Fri,
05/10/2024 – 03:23pm | By: Ivonne Kawas
The University of Southern Mississippi’s (USM) Graphic Design Program has been recognized
among the Top Design Schools in the Nation by Graphic Design USA (GDUSA) magazine: a ranking coveted by schools
and programs of all sizes.
GDUSA is considered an authority in the graphic design industry with a trajectory
spanning over 60 years. The selection is based on objective and subjective factors, focusing
on personal, professional, and societal growth.
Dr. Chris Winstead, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, praises the graphic
design program for being recognized for the third year in a row.
“This recognition highlights the quality of the graphic design education that our
faculty are providing at Southern Miss, and also is a testament to the caliber of
work that our students consistently produce,” said Winstead. “We know that when they
graduate, they will be ready for the workplace and ready to make an impact.”
Jacob Cotton, associate professor of design, echoes Dr. Winstead’s sentiments as Southern
Miss continues setting the standard for excellence in design education.
“The Graphic Design Program has a storied tradition of success, and every spring,
we see our students graduate and move on to some of the best agencies in the country,”
said Cotton. “This recognition is a testament to that success and to the dedication,
creativity, and innovation of our program’s faculty, staff, and students. It’s a proud
moment for all of us as we continue setting the standard for excellence in design
education and making a positive impact in the industry.”
John Lawler, associate professor and graphic design area coordinator, expresses pride
in the USM program.
“We are incredibly proud of our graphic design program here at Southern Miss,” said
Lawler. “As faculty, we strive to foster a culture that encourages exploration of
both form and function throughout all levels of the program. Our students really embrace
the rigor of the program with a sense of pride and a determination to be the best.
Ultimately, the students are who make this program successful. I’m continuously amazed
by the level of professionalism and talent they display on a daily basis.”
What makes the program stand out? At the core of its BFA curriculum lies a dedication
to teaching visual literacy; developing conceptual, aesthetic, and visual skills;
and becoming proficient with creative problem-solving. But education at Southern Miss
goes beyond the classroom. It offers experiential learning opportunities, where students
get to work on real-world projects and can join one of its two student-led agencies:
Rise Creative and SPVA Design and Marketing team.
From participating in design conferences to portfolio reviews and competitions, students
are not just attending USM to learn, but to actively participate in shaping their
own future in design.
Learn more about the USM Art and Design program.
