Oklahoma State University

oklahoma-state-universityOklahoma State University Graphic Design Degree Programs

Oklahoma State University appears in our ranking of 21 Affordable Master’s Degrees in Marketing and Advertising.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, positions for graphic designers are expected to grow by three percent over the next ten years and the average salary for the positions is $50,370 per year. Most positions require at least a bachelor’s degree. Oklahoma State University offers several degree programs designed to prepare individuals for careers in this growing field.

The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design provides students with an understanding of design principles, technical processes and conceptual ideas in a wide range of design media. Students gain an understanding of what constitutes effective design. They have 24-hour access to cutting edge design studios and computer lab spaces. Courses required include:

  • Advanced Drawing
  • Alternative Photography
  • Art History Survey I & II
  • Ceramics I & II
  • Digital Imaging
  • Drawing I & II
  • Graphic Design I
  • Illustration I & II
  • Interaction Design I
  • Introduction to Photography for Non-Majors
  • Jewelry and Metals I & II
  • Life Drawing
  • Motion Design I
  • New Genres in Studio Art
  • Oil Painting I & II
  • Photography I & II
  • Printmaking I & II
  • Public and Installation Art
  • Sculpture I
  • Studio Art Digital Survey
  • Typography I & II
  • Visual Thinking: Form and Space
  • Visual Thinking: Image and Surface
  • Watercolor I & II

The Master of Fine Arts in Graphic Design specializes in a combination of interaction design, motion design, and visual communication. Interaction design and motion design are the most rapidly expanding areas in the field of graphic design. The program requires 60 credit hours. Interaction design offers a diverse range of research areas to explore through graphic design. Students develop an understanding of how graphic design interacts with humans and the ever-shifting role of participants. Students gain an understanding of design strategies used in interface design and development. Motion design brings the function and principles of graphic design and visual craft to sequential media. Students gain an understanding of animated typography, graphic elements, video in film and television and more. Visual communication blends an interdisciplinary perspective into visual media. Emphasis is placed on innovative approaches to the communication of ideas and information within the spectrum of existing and speculative environments. Students gain an understanding of the applications of interdisciplinary visual communication that includes branding, information design, navigation, media design, and other realms.

About Oklahoma State University

The Oklahoma Territorial Agricultural and Mechanical College was established in 1890 as a land-grant institution in Payne County. Once Oklahoma became a state, the name of the school changed to Oklahoma Agricultural and Mechanical College. Initially, classes were held in various churches around Stillwater until the first building on campus, Old Main, was dedicated in 1894.

By the start of World War II, the school was known as Oklahoma A&M and it was one of six schools selected by the US Navy to offer primary education in electronics training. Starting in 1942, a new group of Navy students arrived each month, remaining on campus for three months for electrical engineering study. The program ended in 1945 after serving 7,000 students.

The school became Oklahoma State University in 1957. Today, there are more than 35,000 students enrolled.

Oklahoma State University Accreditation Details

Oklahoma State University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Accreditation indicates that the University has the resources to meet its stated goals and objectives. Periodically, the school undergoes periodic review to confirm they continue to offer the highest level of education and they agree to address any areas that need improvement. In addition, specific programs are accredited by the following organizations:

  • ABET
  • Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics
  • Accrediting Council on Education in Journalism and Mass Communications
  • American Academy of Forensic Sciences
  • American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy
  • American Osteopathic Association
  • American Psychological Association
  • American Society of Landscape Architects
  • American Speech-Language-Hearing Association
  • American Veterinary Medical Association
  • Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
  • Aviation Accreditation Board International
  • Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs
  • Council for Interior Design Accreditation
  • National Association of Schools of Music
  • National Association of Schools of Theatre
  • National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education
  • National Recreation and Park Association
  • Society of American Foresters

Oklahoma State University Application Requirements

Applicants who wish to enter the Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Arts must provide official high school transcripts as well as official ACT or SAT scores. An essay and documentation of leadership, as well as community involvement, must also be provided. Applicants who have earned credits after high school graduation must provide official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended. If they have earned more than 24 credits, they do not need to provide high school transcripts or test scores. They must have a cumulative GPA of 2.25 or higher.

Applicants to the Master of Fine Arts in Graphic Design must hold a bachelor’s degree or higher and must submit official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended. They must submit a portfolio and resume as well as a statement of purpose. Three letters of recommendation must also be submitted.

Oklahoma State University Tuition and Financial Aid

Tuition for the Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Arts is $164.75 per credit hour and $635.50 for non-residents. Tuition for the Master of Fine Arts in Graphic Arts is $209.70 for residents and $825.05 for non-residents.

Financial aid is available and students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) in order to qualify. The FAFSA must be renewed on an annual basis. Undergraduate students may be offered grants, scholarships, and loans to cover the cost of tuition. If they attend on campus, they may also be offered work-study programs. Graduate students may be offered grants, scholarships or loans as well while those attending on campus may be offered fellowships or assistantships.

Oklahoma State University offers graphic arts programs that are among some of the best in the country and is known as a leader in research, inclusivity and a focus on serving the community.