USM Art and Design Program Ranked in Top 50 in the Country by GDUSA Magazine

Wed, 05/04/2022 - 01:03pm | By: Ivonne Kawas

The Graphic Design Program at The University of Southern Mississippi (USM) has been selected as one of the Top 50 Design Schools in the nation by Graphic Design USA (GDUSA).

GDUSA is a print and online magazine that is considered an authority in the graphic design industry and has been in print for nearly 60 years. Other schools on this list include the Rhode Island School of Design, School of Visual Arts, Maryland Institute College of Art and more.

The Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, Dr. Chris Winstead, applauded this recognition. “GDUSA has been a leading publication for graphic design news and information for decades. To be included in their 2022 list of Top Design Schools is a testament to the national relevance of our graphic design program and the outstanding work of our faculty and students.”

Winstead added, “We certainly know that our program produces well-trained and talented graduates, but receiving this kind of recognition from the industry itself is greatly appreciated.”

At the heart of the success of the program are talented students and a culture that fosters curiosity highlighted John Mark Lawler, Associate Professor and Graphic Design Area Coordinator.

“We are incredibly proud of our graphic design program here at Southern Miss. As faculty, we strive to foster a culture that encourages exploration of both form and function throughout all levels of the program,” said Lawler.

“Our students really embrace the rigor of the program with a sense of pride and a determination to be the best. Ultimately, the students are who make this program successful,” Lawler added. “I am continuously amazed by the level of professionalism and talent displayed on a daily basis from our students.”

Associate Professor of Design Jacob Cotton described this honor as momentous for both the university and its students. “It illustrates the top tier graphic design education that our students receive at Southern Miss,” Cotton said. “Our faculty have worked hard to create a rigorous and successful program for many years to best prepare our students for employment anywhere in the country.”

View the GDUSA Top Design Schools list or learn more about the USM Art and Design program.