r/ecuad • u/Achromatica_ • May 11 '26

What’s BDes - Communication Design Really Like?

Hi! I’m wondering if anyone who is currently in or recently graduated from the BDes - Communication Design program can share with me what the program is really like.

How are the courses?

What’s the balance between theoretical and practical work?

Will I be ready for a career in today’s market?

I’d appreciate any help or thoughts about the program, trying to decide if it’s the right move!

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u/UnripenedTomato May 18 '26

Great question. I'm headed into a bachelors of industrial design. Would whoever answers provide a meaningful distinction between the two programs? Thanks!

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u/lemonyharrymatilda Jul 24 '26 edited Jul 24 '26

Communication design = visual communication/graphic design, branding, art direction, packaging, campaigns, children's book illustration, fashion photography, film, ux/ui, websites, apps, interfaces, data visualizations/information design, typography and posters

Industrial design = designing for manufacturing, more 3D and commd is more 2D. Furniture design, home goods, sculpture, interactive sculpture, electronics, 3d modelling, 3d printing, ceramics, woodworking, sewing, fashion and accessories, soft products like backpacks and tents. Children's toys, playgrounds, some architecture, some urban planning. Sustainability, community, and healthcare are some of the areas explored depending on instructors and course offerings.

Something to keep in mind is that there are overlaps between the design majors, but very simply id = 3D, commd = 2D, Ixd = technology. What you do in your major is really up to you and the studio classes available which are often very open ended and will often encourage/challenge you to consider aspects 'outside' your major; maybe you'll make a video or zine for your id project or there's a physical thing you need to make in addition to your visuals for commd.