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Graphic Design

Bachelor of Arts
Our graphic design program is based on real-world applications and experience, current trends, and skills you will use in the future.

Fast Facts

Meets on-site in Olathe
126 credit hours
Designers creating a layout on paper

We Prepare You

Graphic design is the art of using design elements – typography, images and symbols – to convey information or ideas, making messages come alive.

Our first priority is to provide you instruction based on the needs of the professional world. Because our professors are plugged into this industry, they know what current trends and skills students should be learning.

Program Overview

You’ll work on projects for local companies, present to real clients and complete an in-depth design project as part of a marketing research project paired with an MNU student marketing team you’ll get first-hand experience with the relationship between designers and marketers. You will explore topics from a Christian worldview and learn how to use graphic design to benefit the business world in a positive way. You’ll also be accustomed to presenting and taking constructive criticism for your work during in-class critiques.

Graduates walk away with a robust and matured portfolio, as part of a senior seminar assignment.

Visit our Catalog to view all courses

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Cost & Value

A degree from MNU is a competitively priced, affordable option designed for students with a busy schedule. We’re here to help you find the best options to assist you as you work toward earning your degree.

Credit Hours:
Financial Aid Available

General Education: 42-50

Major Requirements: 41

Emphasis: 11-12

Electives: 25-32

Total: 126

The Federal Direct Student Loan Program is an additional payment option. MNU School Code: 007032. Information and applications may be obtained from the Student Financial Aid Services Office at 913.971.3298 or finaid@mnu.edu.

Pioneer Pledge

Concern about paying back student loans is common. That’s why we provide the Pioneer Pledge, our loan repayment assistance program. If your income is modest after graduation, Pioneer Pledge assists with your educational loan repayments. Learn more on our financial aid pages.

MNU Scholarships

Your education is one of the most important investments you will ever make. At MNU nearly 100% of new students qualify for financial assistance that greatly reduces the actual cost of an MNU education.

Payment Options

Your degree is an investment in your future. We have a variety of different payment options available, so you can choose the option or combination of options, that best fits your situation. The total cost will be calculated based on your program and can be divided into multiple payments.

Application Process

Fall 2025 Start

Now accepting applications from seniors in high school or college transfers who are interested in starting at MNU in Fall of 2025.

Fall 2026 Start

Now accepting early action application from juniors in high school! Applicants with a cumulative high school GPA of 3.75 (weighted or unweighted) will be considered for provisional admission with priority consideration for our honors program and performing arts scholarships.

*Some exceptions made on case by case basis

Technology

New students in English, Music, Theatre, Graphic Design, Kinesiology, Biology, Chem, Physical Education, Math, Physics, and Math Education majors will be provided a new iPads to increase their learning experience.

The iPad Pro provided to students is the latest model from Apple and includes a keyboard and digital pen. If students graduate from MNU, they can keep the equipment for a significantly reduced fee which is prorated based on the length of their enrollment.

FAQ

  • Will I have to pay in one lump sum up front or distributed over 4-years?
    • The cost of the iPad is paid over 8 semesters of attending MNU.  When you graduate, you get to keep the iPad! If you transfer to MNU, you will pay a similar fee each semester.  Because you haven’t been at MNU for 8 semesters, you may have to pay
  • Do I HAVE to participate, or can I opt out?
    • If you have an iPad with the right specs, you may be eligible to opt out but you’ll still need to link your iPad to our system so we can push apps out to your iPad.  Without this, you won’t be able to fully participate in class.  Think of this like a textbook purchase.  If you purchase the 5th edition of a textbook when the class is using the 8th edition, you will fall behind.  We need the iPad to be current and high functioning to run the apps we’ll use in class.
  • What if I change my major?
    • You have the option to pay the balance of the iPad and take it with you or return the iPad to the department.
  • What happens if it breaks?
    • Our support services will help assess the problem and determine how to fix the iPad.  In the meantime, you may be given a loaner iPad to use so you don’t fall behind in class.  If the break isn’t covered by warranty, you’ll need to pay $100 to cover damages.  You will receive instructions when we give you the iPad.
  • What happens if it is lost or stolen?
    • Lost iPads are the responsibility of the student to replace.  If it is stolen, you’ll need to file a police report.  We will help you get a replacement.  MNU has the ability to turn off any stolen iPad, rendering it useless.  You will receive instructions when we give you the iPad.
  • Will technical support be available if I have problems?
    • Absolutely!  We have student techs in the library ready to help.  Stop by Mabee Learning Commons for more information.
  • What happens at graduation?
    • Congratulations!  We check to make sure your account is paid, and you completed all your degree requirements.  Once this is done, the iPad is yours to keep. Remember, transfer students can return the device or may have a fee to pay in order to keep the device.
  • What other accessories are provided?
    • You receive a charging block and cord, Apple keyboard case, and Apple Pencil with your iPad.  We encourage you to purchase a “slip-cover” case that has room for the Apple keyboard case to remain attached to the iPad.  It will help prevent damage to the iPad or accessories.
  • Do I take it home over breaks?
    • Definitely!
  • How do I get the apps I need for classes?
    • We will put the apps for class on the iPad.  If you want to add apps, you can do so but will need to pay for this directly.
  • Are my textbooks on the iPad?
    • All students have the options to pick the textbook format best suited to them.  If a book used in class is available in an e-format, you can purchase it and have it on your iPad.  If you prefer, you can purchase a hard copy of the book.
  • Am I allowed to put my personal music and apps on the iPad?
    • Yes! While we are providing these devices to enhance learning, instruction, and student engagement, we encourage you to also use them for personal use…just not during class!
Potential Careers
  • Graphic Designer
  • Art Director
  • Video Game Designer
  • Web Designer
  • Layout Artist
  • Animator
  • Digital Media Manager

Navigate Your Business Journey

Find the program that’s right for you. Talk to your MNU team to customize your journey.