Graphic Communications
- Overview
- Careers
- New Freshmen
- New Transfer
- Illinois State Students
Do you like to make visual things? That's what you'll be doing in graphic communications. We blend digital media and print media technology to design and produce integrated products that use photography, video, 3D animation, and digital print technology.
Graphic Communications students learn to become technical creative professionals, working in our labs on the latest cutting-edge graphic communications software and equipment.
This program is accredited by the Accrediting Council for Collegiate Graphic Communications (ACCGC).
Why Study Graphic Communications?
The graphic communications industry includes design studios, advertising agencies, digital printing companies, packaging graphics companies, and much more. It is one of the 10 largest industries in the United States and includes more than 50,000 businesses distributed throughout all 50 states.
Close to one million people are employed in this industry, and the Chicago area is one of the most dynamic graphics centers in the country, employing thousands of graphic communications workers.
Related Skills
Classroom experiences engage students in creative problem solving while they learn about technology and management practices related to the production and distribution of graphic media in its many forms. Key skill areas include:
- Creative problem solving
- Process and pattern visualization
- Applying computer applications
- Ability to adapt to technological change
- Applying math and communications
- Thinking logically
- Working well with people
Being Successful in the Field
- Enjoy working with people from many walks of life in a client-service environment.
- Adapt to and keep abreast of constant technological change.
- Be sensitive to financial and economic aspects of graphic media production.
- Gain experience with an internship in the field.
- Be willing to start at an entry-level and work to achieve more advanced positions.
- Learn independently on computer applications to achieve an expert level.
- Effectively apply technology management principles to graphic communications.
- Be able to coordinate complex projects.
Related Fields
- Photography
- Graphic Design
- Computer Networking
- Marketing
- Finance
- Business Administration
- Packaging
- Information Management
- Manufacturing
- Publishing
- Software Development
- Research and Development
- Training
Employers
- Publishers
- Newspaper companies
- Corporate media departments
- Government media divisions
- Advertising agencies
- Commercial printers
- Marketing firms
- Software companies
- College and university media services
- Small businesses that require Web or print management staff.
Career Advising
| Name | Office | Phone | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Megan Kayfish | 110 Student Services Building | meturne@ilstu.edu | (309) 438-0735 |
Internship Coordinator
| Name | Office | Phone | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ted Branoff | Turner Hall 215 | tjbrano@ilstu.edu | (309) 438-3661 |
Applying to Illinois State
Illinois State's preferred filing period for freshman students for the fall semester is September 1-November 15. Applying early is encouraged, as the University must limit enrollment due to space at the University and in specific majors/programs. Visit the Office of Admissions to apply today!
Plan of Study
This information is based on requirements for the academic year(s) indicated. Students should consult the catalog year they were admitted under for their academic requirements.
Applying to Illinois State
Illinois State's preferred filing period for fall transfer students is September 1-January 15. For the spring semester, the preferred filing period is from April 1-August 1. You are encouraged to apply early in the preferred filing period for best consideration for admission into competitive majors. Visit the Office of Admissions to apply today!
Minimum GPA
2.50
Middle 50% GPA
2.66 - 3.31
Required Courses
None
Recommended Courses
- Finite Math (MAT 120)
- Statistics (MQM 100 or ECO 138)
- Introduction to Psychology (PSY 110)
- Physics
- Introduction to Chemistry
Plan of Study
This information is based on requirements for the academic year(s) indicated. Students should consult the catalog year they were admitted under for their academic requirements.
Academic Advising
| Name | Office | Phone | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ashley Berg | Turner Hall 215B | ahowe2@ilstu.edu | (309) 438-2665 |
Middle 50% GPA
2.66 - 3.31
Plan of Study
This information is based on requirements for the academic year(s) indicated. Students should consult the catalog year they were admitted under for their academic requirements.
Application Period
Fall 2018: Applications now open. Applications close December 15.
2019 and beyond: Applications open February 1-28, May 1-31, and September 1-30.
Application Information
Current students can use the Apply to Your Program tool on My.IllinoisState.edu.
Academic Advising
| Name | Office | Phone | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ashley Berg | Turner Hall 215B | ahowe2@ilstu.edu | (309) 438-2665 |