Design

Bachelor of Science
Learn design thinking that's in demand across technology, architecture, city planning, government, the arts, interdisciplinary research, and more.

The design degree is a liberal arts design studies program with a studio orientation, rather than a professional specialization. You will develop creative problem-solving skills and effective visual responses to communication challenges using digital and analog media. And you have the flexibility to choose 30 credits of interdisciplinary coursework, accommodating a second major or minor — or choose to deepen your design education by studying abroad.

Course curriculumStudent outcomesCost of attendance

a Nazareth professor pointing at a computer screen during a design class

Highlights

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Understand design so you can analyze it, communicate visually, guide others, and do research

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Customize your focus with electives in your areas of interest

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Gain understanding of design with regard to cultural context

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Our accreditation ensures that faculty, curriculum, and facilities meet or exceed national standards

an academic setting featuring a woman positioned in front of three computer screens
a person diligently operates a laptop, surrounded by an assortment of vibrant color swatches
a cluster of individuals seated at computer stations

Career Paths

  • Design consultant
  • Exhibit designer
  • Graphic designer
  • Illustrator
  • Production artist
  • Publication designer
Experiential Learning
Employers
  • Buffalo Business First
  • CGI Communications
  • Devara
  • Ear-Q Group
  • Geva Theatre Center
  • Mason Selkowitz Marketing
  • Memorial Art Gallery
  • Paychex
  • Pavilion Gift Company
  • Pinckney Hugo Group
  • Rochester Software Associates

99%

of new Nazareth grads are employed or in grad school within six months of graduation

1,631

high-impact experiential learning experiences completed by the undergraduate class of 2024

$4,000

Our SPARK Grant provides up to $4,000 for you to pursue internships, research, and study abroad. SPARK details »

Inside Nazareth's Art & Design Studios

    Portfolio option

    A portfolio is not required for admission, but we encourage you to schedule a portfolio review to be considered for a scholarship. View portfolio details and register »

    Program Director
    Amanda Riek, alum of BS graphic design degree program, visual communication major, Nazareth College

    Alumni Spotlight

    Amanda Riekstins '16

    "At my job, I'm the graphic designer and I am part of the marketing department, so the skills I learned in classes for my business management minor are useful to me. I'm more aware of how marketing works outside just the visual approach and have a better understanding of how the pieces are going to be used to reach the target market. A B.S. degree offers exposure to a wide variety of topics. You never know where you'll end up working, and since every company has a different focus, it helps to have knowledge of several different subjects. Because Nazareth is a smaller school, I really got to know all of my professors — who prepared me for my career path."