Overview

The Visual Communication Design B.F.A. at Cal Poly Pomona University provides a comprehensive professional education that prepares students to interpret, inform, and persuade through visual media. This programme addresses the physical, cultural, and technological aspects of design, ensuring graduates can meet functional communication needs in a global society. Students engage with environmental and ethical issues while developing a unique creative voice.

Why Visual Communication Design at Cal Poly Pomona University?

As part of the College of Environmental Design, the programme is distinguished by its commitment to social and ethical awareness. Students benefit from facilities such as the woodshop, printmaking, and ceramics studios, fostering a multidisciplinary approach to visual arts. The curriculum is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD), ensuring high standards of teaching excellence.

The university hosts an annual industry night, providing a prestigious venue for graduating seniors to showcase their work to design professionals. This event, alongside juried exhibitions, connects students directly with the industry. Furthermore, the capstone course involves portfolio reviews by established alumni and leaders in the design field, offering invaluable professional feedback.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 13320 per year
National fee: USD 13320 per year
Local fee: USD 6450 per year

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

Syllabus

The curriculum consists of 120 units, with studio work beginning at the freshman level and increasing in intensity. Modules may include:

Visual Organization
Color Theory
Drawing
Typography
Design History
Professional Practices in Visual Communication Design
Information Hierarchy
Interactive Media
Symbolic Representation

Careers with Visual Communication Design

Graduates are prepared for entry-level professional roles across various sectors of the design industry. The programme focuses on developing a body of work that demonstrates technical mastery and the ability to solve complex communication problems independently. Potential career paths include roles in print-based design, interactive media, and environmental design.

The annual industry night specifically facilitates connections between graduates and employers, helping students secure positions in communication design. Alumni often progress to become industry leaders, returning to the university to mentor current students and review professional portfolios.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

3D Design
Illustration
Professional Practices in VCD
Visual Communication Design

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-08-22 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-11-30 00:00:00

Language

English

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Pomona, United States

Disciplines

Design Visual Arts Communication Studies View 831 other Bachelors in Design 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

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Other requirements

General requirements

Undergraduate applicants (freshmen and transfer) – If you have attended school in the U.S., you will be asked to enter your U.S. coursework on your Cal State Apply application. If you attended school outside of the U.S., you will not need to enter your coursework. However, you will be asked to mail a copy of such international transcripts so that we may assess your academic profile.
A $70 non-refundable application filing fee must be paid at the time of application submission. Instructions for payment can be found on Cal State Apply.

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

13320 USD / year

≈ 13320 USD / year
Out-of-State

13320 USD / year

≈ 13320 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

6450 USD / year

≈ 6450 USD / year

Living costs

Pomona

United States

1100 - 1600 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

Pomona

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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