have the opportunity for hands-on professional practice in the field through five, paid semester-long co-op experiences. Co-op is a great opportunity to experience the design industry nationally while students build their professional experience and resume during their studies at UC.
Study Abroad
Communication Design students can opt to Study Abroad during their fourth year of study with one of the program’s institutional partners. Tangible benefits to studying abroad include personal growth, independent travel opportunities, and increased career prospects after graduation.
Students earn UC credits for their coursework abroad while having life-changing and unique experiences.
Make the world your classroom as you earn credit for coursework abroad.
Communities and Clubs
Join the Communication Design program community by getting involved in a design-based club:
DAAP–SEGD Student Chapter: SEGD-DAAP Students Chapter will work toward introducing students to the profession of Experiential Graphic Design (EGD) by creating exciting events geared towards its emerging student chapter. The community will serve as stewards to further the Society of Experiential Graphic Design's (SEGD) mission at academic institutions, promoting the SEGD skills, advanced technology while adding value to the collective experience.
Type Club: Typography Club provides a platform for enthusiasts to share their passion for typography, fostering a sense of camaraderie and informal connection among faculty and students. Through collaborative projects, experimental workshops, students not only mingle to share knowledge but also develop valuable technical skills and detailed insights, enriching their experience through peer-to-peer learning outside classrooms. Typograph Club does not judge any people, it only judges Type.
UC Design for America: A group of passionate people learning how to apply human-centered design to local and social challenges as innovators through extra-curricular, university-based, student-led design studios.
University of Cincinnati Riso Club: Riso Club seeks to educate students on the production techniques, qualities, and benefits of risograph printing; it is a resource for the betterment of interdisciplinary collaboration between visual design and different forms of expression across the University’s campus and beyond (like poetry, activism, literature, event promotion, etc.)
Scholarships and Financial Resources
Thanks to the generosity of numerous alumni and friends of the college, scholarships are available to students in the College of Design, Architecture, Art, and Planning.
Apply to our Bachelor of Science in Communication Design Program
The University of Cincinnati’s Communication Design program features an industry-leading experience through a proven curriculum. Interested in learning more? Request more information today!
Connect with our Program:
Staff
Renee Seward-Nettle,
Associate Professor, Communication Design Coordinator
513-556-5886
Co-op College Advisor
Faculty
Renee Seward-Nettle,
Associate Professor, Communication Design Coordinator
513-556-5886
Questions?
Students are encouraged to explore the information on our website and contact the DAAP Student Affairs team with any admissions questions.