The Communication Design Program is one of the largest public programs in the country and considered to be one of the best within the Southwest United States. The goal of the program is to create a stimulating learning environment for students where they can pursue their specific interests within these areas of professional study: graphic design, art direction, and interactive media.<br><br>In addition to the general course work, Communication Design students are encouraged to participate in local, regional, national and international design competitions, serve as an intern to a professional practice, join Communication Design student organizations, and attend visiting professional lectures and exhibitions.<br><br>Courses in Communication Design emphasize conceptual communications following the model of professional practice while seeking to explore innovative new aesthetics. Students seeking the BFA in Communication Design–in addition to their general studies, art foundations, art history, and art electives-engage in a rigorous study within their major. Four specific foundations courses prepare the student for the upper level curriculum with course offerings for the student. The outcome of this curriculum is the preparation of a superior portfolio, with a focus on enabling the student to enter into the professional practice of communication design.<br><br>Courses in typography, art direction, corporate identity, sustainable packaging, brand experience, human centered design, environmental graphics, design research and interactive design prepare the student for professional practice within a designer/client relationship. Students may further their education with independent study courses and professional internships.<br><br>The Communication Design courses are taught in a studio environment, with class sizes limited to approximately 16. The Mitte Complex has Macintosh labs, an open lab for student use, digital color printing availability including RISO, digital still and video camera checkout, and a photography studio and a multidisciplinary innovation lab equipped with laser cutter, CNC router, 3D printer and die cutter.