Visual Art or Graphic Design, minor

Program Overview

Do you love the visual art of storytelling, be it on camera, canvas, or a cool t-shirt or app? Do you long to combine your passion for business, marketing, engineering, or some alternate industry with the practical creativity of graphic design? No matter your preferred medium, a minor in visual art or graphic design could be the perfect fit for you.

The minor in art at PLNU is designed for students who are looking to complement their major with foundational understanding and practical expertise in visual communication, or who simply desire personal enrichment. You will learn from accomplished professors who actively showcase their own work in notable art museums and galleries or practice in the design industry. Join an inclusive community of artists who consistently challenge one another to improve in their respective crafts.

Orange and purple sunset in San Diego is framed by the iconic Greek Amphitheater on PLNU's campus

Student Profile

Wes Bruce

Wes Bruce’s reputation in the art field has been steadily increasing since he graduated with his degree in art education. At first, he did his own art on the side while serving as a summer camp director in Yosemite and in the education department of the Museum of Contemporary Art.

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Course List

For information about the courses required for the Visual Art or Graphic Design, minor program, view the PLNU Catalog. 

Visual Art Course Information

Graphic Design Course Information

Start Application

Are you ready to take the next step to begin your PLNU journey? Whether you’re a high school senior, college transfer student, or international student, find out what we’re looking for in our applicants and how you can apply.

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Student Support

For most students, the transition into college life is one full of adjustments. There is the excitement of newfound freedoms, but also some uncertainty as you begin to make choices and take responsibility for your own future. 

At PLNU, we’re committed to supporting you — academically, professionally, spiritually, personally — so that you may be successful both in your time as a student and beyond. That’s why we offer a holistic support system that focuses on your unique experiences, particular needs, and personal and professional goals — resulting from our deep concern for you, our student.

With a focus on authentic relationships and personalized attention, our goal is to help transform you so you can follow your calling in your own career and life.

Student Support

Street Painting

The Restorative Power of Street Art

While graffiti is steeped in writing and includes markings of an individual or a group, street art merges together the principles of design and art.

Read More in the Viewpoint Online Magazine 

Career Opportunities

In addition to examining the core elements of art history and either drawing or graphic design, based on your concentration, you will also choose from a vast array of elective credits that focus on your preferred medium of artistic expression. These supplemental skills prove indispensable to a wide variety of careers, increasing your foundational knowledge and practical application of creative endeavors.

A minor in art is a natural complement to many majors. This minor could play a supporting role in many careers within:

  • Museums/Galleries
  • Marketing
  • Publicity
  • Publishing
  • Journalism
  • Education
  • Branding
  • Broadcasting
Channin Fulton smiles while conducting an interview

Student Profile

Channin Fulton

The first time Channin Fulton considered herself an artist was while face painting for a summer job. She had painted a dolphin on a child’s face, after which the child exclaimed that he loved his dolphin and asked Channin, sweetly, if she was an artist. “I suppose I am,” she answered.

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Department Faculty

Get Involved

People Working Together in a Collaborative Environment

Art and Design Internships

Your professional experience is just as important before graduation as after. That's why internships are required for all visual art and graphic design majors.
Ceramic tire track prints in a collage of colors are placed on a wall for a art exhibition

AIGA

Are you looking for a place to discover new emerging design with other passionate creators? The American Institute of Graphic Arts (AIGA) is a design community that supports students with educational and professional opportunities to share your work.
PLNU Student Dialoging with Other Students at Event

Art and Design Events

You don’t have to wait until after you graduate to get connected to the San Diego art and design communities.