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.
Top 10 best Christian college visual arts program
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pieces in Bethel's permanent art collection
Recent News
The Art of Reinvention
November 15, 2019 | 1 p.m.
Sculpture Class Creates Art Piece for St. Matthew's Episcopal Church
September 12, 2019 | 2 p.m.
Why We Teach: Leaving a Living Legacy
August 23, 2019 | 11 a.m.
"We're Still on The Raft"
July 30, 2019 | 8:10 a.m.
Upcoming Events
FEB 7 2020
By Buy Bye! Senior Thesis Exhibition
8 a.m. Johnson Gallery
Bethel University's graduating art and design students exhibit their capstone work in "By Buy Bye!" The two group shows present a range of themes and ideas rendered in augmented reality, design, mixed media, painting, sculpture, and videography.
FEB 10 2020
Corita Kent: There Should Be New Rules Next Week
8 a.m. Olson Gallery
Corita Kent was an artist, educator, and advocate for social justice who worked primarily in serigraphy in the 1950s-70s.
MAR 5 2020
8 a.m. Johnson Gallery
Sabbatical show for Department of Art & Design faculty, Lex Thompson.
MAR 5 2020
Artist Talk and Opening Reception: Lex Thompson
6 p.m. Eastlund Room
Sabbatical show for Department of Art & Design faculty, Lex Thompson.
