Graphic Design Graduate Program (Master's Degree)

The Graduate Program in Graphic Design offers a research-oriented education that integrates creative practice, critical thinking, and academic inquiry within the field of contemporary visual communication. The program encourages students to develop original design approaches by combining theoretical knowledge with studio-based practice and interdisciplinary perspectives.

Responding to the rapidly evolving nature of visual communication, the program prepares designers and researchers who can critically engage with cultural, technological, and social transformations. Students are encouraged to explore areas such as typography, editorial design, branding, information design, digital publishing, motion graphics, user experience, and emerging design technologies through research-driven projects and creative experimentation.

The curriculum combines theoretical courses, studio practice, seminars, and independent research, enabling students to develop innovative design solutions while contributing to academic knowledge in the field of graphic design.

Program History
The Graduate Program in Graphic Design was established in 2002 within the Institute of Social Sciences at Akdeniz University. Following the establishment of the Graduate School of Fine Arts in 2007, the program continued its academic activities within the new institutional structure and has continuously evolved in response to contemporary developments in graphic design education.

Educational Philosophy and Objectives
The program adopts an educational approach that integrates creative practice with scholarly research. It aims to educate designers and researchers who possess strong theoretical knowledge, employ scientific research methods effectively, think critically, and develop innovative design solutions.

Students are encouraged to conduct independent research, produce original design projects, and engage with interdisciplinary perspectives while contributing to contemporary discussions in visual communication and design.

Research Focus
Visual Communication Design
Editorial Design
Branding and Corporate Identity
Typography
Information Design
Motion Graphics
Digital Publishing and New Media
User Experience (UX/UI)
AI-Assisted Design Processes
Visual Culture and Design Research

Career Opportunities
Graduates may pursue careers as academics, researchers, graphic designers, art directors, branding consultants, editorial designers, UX/UI designers, and creative professionals within design studios, advertising agencies, digital media organizations, and public or private institutions. They may also establish independent design practices or continue their academic studies at the doctoral or proficiency in art level.

Academic Stuff
Assoc. Prof. Bekir KİRİŞCAN (Head of Dept.)
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Aydın ZOR
Assoc. prof. Uğur Günay YAVUZ
Assoc. Prof. Handan DAYI
Assoc. prof. Dr. Süleyman ÖZDERİN
Assist. Prof. Dr. Nafia ÖZDEMİR