Department of Visual and Performing Arts
The Department of Visual and Performing Arts provides both a solid educational background and a supportive environment for those students who seek professional careers in music or graphic design. It does this while providing courses that ensure all university students have a well-balanced education -- one that includes both the arts and the sciences. The Department offers a Bachelor of Science degree in Graphic Design and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Music.
Mission Statement
The mission of the Graphic Design program is to support ECSU’s liberal arts program by providing a challenging and supportive environment for learning and by providing a solid education to prepare students for opportunities in professional careers and/or graduate school.
The department provides a baccalaureate-level sequence of study that leads to a Bachelor of Science in Graphic Design.
Goals
The goals of the Graphic Design program are to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to pursue career opportunities or graduate study in graphic design and to provide enriching experiences in the visual arts for Elizabeth City State University students, faculty and citizens of the Albemarle region at large.
Objectives
The objectives are as follows:
- to provide a graphic design degree program that:
- prepares students to pursue successful careers in graphic design.
- prepares students for graduate study.
- to serve students who seek an overview of graphic design and art history as part of their general education
- to provide graphic design students with a comprehensive education that establishes a solid foundation in graphic design, art history, and art theory, as well as opportunities to exhibit their work.
- to support the University’s liberal arts program by providing engaging courses in art for students majoring in other fields of study.
- to support the University’s community outreach initiatives by hosting a variety of art exhibitions, guest lecturers, and workshops.
- to provide students with an atmosphere that supports the creative process by providing adequate facilities and equipment, theoretical and practical experience, individualized instruction and thorough advisement.
Admission Requirements
All students seeking to major in graphic design must first gain admission to Elizabeth City State University by applying through the Office of Admissions.
Academic Expectations
Students are required to compile a portfolio and complete an interim exam at the end of their sophomore year to determine if adequate progress is being made. All students are expected to proceed through the required sequence of courses achieving a grade of "C" or better.
Annual Portfolio Review
Students seeking a B.S. in Graphic Design are required to submit a portfolio for review during the Spring semester of their freshman, sophomore and junior year in the program.
Senior Show/Portfolio
Students seeking a B.S. in Graphic Design are required to mount a senior show and assemble a portfolio showcasing work that represents the student’s unique style and demonstrates overall artistic skills and abilities.
Student Internships
The Graphic Design program has an active internship program that provides students with opportunities to work with local businesses and arts organizations.