Overview

The Visual Communication Design programme at the University of Kansas provides students with a deep understanding of how graphic design influences and narrates the world around us. This professional degree prepares creative thinkers to solve complex communication problems across various physical and digital environments. Students learn to present ideas and influence choices through sophisticated visual strategies.

Based in the Department of Design within the School of Architecture & Design, the curriculum balances theoretical knowledge with practical application. The programme is designed to evolve alongside the changing professional landscape, ensuring graduates are ready for modern industry demands. Students engage in a rigorous creative process that spans from initial concept to final production.

Why Visual Communication Design at the University of Kansas?

Students benefit from an environment that has been accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design since 1968. The university provides exceptional facilities, including dedicated studio spaces, computer labs, and specialised resources like the letterpress and Riso labs. These tools allow for extensive experimentation in both traditional and contemporary design methods.

The learning experience is further enriched by the Professional Design Lecture Series, which has connected students with world-renowned designers for four decades. Collaborative opportunities with industry partners and options for semester-long internships provide vital professional exposure. Additionally, students can participate in short-term study abroad programmes to gain a global perspective on design.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 30177 per year
National fee: USD 30177 per year
Local fee: USD 11298 per year

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

Syllabus

The first year begins with foundation courses before students transition into specialised major requirements. Modules may include:

Visual Communication
Design Thinking
Visual Problem Solving
Drawing
Graphic Design
Motion Design
Branding
Typography
Digital Media

Careers with Visual Communication Design

Graduates from this programme are equipped to pursue diverse roles within the creative industries. Many alumni find success as graphic designers, marketing creatives, and motion designers. The skills acquired during the course allow for flexibility across various sectors, including advertising, publishing, and digital interface design.

The department produces socially-engaged leaders who thrive as innovative practitioners in global design firms and boutique agencies. Alumni also work as storytellers and TV writers, demonstrating the broad applicability of the visual communication toolkit. The programme's strong emphasis on professional development ensures that graduates are prepared for high-level roles in the ever-changing design field.

Programme Structure

Courses:

Typography
Visual Communication Design
Designing Understanding
Letterpress
Designing for Social Interactions
Exhibition Design
Environmental Graphics

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-08-18 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-07-25 00:00:00 , National
Starting 2027-01-21 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-11-15 00:00:00 , International
- Apply before 2026-12-01 00:00:00 , National
Starting 2027-08-18 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-06-01 00:00:00 , International

Language

English

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Lawrence, United States

Disciplines

Design Visual Arts View 840 other Bachelors in Design in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

2.5

English requirements

TOEFL^® IBT

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PTE Academic

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IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

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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

A minimum grade point average of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale for all previous coursework, including transfer coursework.
KU’s $90 application processing fee, payable by credit card.
English proficiency scores sent to KU by your testing agency.
Proof of high school graduation particular to your country.
Academic records. They can accept unofficial transcripts as part of the application, however, they must receive official transcripts before you enroll in an academic program.
If applicable: Educational Gap Statement. If, after high school, there was a period of time longer than three months that you were not enrolled in any educational program, you must write a short statement about your activity during that time. If you attended courses of any kind, include that information.
If applicable: SAT or ACT scores.

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

30177 USD / year

≈ 30177 USD / year
Out-of-State

30177 USD / year

≈ 30177 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

11298 USD / year

≈ 11298 USD / year

Living costs

Lawrence

United States

900 - 1400 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 Visual Communication Design.

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

Lawrence

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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