BFA Graphic Design at George Washington University

Programme overview

In the bachelor of fine arts (BFA) in graphic design program, students learn to solve problems with persuasive, visual communication and develop their vision under the mentorship of George Washington University's acclaimed graphic design faculty. The program helps students develop and execute brand strategies in diverse media formats, including print, web, motion, and mobile devices. They complete the program with a strong understanding of concept ideation, design processes and methods, visual communication strategies, messaging, wireframing, design development, and production workflow.

Faculty: Columbian College of Arts and Sciences | Department: Corcoran School of the Arts and Design | Location: Washington, DC, United States

What you will study

The general requirements stated under Columbian College of Arts and Sciences, Undergraduate Programs. 78 credits in program-specific courses, including 57 credits in required courses and 21 credits in elective courses. 12 credits in advanced CGD elective courses at the 3000 or 4000 level. 9 credits in elective courses from any art or design studio area (CGD, CIXD, CPJ, and CSA). Students should consult their advisor for a sample program of study.

Career pathways

Graphic design students also have opportunities to participate in real-world tasks through coursework and special projects. Program graduates pursue employment in a variety of unique career paths and have obtained full-time positions at established companies such as Apple, Harper's Bazaar, National Geographic, the Smithsonian Institution, the Daily Beast, and Discovery Communications.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

University/college-level admission (applies to all majors): For information about the admission process, including deadlines, visit the Office of Undergraduate Admissions website. Applications can be submitted via the Common Application. For questions visit undergraduate.admissions.gwu.edu/contact-us.

USD 72,000 a year (2026-27). Full-time main campus undergraduate tuition for students entering in 2026-27 in the Columbian College of Arts and Sciences, School of Business, Elliott School, Milken Institute School of Public Health or School of Engineering and Applied Science (12-18 cr Source

First-year students enter in the fall semester; transfer applications are accepted for fall and spring admission.

Early Decision I deadline is November 1 and Early Decision II is January 5 (both binding); the Regular Decision deadline is January 5. Applications use the Common Application. Transfer applications are due April 15 for fall and October 1 for spring. Testing is optional (SAT or ACT), except for BA/MD, homeschooled and narrative-evaluation applicants. BFA applicants (except Interior Architecture) submit a portfolio of 10 to 15 works through SlideRoom. The application fee is $80.

International applicants whose first language is not English submit TOEFL (minimum 90), IELTS (minimum 6.5) or PTE Academic scores.

Apply through the official page: https://undergraduate.admissions.gwu.edu/

Explore more study programmes

Arts & Humanities