Art and Art History Department Announces New Graphic Design Concentration

The Art and Art History Department at Ursinus College has announced a new concentration in graphic design within the Art and Art History major. The concentration will offer training in visual literacy and provide distinct professional pathways in the arts in an increasingly image-saturated world.

“We are excited to add a graphic design concentration to our offerings,” Assistant Professor of Art and Art History in Painting and Printmaking David Aipperspach said. “As in our other studio arts courses, students will have opportunities to critically engage with the complex perceptual, social, and media environments that they inhabit — becoming active participants in the visual culture that will influence our future.”

The concentration aims to empower students to analyze their place within the global system of images by examining visual design processes and contemporary and historical modes of image creation, circulation, and information technologies. It also seeks to help students develop knowledge of the prevalence and power of visual communication throughout contemporary cultural production and a broad range of disciplines, including media and entertainment, commerce, politics, health and medicine, the sciences, and more. Additionally, the program will help students discern the pervasive influence of visual power structures and develop an ethical framework for professional practice in visual communication, graphic design, and related fields.

Three new classes will be offered: Graphic Design I, Graphic Design II, and Digital Image-Making. These classes will be available for registration in Spring 2025 and taught by Visiting Professor Jeanne Komp.

“I am thrilled to add graphic design to the vibrant arts community at Ursinus,” Komp said. “Opportunities are abundant as Ursinus continues to encourage students to explore, collaborate, and personalize their education.”

For more information, visit the Art and Art History Department page.