Category: 
November 7, 2009What are the main differences between the three? I want to major in the design field so I’m trying to figure out which one would be right for me.. I’ve been getting all kinds of different answers so if anyone could help clarify I would be so grateful
Syracuse University offers the majors of
- Communications Design
- Advertising Design
- Graphic Arts (I take it this is different than graphic design because it is offered in the school of communications)
Horaayy..there are 2 comment(s) for me so far ;)
the difference may lie in the medium of expression such as electronic design(something that appears on a screen),
print communication such as magazines and newspaper design,
graqphic arts may have emphasis on printed product such as labels, posters, corporate identity, vehicle and sign grapics.
check the course descriptions for details
I’m not sure what Communications Design is. It sounds like a fancy word for Graphic Design.
I can’t speak for everyone but for me Graphic Design involves not only visual composition, but concept development. How do you creatively communicate a company’s mission and values to the consumer? This would be a question, graphic design would solve.
Advertising to me is similar and takes an approach with sales in mind. How do we get the consumer to buy our product? How do we get them into our store? These are problems advertising would solve. Although, traditional advertising isn’t what it used to be with people watching less television and reading less newspapers, etc. It will be interesting to see how this industry transforms in the future.
Graphic Arts in my opinion involves a technical and production approach. In this category, I would think you would find photographers, illustrators, type designers, maybe even printing specialists. They take a concept and bring it to life.
Again, this is my interpretation and not to be taken as gospel. I have been a design professional for over 15 years, however, if that has any worth.