Overview

The Graphic Design programme at South Dakota State University provides a comprehensive foundation for students aiming to enter the professional world of visual communication. This degree focuses on the planning and execution of designs that meet the specific needs of diverse audiences and clients. Students are encouraged to develop a creative, expressive, and curious personality while mastering modern technology.

Why Graphic Design at South Dakota State University?

Students benefit from a dedicated School of Design that fosters an inspiring creative community. The curriculum is designed to transform students into visual masterminds capable of solving complex design challenges. Beyond the classroom, the university offers access to specialised clubs such as the American Institute of Graphic Arts and the Advertising Club to enhance professional networking.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 387 per credit
National fee: USD 387 per credit
Local fee: USD 267 per credit

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

Syllabus

The curriculum focuses on core design principles and technical proficiency. Modules may include:

Graphic Design
Web/Interactive Design
Advertising Design
Logo and Brand Identity Design
Animation
Printmaking
Studio Arts
Digital and Social Media

Careers with Graphic Design

Graduates are prepared for entry-level positions across various creative industries. Common career paths include roles as graphic designers, web designers, typeface designers, and art directors. Many alumni also find success as creative directors or brand identity specialists within marketing agencies and corporate design departments.

Graduates from this programme have secured employment with a range of notable organisations, including:

Lawrence and Schiller Advertising
Lemonly
Blend Interactive Web Strategies
NBC Universal Sports
Daktronics
IBM Design

Practical experience is highly encouraged through internship opportunities. Students have previously gained industry insights at the SDSU Wellness Center and various advertising firms, ensuring they are workplace-ready upon graduation.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Computer Graphics

Animation

Interactive Design

Design Research

Typography

Motion Graphics

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-01-11 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-11-01 00:00:00 , International
Starting 2027-08-24 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-06-15 00:00:00 , International

More details

National: SDSU accepts applications on a rolling admissions timeline.

Language

English

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IELTS

5.5

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Brookings, United States

Disciplines

Graphic Design View 609 other Bachelors in Graphic Design in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

2.6

English requirements

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IELTS

5.5

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98 accuracy using real exam data
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Other requirements

General requirements

For admission to SDSU, we look for one of the following academic achievements:

An ACT composite score or ACT superscore of 18 or SAT Math and Reading/Writing subscore total of 970 or
Level 3 or higher on Math and English Language Arts Smarter Balance Assessment or
A high school cumulative GPA of 2.6 or higher or
A ranking in the top 60 percent of graduating class.

Students should also complete the following core courses with a “C” average or above:

4 years of English (or ACT English subscore of 18 or above).
3 years of advanced math—Algebra I and higher (or ACT math subscore of 20).
3 years of laboratory science (or ACT science reasoning subscore of 17).
3 years of social science (or ACT reading subscore of 17).
1 year of fine arts (or AP Fine Arts score of 3 or above) Includes vocal, instrumental and studio arts.

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

11610 USD / year

≈ 11610 USD / year
Out-of-State

11610 USD / year

≈ 11610 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

8010 USD / year

≈ 8010 USD / year

Additional Details

Minnesota Resident: $312.25 per credit.

Living costs

Brookings

United States

1085 - 1888 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 Graphic 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

Additional Details

Living costs

Brookings

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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