Florida State University

What you'll study

This programme combines foundation studios, theory and technology to give a broad grounding in design and applied arts. Early study emphasises drawing, 2D and 3D design principles, colour, materials and methods. Core subjects typically include typography and visual communication, digital imaging and vector production, interaction and user-centred design, materials and fabrication, design history and contemporary theory, and professional practice.

• Foundation studios: observational drawing, design thinking, colour and composition.
• Visual communication: typography, brand identity, editorial and packaging design.
• Digital skills: image editing, vector illustration, motion graphics and web fundamentals.
• Material and fabrication: model making, prototyping, materials for product and environmental design.
• User-centred design and research: human-centred design methods, usability testing and interaction design.
• Professional practice and portfolio: project management, client briefs, entrepreneurship and capstone project or senior exhibition.

Students can expect studio critiques, collaborative projects, and opportunities to work with the university’s digital labs and fabrication equipment. Electives and cross-disciplinary courses allow students to tailor the degree towards graphic design, product/industrial design, exhibition/environmental design or new media.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a secondary-school qualification equivalent to Florida State University’s undergraduate admissions standards. Admission is based on a combination of academic records and creative potential. Applicants are typically required to submit a portfolio of recent work that demonstrates observational ability, creative thinking and technical skill; guidelines and sample requirements are provided by the department.

• Academic record: competitive secondary qualifications appropriate for undergraduate study.
• Portfolio: a selection of studio work, sketches, project documentation and digital files showing range and process.
• English language: proof of proficiency where applicable, in line with university regulations for non-native speakers.
• Additional materials: a personal statement or statement of intent explaining design interests and goals may be requested.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a wide range of creative and applied roles. The degree develops practical skills and a professional portfolio valued by employers in multiple sectors.

• Graphic designer, brand and communication designer
• UX/UI and interaction designer
• Product or industrial designer and prototyping specialist
• Exhibition and environmental designer, set and display design
• Design researcher, design strategist and creative consultant
• Freelance designer, studio founder or creative director, and progression to postgraduate study in specialised design fields

Why study at Florida State University

Florida State University’s design and art programmes are housed within a comprehensive arts college that offers dedicated studio spaces, digital labs, and fabrication workshops. Students benefit from regular critiques, close faculty mentoring and collaborative projects with other disciplines such as theatre design, architecture-adjacent courses and new media. Located in Tallahassee, the university maintains cultural, community and industry connections that support internships and practical experience. The programme emphasises both hands-on making and contemporary design research, helping graduates build professional portfolios and transition into practice or further study.