BS in Graphic Design & Visual Communication
At a Glance
Program
Studios, Technology & Creative Resources
The Graphic Design & Visual Communication program combines studio-based learning with access to contemporary creative technologies, collaborative workspaces and interdisciplinary resources across the university.
You will work in studio environments designed to support experimentation, critique, collaboration and hands-on making across both physical and digital media. Courses emphasize process as much as final outcomes, encouraging you to sketch, prototype, iterate, test and refine ideas throughout the design process.
- Laser Cutters
- 3D Printers
- Surface Imaging (soft and hard surface printing)
- Large format ink jet printers
- Studio photography equipment
- Binding machines
- Large format paper cutters
- Mac Lab
- Cintiq Tablets
- Spray booth
Recommended Technology
Required
Computer
In line with industry practice, the program recommends the Apple, MacBook Pro laptop. In line with industry practice, the program recommends the Apple, MacBook Pro laptop. Base model recommendations for 2026 include:
- 14-inch: standard base model
Apple M3 chip or newer
Memory: 18GB or higher
Storage minimum: 512GB
- 16-inch: standard base model
Apple M3 chip or newer
Memory: 18GB or higher
Storage minimum: 512GB
You are also highly encouraged to purchase AppleCare.
Recommended but not required
Monitor
24-inch monitor for home use
Printer
(recommended sophomore year, but not required)
13-inch wide-format inkjet printer (Epson Expression Photo HD XP-15000 Wide-format Printer or comparable). The VCD program has a print center with wide format ink jet printing available to all majors.
Software/Labs
All students enrolled at Thomas Jefferson University receive access to the entire Adobe Creative Cloud collection using their campus key login on their personal computers. The program has computer labs available for students, however seats are limited, and courses are routinely taught in these spaces.
Digital/Cloud Storage
A critical part of being a designer is proper file management and regular file backup. We highly recommend using a cloud based storage system in case something should happen to your hardware/computer. Popular storage platforms include Google Drive, iCloud, Adobe Cloud, Dropbox, Box, and Microsoft One Drive.
iPad/Tablet
While an iPad or tablet is a great tool for design students (image making, digital product development, animations, etc), it is not required. The program also has a few iPads that can be checked out and the studios have 24" Cintiq Pros.
Digital Camera + Photo Studio
A digital camera is not required, but many students prefer to have their own. Students have access to studio photography equipment, including lights, tripods, and backdrops.