George Mason University - Art, Design, Visual Technology and New Media Programs Profile

Degrees Offered: B. A., B. F. A. Art and Visual Technology with Concentration in Graphic Design, New Media; B. F. A. Computer Game Design; M. F. A. Art and Visual Technology with Emphasis in New Media; M. A. Graphic Design

Tuition Information:  Undergraduate residents $9,420, nonresidents $27,564; graduate residents $11,490, nonresidents $27,420 for the 2012 – 2013 school year.

Contact Information:
4400 University Drive
Fairfax, VA 22030
703.993.1000
www.gmu.edu/

Scope of Program:

Students in George Mason University's undergraduate Art and Visual Technology program may choose the Graphic Design or New Media emphasis. 

Students in the Art and Visual Technology program's Graphic Design and New Media emphases begin their studies with foundation coursework in studio fundamentals, drawing, figure drawing, art history, aesthetics, writing for artists and critical theory in the visual arts.  Graphic Design students then focus on editorial design, graphic design methods and principles, motion design, web design, advertising design, package design and corporate design and branding.  All students create a senior project. New Media students continue with coursework in sound art, 2D and 3D experimental animation, video art, EcoArt and art and interactivity.  All students create a senior project.  Students in both programs are required to travel to galleries and museums each year and to attend on-campus art lectures.

Students in George Mason University's Computer Game Design Program focus on studio fundamentals, digital arts, computing history, game design, history of computer game design, computer animation for games, music for film and video, story design, writing and editing music and sound, classical music, online gaming and file sharing, computer game platform analysis, digital media and visual art and video principles and practices.  All students complete an internship and create a senior project.

M. F. A. candidates in Art and Visual Technology may select the New Media emphasis.  Students concentrate on research methodologies, art writing seminars, theory, criticism and the visual arts, special topics in art and visual technology, sound art, experimental 2D and 3D animation, video art, hybrid animation and advanced art and interactivity.  All students create a thesis project and exhibition.
M. A. candidates in Graphic Design complete coursework in drawing, typography, web design, brand identity design, history of graphic design and special topics in graphic design.  All students complete a design seminar and create a thesis and thesis project.

A portfolio is required with the application to the graduate and undergraduate Art and Visual Technology and Computer Game Design programs.  Art, merit and need-based scholarships are available.  Virginia residents are encouraged to apply for state-sponsored grants and scholarships.