An array of dots and dashes of color that spell CVAD in Morse Code
Tuesday, April 21, 2026
Fanciful drawing of strawberries, leaves, blueberries and flowers next to ads for products using the drawing. By Kyla Blow.
This project focused on redesigning Foragers, a mid-sized plant-based dairy company, to elevate its sophistication while staying true to its values of simplicity, ingredient transparency, and sustainability. The redesign appeals to health-conscious consumers seeking wholesome, plant-based options. By Kyla Brown, 2025 GDUSA Student to Watch.

The UNT CVAD Communication Design program is named a top design school by GDUSA

The Communication Design program in the Department of Design at the University of North Texas College of Visual Arts and Design has been named one of the nation’s Top Design Schools by Graphic Design USA for the fifth consecutive year.
 
The annual GDUSA list recognizes programs that demonstrate strength in curriculum, faculty expertise and student outcomes, placing UNT among a select group of institutions preparing the next generation of designers.
 
The consistency of the recognition reflects the program’s sustained momentum — and the strength of its students. Over the same five-year period, GDUSA has also named two UNT CVAD students each year to its competitive “Students to Watch” list, highlighting emerging designers whose work stands out on a national stage.
 
Hepi Wachter is facing forward and smiling. He wears glasses and has a white beard and mustache.
Hepi Wachter, Ph.D., Chair, CVAD Department of Design and professor of Interior Design
“Being recognized year after year speaks to the level of commitment from our faculty and the drive of our students,” said Hepi Wachter, chair of the Department of Design. “We are focused on preparing designers who think critically, communicate clearly and are ready to contribute in a rapidly evolving industry.”
 
Housed in UNT’s 238,000-square-foot Art Building, the Communication Design program emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach to visual communication. Students develop skills across branding, typography, interaction design, motion graphics and user experience, building portfolios that reflect both conceptual thinking and professional execution. Student work can be viewed on the Department of Design's B.F.A. Senior Shows webpage.
 
Faculty bring industry experience and research into the classroom, guiding students through collaborative projects, client-based work and emerging technologies shaping contemporary design practice. Located within the Dallas-Fort Worth region, one of the nation’s largest creative economies, the program also offers access to internships, professional networks and career pathways.
 
Graduates leave with a strong foundation in design thinking and a portfolio that prepares them for roles across industries, including advertising, marketing, technology and publishing.
 
The continued recognition from GDUSA reinforces UNT CVAD’s role as a leader in art and design education and its commitment to preparing graduates who make an impact in the field.
 
Prospective students interested in the Communication Design program can learn more by visiting the Department of Design webpages on the UNT CVAD site.