Villa students graduate with a strong and differentiated portfolio – helping them find gainful employment right here in Western New York.
See the benefits.
With the support and guidance of our expert faculty, Villa Maria’s graphic design students will master the basics of graphic design and then work on perfecting the skills that set them apart. Villa’s graphic design students consistently win significant industry awards, like ADDYs, portfolio reviews, scholarship competitions and more.
Strong Fundamentals
Our Graphic Design program incorporates a proven foundational focus through practical application of the principles and elements of design and color theory. Industry-specific skills and conceptual problem solving are acquired through studies in design fundamentals, typography, digital imaging and visual communications with attention to career-ready technology and employment preparedness. The program also infuses early exposure to multimedia and publication design advancing to advertising, interactive, motion and web design.
Learn from Professionals
All our courses are taught by well-regarded industry professionals with relevant, real-world experience using the techniques, technology, and connections you’ll actually need in the workplace. Our faculty and students also earn multiple industry awards annually from AAF Buffalo and Columbia Scholastic Press Association.
Flexible Curriculum
With a two-plus-two model, students can choose an AAS degree, BFA degree, or both. The Associate of Applied Science curriculum is embedded into the Bachelor of Fine Arts program. This option offers students a seamless transition into the BFA following successful completion of the Associate degree.
See for yourself.
Graphic designers belong at Villa. Graphic design isn’t about knowing the right answer, it’s about creating the best one. And sometimes that means taking creative risks to get there. At Villa, you’ll unleash your curiosities to become a dynamic visual thinker and problem-solver. Vikings take home awards at the local advertising show annually and also benefit from one of the highest job placement rates in the area.
Our Faculty
ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR, GRAPHIC DESIGN, ART DEPARTMENT CHAIR
Robert Grizanti
[email protected]
716.961.1881
The Career Potential
Graphic Design is a universally useful profession in a global marketplace with an ever-increasing demand for highly-trained design professionals. Designers create or strengthen branding and messaging for sole proprietors to global agencies and every studio and in-house department in between. Myriad career opportunities from independent freelance designer to agency creative director can result from a graphic design education. Our BFA program has prepared students for internships and employment at many reputable WNY businesses including White Bicycle, Delaware North, Pegula Sports & Entertainment, Fisher Price, Crowley Webb, Fifteen, Mower, Gelia, and The Martin Group.
The Facilities
Studio spaces and computer labs dedicated to graphic design students feature large-screen Mac computers, classroom inkjet and laser printers, on-campus large format printing, and full access to Adobe Creative Cloud. Drafting tables, hands-on materials, open lab hours, and supply storage space are also available to every student.
The Requirements
You must earn a grade of C or above in all Graphic Design (GRA) courses for successful completion.
Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.) in Graphic Design Curriculum Requirements.
Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.) in Graphic Design Curriculum Requirements.
Student Work
Villa students are always making new pieces that demonstrate their creativity and the ability to apply relevant skills in practical environments.
Brand Campaign • Francesca Bubb • Student Gold Addy & Best of Show 2020
Film Poster • Kelsey Sikora • 1st Place AAF Don Nichols Scholarship Competition 2020
Film Poster • Emily Kaczynski • 1st Place AAF Don Nichols Scholarship Competition 2019 • Student Silver Addy 2020
Branding • Samantha Lonczak • Student Gold Addy 2017
Poster • William Ankarberg • 1st Place AAF Don Nichols Scholarship Competition 2024
Branding • Tanner DeMarco • Student Gold Addy 2024
Poster • Grace Amborski • 1st Place AAF Don Nichols Scholarship Competition 2023
Campaign (Posters Excerpt) • Henny Zack • Student Gold Addy 2024
Packaging • Leah Alles
Poster • Carl Hunley
Print Ad • Rachel Rising • Student Gold Addy 2015
Packaging • Brittney Sikora • Student Gold Addy & Best of Show 2014
Join the family.
There’s a lot of pressure to know what’s next. We’re here to say, it’s OK if you’re still figuring it out. In fact, it’s great. Villa is a place where that kind of continual discovery is prized. Because going to college isn’t about having it all figured out. It’s about inventing who you’re going to become. You’ll see.
