The Senior Thesis project in the Graphic Design program at SUNY New Paltz is a two-semester, focused exploration into a topic of choice. Students position their investigations relative to conventional and contemporary design practices and use visual communication to help inform and engage a defined audience. In the first semester, students research and write a detailed thesis proposal, apply design research practices, talk to experts in their subject, gather content, and develop prototypes. In the second semester, students refine their ideas and execute the project goals and outcomes.

This year presented immense challenges for the students: a global pandemic, racial injustice, political unncertainty, and personal isolation. Despite all of this, these projects reflect a resiliance and resourcefulness that ask: How can we use design to address social issues, create community, tell stories, practice self-care, and better understand each other? This website and digital catalog serve as artifacts to celebrate and honor the hard work of our students over the past year. Please enjoy the show.

Graphic Design is a complex, multi-faceted and highly competitive field of communication requiring a synthetic understanding of a broad range of formal, technical, and conceptual issues. The Graphic Design BFA program at SUNY New Paltz is a professional program, accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD). The program’s objectives align with the essential competencies defined by NASAD and AIGA, the professional association for design.