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Graphic Design Major

Bachelor of Arts

With a graphic design major, you’ll learn how to make information accessible and solve real-world problems through strategic visual communications.

Happy students collaborating and enjoying their work in a vibrant classroom.
Become who you’re meant to be. While earning a B.A. in Graphic Design, you’ll gain a strong studio arts foundation in design skill, theory, and process, learning to solve real-world problems through visual communication. You’ll become equipped to serve as a creative problem solver and talented artist, bringing brands and products to life across a variety of industries.

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Why study graphic design at Bethel?

Here, you’ll find a Christ-centered learning community where you belong. Your learning will center in the Department of Art and Design, where you’ll learn from professors who get to know you personally and invest in your success. You’ll experience:

  • Faith-fueled learning
    You’ll learn to use your God-given talents to go into the world and serve with purpose, whether that means making your impact in creative industries or embarking on your own artistic endeavors.

  • A versatile curriculum
    Develop hands-on skills across a variety of mediums, from painting and drawing to graphic design and sculpture.

  • Personalized mentorship
    Collaborate closely with experienced artists and faculty members to receive personalized guidance and feedback, enhancing your skills and fostering artistic growth.

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Ceramic artworks displayed on pedestals in an art gallery.
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Students painting ceramics in a pottery studio.

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Interested in learning more about Bethel's graphic design major?

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Connect with a counselor

They’ll answer your questions, connect you with professors, and help you find the right time to visit campus. They’ll be there every step of the way to help make applying to Bethel as smooth as possible.

Find your counselor

Courses and skills

What skills will I develop?

By majoring in graphic design, you’ll develop the skills to be a well-rounded person, not just a well-rounded student.

Lively classroom with students and professor discussing graphic design projects.

Graphic design essentials

From typography to web design, you’ll gain proficiency in industry-standard software and in the essential principles of graphic design.

Professional practices

You’ll learn how to develop a polished portfolio as you develop a strong body of work.

Creative problem solving

Explore innovative approaches to artistic challenges, fostering originality and adaptability.

Communication skills

Effectively convey ideas and emotions through visual mediums, engage in conversations with artists, and form a personal style and vision for your work.

Build a professional portfolio

Develop the professional skills needed to create a polished portfolio and cultivate an original body of work that showcases your unique talents and creativity.

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Academic plans

Map out your time at Bethel—from day one to your diploma. Your course schedule is designed to help you grow, gain skills, and become who you’re meant to be.

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Learning opportunities

What experiences will I have?

Hands-on learning is at the core of all Bethel majors. That means you’ll find numerous opportunities to get involved, study abroad, apply what you’ve learned, and gain. And Bethel’s size and vibrant community will allow you to pursue ways to get involved right away.

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Real-world experiences

Showcase your work in exhibitions, participate in internships, and engage in collaborative projects locally and globally. You’ll be able to showcase your artwork in campus galleries, local art shows, and community events, providing you with valuable experience in presenting to diverse audiences and receiving feedback.

Professional immersion

Engage in studio visits with local designers and design firms, participate in conversations, and receive critiques from artists and designers at various levels, broadening your perspectives and connections within the industry.

Study abroad

You’ll be able to study around the world through trips over a full semester, January session, spring break, and summer. One great example is Textura, a collaborative project trip where you’ll research, write, and photograph for an award-winning magazine. You have the chance to study art abroad in diverse locations, experiencing and learning from new cultures and artistic traditions.

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Real-world impact

What can I do with a graphic design degree?

With a graphic design degree, you’ll gain strong skills in a versatile discipline that can lead you to many different fields.

Corporate communication

You'll be equipped to craft compelling visual content for corporate communication and marketing, ensuring brand messages are clear, consistent, and impactful.

Editorial design and publishing

Pursue careers in editorial design and publishing, where you'll create visually engaging layouts for magazines, books, and digital publications.

Advertising and branding

Join advertising agencies or branding firms, developing creative strategies and visual identities that captivate audiences and elevate brands.

Diverse career paths

You'll be prepared to make an impact in unique roles—freelance designer, art director, web designer, user interface designer, user experience designer, production designer, motion graphic designer, educator, and museum curator.

Education

Share your knowledge and expertise with aspiring artists and designers as a teacher. You can pursue a second major to teach, or earn graduate degrees in teaching.

Medical illustration

Specialize in medical illustration, using your graphic design expertise to create detailed and accurate visuals for educational and professional medical use.

Diverse career paths

You'll be prepared to make an impact in unique roles—freelance designer, art director, web designer, user interface designer, user experience designer, production designer, motion graphic designer, educator, and museum curator.

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Start your journey

Explore Bethel for yourself

Visiting campus is the best way to learn about Bethel and our majors. As you try out academic and campus life at Bethel, you can attend a class, chat with students, meet professors and coaches, tour campus, and get a taste of life in our program.

Schedule a visit

Faculty mentors

Meet your professors

You’ll learn alongside faculty who are distinguished scholars and faithful Christians. They’ll know you by name and invest in your success.

Department of Art & Design


Location

Clauson Center (CC) 206

Contact

Amanda Hamilton

Jeffrey Wetzig

Amanda Hamilton

Amanda Hamilton

Professor of Art and Department Chair

Bio >

Jeffrey Wetzig

Jeffrey Wetzig

Professor of Art and Department Chair

Bio >

Jessica Henderson

Jessica Henderson

Professor of Design

Bio >

Kenneth Steinbach

Kenneth Steinbach

University Professor of Art

Bio >

Lex Thompson

Lex Thompson

Professor of Art

Bio >

Michelle Westmark Wingard

Michelle Westmark Wingard

Professor of Art and Gallery Director

Bio >

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Jon Henderson

Adjunct Instructor of Art and Design

Bio >

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Evelyn Kim

Adjunct Instructor of Art and Design

Bio >

Elizabeth Roddy

Elizabeth Roddy

Adjunct Instructor of Art and Design

Bio >

Laura Wennstrom

Laura Wennstrom

Adjunct Assistant Professor of Art

Bio >

Kirk Freeman

Kirk Freeman

Professor of Art Emeritus

Bio >

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Dale Johnson

Professor of Art Emeritus

Bio >

George Robinson

George Robinson

Professor of Art Emeritus

Bio >

Wayne Roosa

Wayne Roosa

University Professor of Art History Emeritus

Bio >

6

exhibits each year featured in our 2 on-campus galleries

175+

students take art + design classes each semester

Student Support

Your support team

At Bethel, you’ll experience a community where you belong. And that means you’ll be able to access numerous tools for your academic success—tutoring, mentors, study help, and more.

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Career coaching and preparation

A dedicated team is here to empower you to lead a purposeful life. Career coaches will help you build a resume, pursue internships and jobs, and provide support at every step of the way.

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Academic advising

No matter your goals, you’ll find support from your advisor. They’ll help you plan your courses and will provide support as you complete your degree and start a successful career.

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Tutoring and academic support

The Academic Enrichment and Support Center (AESC) will be your first stop for academic support. You’ll find help in building study skills, academic counseling, and more.

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Faith formation

As you develop your faith, you’ll have support from our Campus Ministries team. From Chapel to Bible studies, you’ll have numerous opportunities to explore and grow in your faith.

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Accessible education

Tuition and financial aid

We want you to understand from the beginning what a Bethel education costs. That’s why we made it simple. Beginning in the 2025-26 academic year, tuition for the College of Arts & Sciences will be $25,990—down from $44,050. This more accurately reflects what you can expect to pay, empowering you to make informed decisions and become who you're meant to be.

Estimate your cost today

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Become A Bethel Student

Apply now

You belong at Bethel. If you're ready to see who you could become, start your free application today.

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Find your fit

Explore related programs

Bethel’s small size, strong community, and liberal arts focus allows you to personalize your education by adding additional majors or minors. In fact, about 30% of students double major—and many pursue degrees in vastly different disciplines.

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Bachelor of Arts

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Journalism Major

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Bachelor of Fine Arts

Bachelor of Fine Arts

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Explore the full lists:

Majors and minors Preprofessional programs Endorsements