In the spring of 2004 a by-invitation-only group of elite graphic design students began working together outside of class on real-world projects for professional clients. In the fall of the same year, the group evolved into the reinstated upper level graphic design course, STA 494, while retaining its selective nature as a group of advanced students. Each year, students who exemplify the creativity, dedication and professionalism of the Graphic Design Program at Michigan State University are individually selected by faculty to join the Design Center creative team.

Guided by Chris Corneal, Assistant Professor of Graphic Design in the Department of Art & Art History, the group has had the opportunity to work with real-world clients, both from within the University and from without, in a mutually educational and professional environment. From logos to packaging, from brochures to websites, Design Center has worked on a variety of projects, each completed with the goals, and personalities of each individual client in mind.

Recent clients include: ASMSU, Capitol Area District Library, Department of Art & Art History of MSU, globalEDGE of MSU-CIBER, Medical Technology Program of MSU, Sealz-It, University Relations of MSU.

Although Design Center deals with creating visual communication for clients in a professional manner, there are plenty of opportunities to travel outside the Kresge Computer Labs in order to get new perspectives and inspiration. Occasional group meetings are organized at local hangouts to go over designs and concepts in a more relaxed and less formal setting. There is also an annual trip to Oldsmobile Park to watch a Lansing Lugnuts baseball game as a semester finale and reward for the hard work.

These activities help us generate ideas together as a class and give us a better sense of the community and environment in which we design.

Design Center 2006

Interested in discussing what Design Center can do for you?

Please contact our faculty advisor:

Chris Corneal
Assistant Professor
Department of Art & Art History
Michigan State University

corneal@msu.edu
517-432-5299