Belmont's Watkins College of Art Honored as a Top Design School

Watkins among best in the country according to Graphic Design USA Magazine

Belmont's Watkins College of Art has been named one of the top design schools in the country by Graphic Design USA (GDUSA) magazine. The annual GDUSA list recognizes graphic design programs "that excel in teaching the hard and soft skills necessary for success, in nurturing talent and expanding minds and in preparing the next generation of creatives for a dream career in the real world." 

"We are honored to be included among the elite design schools on this prestigious list," said James Pierce, dean of the Watkins College of Art. "Our faculty work tirelessly to provide our students with a world-class design education that combines technical mastery with creativity, critical thinking and an entrepreneurial spirit. This honor validates our approach of nurturing the whole student as both an artist and global citizen." 

Watkins offers Bachelor of Fine Arts degrees in areas like design communications, illustration, experiential design, photography and studio art, among others. These programs equip students with a broad range of skills focused on visual communication, creative problem-solving and understanding user needs. 

"Our graduates are prepared to make an immediate impact through their ability to understand and meet the needs of their audience," said Doug Regen, professor of practice. "They enter the workforce as adaptable, empathetic creative professionals ready to thrive in our rapidly evolving world." 

Watkins' recognition comes on the heels of several student accomplishments this spring. Two recent graduates, Anna Maack and Nick Bazzoni, were recently named "Students to Watch" by GDUSA. Additionally, Watkins students took home numerous ADDY Awards from the American Advertising Federation’s Nashville Awards.  

The GDUSA selection criteria includes input from designers, educators, hiring managers and recruiters across the nation. Watkins' inclusion reflects its excellence in graphic design education and reputation for producing top creative talent.