Marymount University

What you'll study

This programme blends a liberal arts foundation with hands-on studio courses and technical instruction in visual communication. Core study areas include:

• Design fundamentals: principles of design, colour theory, composition and visual literacy.
• Typography and branding: type systems, brand identity and logo development for print and digital contexts.
• Digital production: image editing, vector graphics, layout software, web design basics (HTML/CSS concepts) and responsive design considerations.
• Motion and interactive media: introduction to motion graphics, animation and interactive prototypes.
• Print and prepress: production workflows, colour management, file preparation and vendor communication for professional printing.
• Portfolio and capstone: sustained design projects that culminate in a professional portfolio and a senior capstone exhibition or practicum.
• Professional practice: project management, client communication, legal and ethical issues in design, and entrepreneurship.

Courses are delivered through studio labs, seminars and project-based classes. Students typically engage in collaborative projects, critiques and internship placements to connect classroom learning with real-world practice.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a secondary school completion certificate or equivalent. Admission decisions take into account academic records, a personal statement and evidence of creative aptitude. Many applicants submit a portfolio of creative work to strengthen their application; specific portfolio guidelines are provided by the department. Standardised test requirements may be optional or part of the wider institutional policy; international applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency in line with university requirements. Transfer applicants should submit college transcripts and any course descriptions for transfer credit evaluation.

Career prospects

Graduates pursue a wide range of careers across design, media and communications. Typical roles include:

• Graphic designer for agencies, in-house teams or freelance practice
• Web and digital designer, including UX/UI roles at entry level
• Art director or senior designer in advertising and marketing
• Production and prepress specialist within print and packaging industries
• Motion graphics artist and multimedia producer
• Brand or communications coordinator in corporate, nonprofit or cultural organisations

The programme’s emphasis on practical skills, portfolio development and internship experience helps graduates enter the job market with demonstrable work and professional contacts. Alumni also continue into postgraduate study in design, communication or related fields.

Why study at Marymount University

Marymount offers a small-campus learning environment with close faculty mentorship and a balance of liberal arts and vocational training. The university’s location in the Washington, D.C. region provides access to a diverse professional network of design firms, cultural institutions and agencies for internships and industry partnerships. Students benefit from studio facilities, software resources used in the field and career services that aid with portfolio reviews, internship placement and job search preparation. The programme emphasises experiential learning and real-world projects to prepare graduates for contemporary communication careers.