Graphic Design Minor
The graphic design minor teaches students how to communicate efficiently, problem solve creatively, and design systems, processes, products, and interfaces with human 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 and 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?
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 and 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.
Honors awarded to our alums include a Guggenheim Fellowship, Bush and McKnight Foundation Fellowships, and a Louis Comfort Tiffany Award.
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I transferred to Bethel and just fell in love. My professors had such a significant impact on my development as a young, budding artist. They came alongside me at the right time in my life and didn’t ease up until I got into the best graduate school in the country.
Chris Larson '91Associate Professor of Sculpture, University of Minnesota
Art professors go above and beyond for students open to challenge as they pursue their art careers. Many Bethel alums are still active in the art world and have successful careers. We've developed a growing, active national alumni network.
Allison Peller '08Current job: Curator, First Things Gallery, New York City
Bethel University's Department of Art and Design not only set me up for success in my future career, it also acted as a catalyst to develop intentional community I can participate in the rest of my life.
Eva Sedjo '16Current job: Behavior Health Specialist at Timberline Knolls Residential Treatment Center
After graduation I interned at the Minnesota Center for Book Arts, which turned into a job. I also had the opportunity to show in Vienna, Austria, because of an invitation from a professor.
Sarah Lee '12Current job: Artist, Coordinator at Minnesota Center for Book Arts
The Art Department at Bethel was an incredibly formative place for me. You'll find kind and genuinely caring experts who will propel you forward in your artistic, spiritual, and professional journey and provide a unique, personalized experience.
Elise Valley '10Current job: Pre-K Through Grade 12 Art Teacher, Legacy Christian Academy
