The graphic design minor fosters creative potential and visual acuity. Students learn how to communicate efficiently, solve problems creatively, and design systems, processes, products, and interfaces with users in mind.
Why should I study graphic design?
Design is an essential part of modern business. Employees in many different fields work with design components on a daily basis, because graphic images bring brands and products to life. Students minoring in graphic design gain a comprehensive understanding of the need for images and ways to create them through courses including art history, digital media, typography and upper-level graphic design. The skills learned in these classes are valuable assets that can set you apart in a wide range of professional environments.
What can I do with this degree?
With a graphic design minor, you'll be equipped to create, evaluate, and participate in graphic design initiatives and activities. A graphic design minor pairs well with majors such as business, communication, journalism, or art and positions students to work collaboratively on/with design teams.
What skills will I develop?
- From typography to web design, you’ll gain proficiency in industry-standard software
- An understanding of essential graphic design principles
- The ability to design for real-world projects and scenarios
- The ability to interface effectively with design teams and individuals in a professional setting
You’ll also have the opportunity to participate in the R.E.A.L. Experience—a program specifically designed to help you gain the relevant, hands-on experience employers desire—so that when you graduate, you’ll be as impressive in practice as you are on paper.
What unique experiences or opportunities will I have?
Get involved with Design Club
- Organize and participate in Bethel's twice-annual poster sale
- Attend local design lectures with the club
- Participate in professional and portfolio development activities
Gain internship experience
The Twin Cities area boasts numerous design shops, agencies, start-ups, and in-house design opportunities—allowing students to gain essential experiences outside the classroom. Recently, graphic design students have conducted internships with area design groups, publishing houses, in-house teams, and nonprofits including:
- Minnesota Adult and Teen Challenge
- Urban Ventures
Benefit from cross-departmental collaboration
Successful graphic design work relies on collaboration, which is why we encourage students from any discipline to consider a graphic design minor and also seek out opportunities for graphic design students and classes to partner with other academic departments and real-world businesses. These efforts have resulted in major successes for our students on a professional level. Most recently, students who participated in the 2017 journalism and design J-Term trip Textura used their experiences and varying skillsets to publish a magazine, which won two national awards from the University & College Designers Association as well as an Associated Collegiate Press national title of Best Feature Magazine.
11:1
art majors to faculty ratio
Honors awarded to our alums include a Guggenheim Fellowship, Bush and McKnight Foundation Fellowships, and a Louis Comfort Tiffany Award.
Recent News
Duct tape and Taco Bell
January 10, 2019 | 1:30 p.m.
The Top Stories from 2018
December 31, 2018 | 8 a.m.
Why We Teach
September 06, 2018 | 2 p.m.
Professor of Art Honored with Seventh University Professor Title
July 23, 2018 | Noon
Upcoming Events
FEB 6 2019
"Panic! at the Studio" Senior Art & Design Student Exhibition
8 a.m. Johnson Gallery
Bethel University's graduating art and design students exhibit their capstone work in "Panic! At the Studio." The two group shows present a range of themes and ideas rendered in design, drawing, painting and video.
FEB 6 2019
Senior Thesis Exhibition Opening Reception #1
4 p.m. Johnson Gallery
Bethel Art & Design graduating seniors, Alyssa Norby, Anna Hultgren, Grace Skaggs, Lizzy Hankerson and Megan Olson will open their group exhibition with a reception.
FEB 7 2019
Flatlander - Belonging to the Land
5 p.m. Olson Gallery
Featuring prints and an installation by John Hitchcock, this exhibition explores the intersection between cultures through the land, language, and the visual symbols of the Great Plains-the epicenter for Plains tribal culture.
FEB 7 2019
Artist Talk and Opening Reception: John Hitchcock
6 p.m. Eastlund Room
Join artist John Hitchcock as he discusses his body of work, "Flatlander -- Belonging to the Land."
