Introduced to the College of Arts and Science in Fall 2008, the Interactive Design program builds on the success of the Graphic Design program. What's the difference between the two? Simply put, interactive design is graphic design in motion. The Graphic Design program provides you with a strong education in visual communication, a distinct and marketable skill set and a well-rounded liberal arts general education. Interactive Design program does this too, but specializes in multimedia solutions.
Interactive Design is a conversation with the user, a process created to influence positive emotional responses while encouraging interactivity and feedback. As a student of the Interactive Design program at Maryville, you will learn to apply the art of visual communication to multimedia technology like the Web, mobile devices and computer kiosks.
Program Features
Modern Technology Meets Formal Design
The Interactive Design B.F.A. program will prepare you for a profession where you create or implement interactive media.You will be immersed in modern technologies such as video, animation, 3-D modeling, mobile devices and the Internet, but you will also build a strong foundation in formal design theory and history.
By having a firm grasp on the visual, creative and technological components of interactive media, you'll be ready to apply this expertise to a design job in the graphic design, advertising and marketing professions.
Professional/Career Opportunities
The market demand for interactive designers is growing rapidly. Web-based information and the expansion of digital entertainment including television, movies and made-for-Internet videos requires designers capable of solving visual, technical and organizational challenges. Designers with Web site design and animation experience are especially valuable as interactive media design projects for Web sites, video games, cell phones and other technologies flourish.
As a graduate of the Interactive Design program at Maryville, you will be fully prepared to enter the professional arena and fulfill the shortage of interactive designers in the St. Louis region and beyond. Interactive designers work in marketing and graphic design firms, educational and corporate communications outlets and advertising agencies as Web designers, new media or Flash designers, multimedia specialists, training program designers and interactive learning specialists to name a few.
The AIGA and You
Maryville University currently has the largest American Institute of Graphic Arts (AIGA) student chapter in the state. This national design association serves both Interactive and Graphic Design students. As a student member of AIGA, you will be able to attend lectures, interact with professionals and participate in the annual AIGA St. Louis Student Conference. The network of design alumni and internship partners already in existence is an asset to the Interactive Design students as well.
Degree Offerings and Requirements
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interactive Design
Admission Requirements
After meeting the requirements for general admissions to Maryville University, you may submit a portfolio to be considered for a merit scholarship. We want to see work that demonstrates creative ability, perceptual skills (drawing), basic understanding of two-and three-dimensional design (line, texture, space, color and movement), focus and range of aesthetic interests, craft and technical ability. Portfolio also required for transfer students.
