Design Degree

About the program

The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Design at Missouri Southern State University prepares students to communicate ideas through visual design. Students learn how to organize symbols, words, and images to create effective visual messages for specific audiences.

Through studio-based coursework, students develop skills in both print and digital media while building a professional portfolio. The program emphasizes creative problem-solving, design theory, and professional presentation to prepare students for work in the design field or continued study in graduate programs.

Is the Design Degree Right for You?

The Graphic Design program at Missouri Southern is ideal for creative students who want to use design to communicate ideas and solve visual problems.

This program may be a great fit if you:

Want to work as a designer for a magazine, newspaper, or advertising agency
Are interested in designing logos, branding systems, and visual identities
Enjoy working with digital media, web design, and visual storytelling
Want to freelance or start your own creative business
Plan to pursue graduate study in design or a related field

What you'll learn in the design program

Students in Missouri Southern’s Design program develop both creative and professional design skills while building a strong portfolio of work.

You will learn how to:

Create a cohesive body of advanced graphic design work
Describe the design process using professional art and design terminology
Communicate about your work within social, historical, and artistic contexts
Identify influential contemporary and historical artists and designers
Present yourself and your work professionally to potential employers
Promote and market your design work in exhibitions and professional settings

Careers in Design

Graduates of Missouri Southern’s Design program work in a wide range of creative industries. The degree prepares students for careers in print, digital media, and interactive design.

Common Career Paths Include:

Graphic Designer
Visual Designer
Production Artist
User Experience (UX) Designer
Visual Information Specialist
Art Director
Creative Director

Design graduates may work for advertising agencies, publishers, media companies, marketing departments, or operate their own freelance design businesses.

Curriculum & Courses

The Design program combines foundational art and design courses with advanced studio work and professional portfolio development.

Catalog

Program Format, Location & Schedule

Location: On-campus in Joplin, Missouri
Program Format: In-person studio and lecture courses
Typical Time to Degree: Four years of full-time study
Degree Type: Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA)

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Apply Request Information

Invest in Your Future

Tuition

Learn More

Fund Your Future

Financial Aid

Learn More

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Programs You Might Like

BFA in Studio Art – Focus on traditional and contemporary art practices, including drawing, painting, and sculpture
BA in Visual Art – A broader exploration of artistic disciplines and creative expression
Art Education (Grades K–12) – Prepare to teach art in elementary, middle, or high school settings