Graphic Design Schools in Burlington VT

Looking for top Graphic Design Schools in Burlington VT?

Navigating the many options can be tough but finding the right program is crucial for launching a successful career.

This guide highlights the premier schools in Burlington, detailing their unique programs, faculty, and resources to help you choose the perfect fit.

Vermont College of Fine Arts – MFA in Graphic Design

The Vermont College of Fine Arts (VCFA) offers a unique low-residency MFA in Graphic Design program. This program is designed to help you explore and redefine the field of graphic design.

There are two tracks offered:

• Three-Year Track: Ideal if you are aiming for a career change.
• Two-Year Track: Designed for those with a strong foundation in design fundamentals.

Each track emphasizes:

• Design Foundation Skills
• Software Proficiency
• Typography

You will benefit from:

• Personalized Attention: Small student-to-faculty ratio.
• Mentorship: Provided by accomplished designers and educators.
• Inquiry-Based Learning: Encourages critical questions about the social, ethical, historical, and philosophical aspects of design.

Accredited by NECHE, VCFA’s program features a balance between on-campus residency weeks and remote work, offering flexibility to fit your lifestyle.

Graduates leave with:

• Robust Portfolio
• Critical Expertise
• Research Methods

Scholarships and financial aid are available to support your educational journey.

Burlington Technical Center – Design & Illustration Program

The Burlington Technical Center (BTC) Design & Illustration program offers an intensive curriculum led by experienced instructor Ashley Stagner. This is an excellent choice for those looking to build a strong foundation in graphic design.

Key areas covered include:

• Graphic Design Essentials: Using Adobe Creative Cloud software.
• Professional Photography: Developing skills with DSLR cameras.
• Digital Illustration Techniques: Utilizing Wacom Cintiq tablets.

Students will:

• Foster Visual Problem-Solving Skills
• Develop Strong Portfolios: Ideal for further education or career pursuits.
• Engage in Hands-On Experience

Eligibility requirements:

• Portfolio Review
• Completion of Foundational Courses: Such as Art I or its equivalent.

BTC has a track record of success, with students winning prestigious awards and merit scholarships. Additional opportunities include:

• Work-Based Learning
• Gallery Internships
• Dual Enrollment Options: Up to 21 college credits available.

BTC’s emphasis on art, access to advanced tools, and dedicated instruction makes it a compelling choice for aspiring graphic designers.

Champlain College – Graphic Design Program

The Champlain College Graphic Design Program is part of the Division of Communication & Creative Media. It stands out for its comprehensive approach to graphic design education.

Highlights include:

• Experienced Faculty: Offering mentorship in diverse design fields like illustration, painting, motion graphics, and video editing.
• Skill Development: Both in graphic design and visual communication.
• Real-World, Hands-On Projects: Collaborate with local businesses, publications, and authors.

Advanced technologies integral to the program:

• Laser Cut Block Printing
• Animation

The program offers:

• On-Campus Format
• Online Format

With a high graduate employment rate, Champlain College’s program is designed to prepare you for a successful career in the graphic design industry.

Champlain College – Graphic Design & Visual Communication

Champlain College’s Graphic Design & Visual Communication program provides a thorough education in both traditional and digital media.

Key features include:

• Hands-On Curriculum: Proficiency in traditional print and innovative digital technologies.
• Strong Portfolio Development: You will receive critiques from industry professionals to hone your presentation skills and design expertise.
• Accreditation: The program is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD).

Unique aspects:

• Creative Studio Experience: Encourages interdisciplinary collaboration and networking.
• Blend of Practical Business Skills and Technical Design Knowledge: Essential for both freelance and corporate careers.

Champlain’s comprehensive approach ensures you are well-prepared for a diverse range of graphic design careers.

University of Vermont – Studio Art and Graphic Design Program

The University of Vermont (UVM) offers a Studio Art and Graphic Design program that integrates a broad array of artistic disciplines.

Key disciplines included:

• Ceramics
• Painting
• Printmaking
• Photography
• Sculpture
• Digital Art
• Film

While UVM does not offer a dedicated major in Graphic Design, the program provides:

• Fundamental Graphic Design Courses: Integrated within the Studio Art major.

Students benefit from:

• Vast Exhibition Spaces
• Interaction with Renowned Artists
• Integrated Fine Arts Program: Allows exploration across multiple art forms.
• Art History Majors and Minors: Gain valuable experience through internships at notable institutions such as the Fleming Museum and the Smithsonian Institution.

Located in Burlington, a city with a vibrant arts scene, UVM offers a robust educational foundation in various art forms, preparing you for diverse careers in the arts.

By choosing any of these Graphic Design Schools in Burlington VT, you’ll be setting the stage for a promising career in the dynamic field of graphic design. The programs offer different approaches and specializations, allowing you to pick the one most suited to your goals and preferences.

Saint Michael’s College – Art & Design Program

The Saint Michael’s College Art & Design program nurtures your creative problem-solving abilities, critical thinking, and effective communication.

The curriculum covers a wide range of subjects:

• Graphic Design
• Sculpture
• Painting
• Digital Image Making
• Animation

You will benefit from the program’s integration of art history, which provides context and deepens your understanding of your craft. Through expanded graphic design courses, you will learn about:

• Brand Design
• Typography
• Web Design

The program also offers unique opportunities:

• Fairbanks-Paulin and McCarthy Scholarships: These special programs support your creative projects.
• Internships: Work with local artists or partake in study abroad experiences in cities like Paris and Rome.
• Capstone Exhibition: A senior project paired with professional portfolio development guidance preparing you for a successful career.

Saint Michael’s College provides you with a comprehensive education, preparing you for various creative fields and further education opportunities. Continue exploring their program here.

Community College of Vermont – Design & Media Studies Program

The Community College of Vermont (CCV) offers a versatile Design & Media Studies program that marries creativity, communication, and technology. Courses are taught by local community members with relevant industry expertise, ensuring practical insights.

You can opt for certificate programs in areas such as:

• Animation
• Film
• Photography
• Graphic Design
• Digital Marketing

These certificate programs can be applied towards an associate degree, thanks to their stackable nature. This setup allows you to earn industry-recognized credentials progressively. The curriculum was designed with input from Vermont employers and covers essential skills including:

• Visual and Verbal Communication
• Design Software Proficiency
• Professional Portfolio Creation

The program’s short-term options provide valuable skills in a condensed timeframe, making it a practical choice. Alumni like Andrea, who now works as a community liaison at Catamount Arts, highlight the tangible benefits of CCV’s education. Get more information on the program here.

Burlington Technical Center – Design & Illustration Program

The Burlington Technical Center (BTC) Design & Illustration program offers an immersive experience under the guidance of experienced instructor Ashley Stagner. This program is ideal for building a solid foundation in graphic design principles.

Key areas covered in the curriculum include:

• Graphic Design Essentials: Adobe Creative Cloud software is used extensively.
• Professional Photography: Develop your skills with DSLR cameras.
• Digital Illustration Techniques: Utilize Wacom Cintiq tablets for hands-on learning.

BTC emphasizes the development of visual problem-solving abilities and self-expression. Students are prepared to create robust portfolios, suitable for both further education and career beginnings.

Eligibility requirements:

• Portfolio Review
• Completion of Foundational Courses: Such as Art I or its equivalents.

Success in the program is demonstrated by BTC students who have garnered prestigious awards and merit scholarships. Opportunities for work-based learning, gallery internships, and dual enrollment options (with up to 21 college credits) are also available. Dive deeper into the program here.

Choosing the Right Graphic Design School in Burlington VT

When choosing a Graphic Design School in Burlington VT, several factors come into play to ensure you pick the program that best suits your career aspirations:

1. Curriculum: Ensure that the program offers comprehensive coverage of both foundational skills and emerging technologies in graphic design.
2. Faculty: Delve into the instructors’ professional backgrounds and teaching methodologies to understand their expertise and approach.
3. Facilities: Verify that the school provides access to industry-standard tools and software that will be pivotal in your learning process.
4. Career Services: Check if the school offers support services like internships, job placement assistance, and portfolio reviews to aid in your transition from student to professional.
5. Alumni Network: A robust alumni network can be instrumental for networking and job opportunities post-graduation.
6. Accreditation: Opt for programs that are accredited as this ensures the curriculum meets current industry standards.

Incorporate these considerations with your personal preferences regarding campus culture and location. Conducting thorough research and visiting the schools can further clarify the environment and fit, helping you make an informed decision.

Conclusion

Choosing the right Graphic Design School in Burlington VT is a pivotal step in your design career. Each of the schools highlighted offers unique programs, specialized curriculums, and supportive environments to help you build a robust portfolio and achieve your career goals. Explore your options thoroughly and take the next step in advancing your education and entering the dynamic world of graphic design.

Happy studying, and here’s to your bright future in the creative industry!