BFA

Communication Design & Strategy

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We believe in a multidisciplinary approach. The BFA in Communication Design & Strategy blends foundational graphic design with human-centered practices in user experience (UX) design, motion graphics, strategic writing and advertising.

Inspired by the history and innovation that is Detroit, the Communication Design & Strategy program fosters an environment where we push boundaries both in the studio and in the community.

That's on winning empowers girls in sports aged 12-16 to tackle the stereotypes and rise above the rest, all in the spirit of the Detroit Lions.

86%

Placement Rate
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STEM-Designated Program

The program is designed to cultivate communication design 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.

A Holistic Approach

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.

Real-world Experiential Learning

Students in our program have the opportunity to collaborate with peers from diverse backgrounds, work on real-world experiential learning projects and engage with industry professionals.

Career Opportunities

Whether you are interested in a career in advertising agencies, design studios, digital media companies, or start your own venture, the Communication Design & Strategy program will empower you to thrive as a design leader in a rapidly changing professional landscape.

A simple animation showing various rebranding elements of the VA identity

Dylan Abraham

Developed for the Extended Reality (XR) course, Prescription for Profit is an interactive installation that exposes the stark disparity between the manufacturing costs of essential medications and their retail market prices. By scanning barcodes on prescription bottles, users trigger animated content alongside a printed receipt that breaks down the actual costs and corporate profits. This immersive experience highlights the steep price barriers that routinely place life-saving treatments out of reach for thousands of people. — Eben Breton, Thomas Rascol

This senior thesis projects addresses the stigma surrounding natural hair within the Black community has long been a source of pain and marginalization, often rooted in Eurocentric beauty standards that devalue textured hair. By leveraging strong imagery that celebrates the diversity and beauty of Black hair, combined with direct, empowering typography, we can actively challenge these harmful narratives. — Kennedy Noble

Zander Connally

A page from the Houston Office of Officially Unofficial Affairs — Elise Sansbury

Freyja Humbert-Iles

Through collaborative projects, industry partnerships, and citywide exhibitions, student work takes center stage — pushing boundaries, forging connections, and drawing on Michigan’s energy to shape bold ideas and future creative leaders.

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Our Department

Hands-on experiences that help bring your imagination to life.

Students walking and talking around boards during industry day

Your Future, In Motion

With our extensive industry connections spanning over a century, we ensure that the active learning our students engage in aligns with industry needs, preparing them for careers.

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Cutting-Edge Spaces for Creative Minds

Enjoy unlimited access to industry-standard facilities that prepare you for real-world production.

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Internationally, nationally and right here in Detroit, Communication Design & Strategy graduates pursue multiple avenues upon graduation.

*Note: This information was gathered using Lightcast Labor Market Analytics and includes the median salary for the lifetime of a career in these specific professions. CCS alumni outcomes may vary.

Possible Career Choices

App Designer

Art Director

Branding/Identity Designer

Brand Manager

Brand Writer

Creative Director

Design Director

Design Strategist

Digital Content Manager

Digital Designer

Environment Designer

Exhibit Designer

Graphic Designer

Interaction Designer

Mobile Media Designer

Motion Graphic Designer

Multimedia Graphic Designer

Social Media Designer

Radio & TV Producer

UX/UI Designer

Web Designer

Paolo Catalla ’12 & Meg Jannott ’12

Founder/Principal Creative, Semi:Formal;
Head of Design/Founding Partner, Lafayette American
Ilana Portney-Preston ’21

Production Designer
Emily Tinklenberg ’19

Freelance Motion Designer

News & Events

Hear more about CCS’s community of artists, designers, and creative thinkers.

Through collaborative projects, industry partnerships, and citywide exhibitions, students push boundaries, forge connections, and draw on Detroit’s energy to shape bold ideas and future creative leaders.

Explore CCS News Events