Program Requirements
The Master of Science in Graphic Communications degree program prepares students for technical, creative, or professional careers in graphic communications, the third largest manufacturing industry in the United States. The program serves the needs of graphic communications, graphic arts, printing management, or graphic design graduates from other institutions, as well as undergraduates with degrees in engineering, manufacturing, computer science, communications, technology and various business fields who want to transition into graphic communications fields.
The MS program is enhanced by Clemson’s undergraduate program of more than 400 students and works closely with Clemson’s nationally recognized Packaging Science program. Industry supports wellequipped GC laboratories. Graduates are placed in positions in a variety of printing, packaging, publishing, imaging and related industries in management, marketing, sales, customer service, creative, technical, scientific and academic positions. Placement rates are consistently high.
Program entrance is available fall, spring and first or second summer terms. Requirements for the program include 33 credit hours of graduate courses for a non-thesis option or 30 hours with a thesis. Within the total requirements, at least 17 hours will be in GC technical/managerial courses; seven will be research related; six credits will be from outside the Graphic Communications Department; and at least one-half will be at or above the 8000 level. Based upon applicant’s undergraduate coursework and work experience, prerequisite courses may be required in specific areas. Students without relevant work experience will also complete an industrial internship.
In addition to the standard Application for Admission, the Graphic Communications Department admissions committee requests a narrative of approximately two pages in length, to include related and nonrelated work history, educational background, current position and an explanation of how Clemson’s MS in Graphic Communications program relates to the applicant’s professional goals. A separate résumé should accompany the narrative.
