School and Ranking Info
In Nashville, TN, there are roughly seven schools that offer programs in graphic design; four of these are for-profit schools. The smallest of the public and not-for-profit colleges is an independent art school that offers nationally accredited programs in fine arts, film and design.
- Winner: The Watkins College of Art, Design & Film offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Graphic Design. Key program features include the opportunity to train in state-of-the-art facilities and work with industry professionals.
School Info Chart
| Category | Watkins College of Art, Design & Film |
|---|---|
| Location | Nashville, TN |
| School Type | 4-year; private, not-for-profit |
| Tuition and Fees (2013-2014) | Undergraduate: $19,710* |
| Graphic Design Degree Awards Offered | Bachelor's |
| Graphic Design Degrees Awarded (all levels) in 2013 | 13* |
| Undergraduate Graduation Rate (in 150% of normal degree time) for 2007 entering class | 37%* |
| Noteworthy | The National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD) has approved the college's BFA in Graphic Design program |
Source: *NCES College Navigator
Watkins College of Art, Design & Film
- Facilities include cutting-edge computer labs with Macintosh equipment and software
- Three-credit Visiting Art Directors series provides students with exposure to area professionals
- Optional 3-credit design internship
- School library includes a substantial graphic design book and periodicals collection
The Watkins College of Art, Design & Film enrolls less than 400 students a year and has a low teacher-student ratio of 10:1. It was established in 1885 and offers BFA programs in graphic or interior design, fine art, film and photography. A Bachelor of Arts in Art and specialized certificate programs in film or interior design are also available. Applicants to the graphic design program must submit a portfolio specific to the field of study.
The 120-credit BFA in Graphic Design program allows for concentrations in illustration or Web design. The curriculum includes a 12-credit visual arts core in 2-D, 3-D and 4-D design and drawing, as well as electives in the fine arts. Undergraduates also complete 48 credits of major coursework in computer software, typography and Web development. Unique to the program are the graphic design electives in advertising problems, album cover art and typeface design; students can also explore the relationship between graphic design and social action.
