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
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.
0 external exhibitions given to students since 2014
0 exhibits each year featured in our 2 on-campus galleries
Recent News
Art Students Engage Bethel Community with Evocative Portable Monument Sculpture
March 07, 2018 | 4:30 p.m.
New Digital Humanities Major Emphasizes Interdisciplinary Education
December 06, 2017 | 3:30 p.m.
Student Study Abroad Magazine Claims 3 National Awards
November 30, 2017 | 10:45 a.m.
Upcoming Events
MAY 7 2018
Johnson Gallery on Level 2 of Clauson Center
Annual juried student art exhibiton in the Johnson Gallery
MAY 7 2018
Raspberry Monday Opening Reception and Awards Ceremony
7 p.m. Johnson Gallery on Level 2 of Clauson Center (CC)
Raspberry Monday is an annual juried student art exhibition in the Johnson Gallery.
MAY 9 2018
Raspberry Monday Jurors Talk with Jennie Ekstrand and Patrick Gantert of Sadie Halie Projects
4 p.m. Johnson Gallery on Level 2 of Clauson Center (CC)
Jurors will discuss the selection process of Raspberry Monday.
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
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
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
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
