Overview

The Design and Visual Communication programme at the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee offers a dynamic environment for students to master the art of graphic design. This Bachelor of Fine Arts degree empowers creative thinkers to challenge traditional norms through a curriculum that functions as an evolving design laboratory.

The course is deeply rooted in community and emphasises the importance of empathy, visual literacy, and critical thinking. Students engage in diverse projects that cover methodologies, design histories, and various modes of production. This approach ensures graduates are prepared to participate actively in visual culture and commerce.

Why Design and Visual Communication at University of Wisconsin Milwaukee?

Students benefit from the aDream Lab, a specialised makerspace featuring 3D printers, laser cutters, and large-format digital printers. The facility includes dedicated spaces for both fabrication and final design polishing. Access to professional cameras, lighting kits, and audio-visual equipment supports high-level production across all projects.

The university provides unique networking opportunities through partnerships with organisations like AIGA Wisconsin and United Adworkers. Students receive a free annual membership to the Milwaukee Art Museum, offering inspiration from world-class exhibitions. These connections help bridge the gap between academic study and the professional design industry.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 24368 per year
National fee: USD 24368 per year
Local fee: USD 11768 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum focuses on building a professional body of work through practical and theoretical study. Modules may include:

Composition
Typography
Design Process
Methodologies and Research
Portfolio Development
Web and Multimedia Design
Design Entrepreneurship
Ceramics
Creative Technologies
Digital Fabrication
Fibers
Jewelry & Metalsmithing
Painting & Drawing
Photography & Imaging
Printmaking & Book Arts
Sculpture

Careers with Design and Visual Communication

Graduates are prepared for a wide array of roles within the creative industries and corporate sectors. Many find success as graphic designers, art directors, or web developers. The programme also supports paths into specialised fields such as user experience design, packaging design, and interactive media.

The diverse skill set gained allows alumni to work in advertising agencies, marketing firms, and non-profit organisations. Potential career titles include brand manager, illustrator, exhibit designer, and creative services manager. Many students also pursue entrepreneurial paths or freelance opportunities in the global design market.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Drawing
Art Survey: Creative Practice, Culture and Context
2D Studio: Concept, Color and Composition
3D Studio: Form, Idea and Technique
Digital Arts: Culture, Theory, Practice
Moving Images and Sound in Art & Design

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-09-02 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-08-01 00:00:00 , National
Starting 2027-01-25 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-12-01 00:00:00
Starting 2027-09-02 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-06-01 00:00:00 , International

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

120

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TOEFL^® IBT

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PTE Academic

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Milwaukee, United States

Disciplines

Design Visual Arts Graphic Design View 1635 other Bachelors in Visual Arts in United States

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

120

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

Online Application
There is no fee to apply for an undergraduate (bachelor’s level) program.
Evidence of English Proficiency
Transcripts and Degree Certificates
SAT or ACT scores are not included in our bachelor’s application requirements, but you can submit them if you have them.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

24368 USD / year

≈ 24368 USD / year
Out-of-State

24368 USD / year

≈ 24368 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

11768 USD / year

≈ 11768 USD / year

Living costs

Milwaukee

United States

1066 - 1767 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Design and Visual Communication.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Milwaukee

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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