Visual Arts and Visual Communication Design
Sabanci University Tuzla Campus, Turkey
Bachelor of Arts in Visual Arts and Visual Communication Design
Sabancı University
Visual Arts and Visual Communication Design
Program Overview: Visual Arts and Visual Communication Design at Sabancı University
The Visual Arts and Visual Communication Design (VAVCD) program at Sabancı University provides students with a comprehensive understanding of visuality and its applications across the domains of visual art and visual communication design. Rooted in Sabancı University's distinctive interdisciplinary educational approach, the program aims to educate the 'new' artist and designer who can navigate the increasingly visual nature of modern life and media-based communication.
The program offers two adjacent tracks — Visual Arts and Visual Communication Design — allowing students to pursue careers as artists, designers, or hybrids of the two. Beyond the core visual disciplines, the curriculum integrates creative output such as sound design, new media production, and temporally based works, preparing graduates for the multifaceted demands of contemporary creative industries.
Sabancı University's unique educational system allows all undergraduates to explore different disciplines during their first year through a Foundations Development Program before declaring their major. This means you can confirm your choice of the VAVCD program with greater understanding of your academic interests and career goals, making for a more informed and confident educational journey.
Key Program Highlights
- Two specialized tracks: Visual Arts and Visual Communication Design, with a unique curriculum encouraging cross-disciplinary collaboration
- State-of-the-art facilities including design studios, photography studio, sound design studio, motion capture studio, and interaction lab
- International exchange agreements with institutions across Europe, Asia, and beyond, including Aalto University, NUS Singapore, and NABA Milano
- Interdisciplinary first-year Foundations Development Program allowing students to explore multiple fields before declaring their major
Curriculum and Modules
The VAVCD curriculum blends studio practice with theoretical inquiry, covering both traditional art techniques and cutting-edge digital tools. Students progress from foundational visual language courses through specialized studio work in their chosen track, culminating in senior project courses that demonstrate professional-level competency.
An introductory course establishing the fundamental principles of visual perception, composition, color theory, and form. Students develop a shared vocabulary for analyzing and creating visual works across media.
Focuses on developing observational and expressive drawing skills through a range of traditional and experimental techniques. Students build core draughtsmanship abilities essential to both visual arts and design practice.
Explores the art and technique of arranging type to make written language legible, readable, and visually appealing. Students study letterform anatomy, typographic hierarchy, and layout principles for print and digital media.
Introduces students to three-dimensional modeling, rigging, and animation techniques using industry-standard software. The course covers character animation, environmental design, and rendering workflows.
Combines graphic design principles with animation and filmmaking to create dynamic visual content. Students produce time-based works for broadcast, web, and installation contexts.
Elective Courses
Admission Requirements
Sabancı University welcomes international students from diverse educational backgrounds to apply for the VAVCD program. Admission is based on a holistic evaluation of academic achievement, standardized test scores, and supporting documents. All applications are processed through Uni4Edu — contact us for personalized guidance throughout the process.
Academic Requirements
- High School DiplomaCompleted secondary education equivalent to Turkish high school, with strong academic standing
- SAT (optional)Minimum score of 1100 out of 1600 (not compulsory but accepted)
- IB DiplomaMinimum overall score of 28 out of 45
- A-LevelsAAA to AAB grades
- TR-YOS (optional)Minimum score of 350 out of 500
Language Requirements
- TOEFL iBTMinimum total score of 85
- PTE AcademicMinimum total score of 71
- Sabancı ELAEStudents who do not meet English proficiency requirements enroll in the School of Languages preparatory program
Required Documents
Application Deadlines
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships and Funding
Sabancı University offers merit-based scholarships to international students, with awards determined by academic success, extracurricular achievements, and available scholarship quotas. Every applicant is automatically considered for scholarship support during the admissions evaluation. Contact Uni4Edu for detailed scholarship guidance tailored to your profile.
Sabancı University Merit Scholarship
Varies based on academic merit (partial to full coverage available)Automatically assessed during the admissions process based on exam scores, GPA, and extracurricular activities. Once granted, the scholarship continues for the full duration of the program provided academic criteria are maintained.
Sabancı University International Student Grant
Financial support available to high-achieving international applicants demonstrating outstanding academic records and leadership potential. The grant amount is determined individually based on the applicant's profile.
External Scholarship Opportunities
Varies by providerInternational students may also be eligible for external scholarships such as the Turkiye Burslari (Turkey Scholarships) and other third-party funding sources. Uni4Edu can help identify and guide you through additional funding options.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects
Graduates of the VAVCD program are equipped for diverse careers across the creative industries, combining artistic vision with technical proficiency and interdisciplinary thinking. Sabancı University's strong industry connections and a reported 97% employment rate within the first year of graduation reflect the program's effectiveness in preparing students for professional success.
Potential Career Roles
Where Graduates Work
Rankings and Recognition
Sabancı University is consistently recognized as one of the top universities in Turkey and is highly regarded internationally for its interdisciplinary research and innovative education model. The university's strong performance across multiple global ranking systems reflects its commitment to academic excellence and industry relevance.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Social Sciences | THE Subject Rankings | 201-250 |
| Engineering and Computer Science | THE Subject Rankings | 351-400 |
| Natural Sciences | THE Subject Rankings | 401-500 |
| Art and Design (Turkey) | EduRank | #16 in Turkey |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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