BFA Design Thesis is the culminating studio experience in the Graphic Design BFA. Students develop an independent, research-driven design project that demonstrates their ability to identify a meaningful area of inquiry, define an audience, develop a design strategy, and translate their research into a cohesive body of work.
BFA Design Thesis is the culminating experience of the BFA in Graphic Design, challenging students to develop an independent, research-driven body of work that connects design inquiry with a meaningful problem or area of investigation. Students move from research and concept development through experimentation, prototyping, critique, and refinement to produce a cohesive final thesis.
The course brings together skills developed throughout the curriculum, including research, concept development, visual communication, branding, typography, UX/UI, emerging media, presentation, and professional practice. Rather than beginning with a predetermined solution, students investigate their subject deeply and allow research, experimentation, and critique to shape the direction of their work.
Students move through an iterative process of research, ideation, experimentation, critique, prototyping, refinement, and presentation. Individual and group critiques challenge students to articulate their ideas, evaluate design decisions, respond to feedback, and continually strengthen both concept and execution.
At this stage of the curriculum, my role shifts from primarily instructor to mentor and facilitator. I work individually with students to challenge assumptions, identify opportunities for further exploration, establish achievable goals, and develop greater confidence in their own design process and decision-making.
BFA Thesis marks an important transition from structured coursework to independent professional practice. Students take increasing ownership of their research, creative direction, process, and outcomes while maintaining expectations for critical thinking, iteration, craft, and professional presentation.
The Fall 2025 projects reflect a wide range of research interests, audiences, design challenges, and creative approaches. Together, they demonstrate not only what students can make, but also their growing ability to research, question, test, explain, and defend their design decisions. An important component of the thesis experience is external professional review. Students present their research, process, and final outcomes to invited design, UX, education, and industry professionals, receiving feedback beyond the classroom and gaining experience articulating and defending their design decisions to professional audiences.
The following projects represent the culmination of each student's semester-long investigation, from initial research and experimentation through prototyping, refinement, and final presentation.
Madeleine investigated how principles from neuroaesthetics could inform the design of a digital mood-boarding experience. Her thesis connected research on visual perception, cognition, and creativity with UX/UI design to explore how an application could better support creative ideation and visual exploration.
Alicia explored how human-centered digital design could support reminiscence therapy for people living with dementia. Her thesis translated research into an accessible application concept designed to facilitate meaningful connections with memories, experiences, and personal histories.
Brooke investigated how typography and visual communication might need to evolve for future human settlements beyond Earth. Her speculative design research considered the functional, environmental, and cultural challenges of developing communication systems for life on Mars.
Viv investigated how graphic design and accessibility principles could improve corporate training materials for people with dyslexia. Her thesis translated research into practical design standards intended to make workplace learning materials more accessible, readable, and inclusive.