Communication Design and Strategy at the College for Creative Studies
The Communication Design and Strategy course at the College for Creative Studies encourages students to develop their skills in user experience (UX) design, motion graphics, strategic writing and advertising.
Course details
School: College for Creative Studies
Course: Communication Design and Strategy
Type: Undergraduate
Location: Detroit, Michigan
Course dates: September 2027 to May 2028
Application deadline: February 2027
Course overview
The College for Creative Studies (CCS)’s BFA in Communication Design and Strategy blends foundational graphic design with human-centred practices in user experience (UX) design, motion graphics, strategic writing and advertising.
Inspired by the history and innovation that is Detroit, this programme fosters an environment where we push boundaries both in the studio and in the community.
The programme is designed to cultivate graduates who are equipped to create impactful messages, inspire brand strategy, persuade audiences, engage and expand user experiences and deliver thoughtful and creative communication strategies.
Our holistic approach ensures that students develop a comprehensive skill set that encompasses both the creative and strategic aspects of communication design, including graphic design, creative direction, motion graphics, advertising and UX/UI.
Students have the opportunity to collaborate with peers from diverse backgrounds, work on real-world experiential learning projects and engage with industry professionals.
The Communication Design and Strategy programme will empower students to thrive as a design leader in a rapidly changing professional landscape. Through collaborative projects, industry partnerships, and citywide exhibitions, student work takes centre stage – pushing boundaries, forging connections and drawing on Michigan’s energy to shape bold ideas and future creative leaders.
What will I learn during this course?
Students develop a comprehensive skill set that encompasses both the creative and strategic aspects of communication design, including graphic design, creative direction, motion graphics, advertising and UX/UI.
Create impactful messages, inspire brand strategy, persuade audiences, engage and expand user experiences and deliver thoughtful and creative communication strategies.
What are the requirements?
You can apply directly through CCS’s free, native application portal or add CCS to your common app.
If they choose, students may submit a portfolio that includes five to 12 pieces of their strongest visual artwork in any medium.
Work does not need to relate to the intended major. Applicants with a cumulative 3.0 GPA or higher (first-year) or 2.5 GPA or higher (transfer) are eligible for admission based on GPA alone.
Applicants with a cumulative GPA below these averages will be required to submit a portfolio for admission consideration.
Students seeking to transfer studio course credit from another college-level program may need to provide a set of work examples for review. Your admissions counsellor will let you know what is needed after you are admitted.
Provide official high school or college transcripts or mark sheets, along with a certified English translation if the original documents are not in English. Full admissions requirements can be found on the CCS website.
What facilities and resources are available?
CCS has some of the best facilities for all students to use, including:
- 24-hour studio spaces
- risograph printers
- large-format printers
- on-campus print services
What career prospects can I expect upon graduating?
Students can have possible careers in the following fields:
- app designer
- art director
- branding/identity designer
- brand manager or writer
- creative or design director
- design strategist
- digital content manager
- digital designer
- environment or exhibit designer
- graphic, multimedia or mobile media designer
- interaction designer
- motion graphic designer
- social media designer
- radio and tv producer
- ux/ui designer
- web designer
Who teaches this course?
Susan LaPorte, chair and professor of communication strategy and design.
