ENTERPRISE STAFF REPORT

HIGH POINT – The $300 million upgrade at High Point University and an emphasis on 21st century science have opened opportunities for students to study graphic design and biochemistry.

Academic leaders added a Graphic Design and Digital Imaging degree program for the fall 2009 semester.

Scott Raynor, chairman of the Department of Visual Arts, said the new studies will explore cutting-edge digital imaging methods. Two new schools, the Plato S. Wilson School of Commerce and the Nido R. Qubein School of Communication, offer the latest in communication and business technologies.

“We also have had a steadily growing interest in graphic design from our students, as well as students visiting HPU from high schools,” Raynor said.

Students will create print and Web-based images. They also will get a solid grounding in darkroom and digital photography.

The Wilson School offers state-of-the art interactive graphics.

“Our students will be using a new device that allows them to draw and design on a large interactive screen through the use of a special ‘digital pen,’ ” Raynor said.

The biochemistry major includes four new laboratory and research courses.

“It is our hope that, by offering a fresh and dynamic program of study in this burgeoning interdisciplinary field, we will attract energetic and bright students to come to High Point University to study science,” said Harold Goldston, assistant professor of chemistry. “Among the various scientific disciplines, perhaps no singular field offers today’s student as many different career opportunities and as much foreseeable job growth as biochemistry.”

The new program qualifies students to attend graduate school and prepares them for a range of opportunities in industrial employment, professional schools and high school teaching.