Both internal stakeholder (student representative) and external stakeholder (industry representative) meetings were organized to comprehensively discuss the department’s strengths, needs, and areas for improvement.
Internal Stakeholder Meeting: Student Feedback in Focus
The meeting was held with the participation of Department Chair Dr. Çağdaş Topçu, Research Assistant Dr. Bengisu Cansever Bayhan, and student representative Firdevs Özlem Çağşırlı. Key student requests and feedback were discussed under the following headings:
-
Updating computer laboratories; improving performance for graphic and video software
-
Increasing events, workshops, and technical field trips
-
Strengthening collaborations with agencies and industry partners; expanding internship opportunities
-
Students’ request to graduate with the official title “Visual Communication Designer”
-
Expanding the elective course pool (new media, AI-supported design, digital arts, game design)
-
Providing more detailed information regarding Erasmus+ and international mobility opportunities
At the end of the meeting, it was agreed that feedback collection would continue periodically and stakeholder meetings would be held at regular intervals.
External Stakeholder Meeting: Strengthening Industry–Academia Collaboration
The department met with external stakeholder Tuğçe Çetintaş (Art Director – Salvo Advertising Agency), who provided detailed insights into industry expectations from graduates. Key points highlighted in the meeting include:
1. Adapting to Accelerated Production Cycles
Students must be equipped not only with software updates and typographic trends but also with trend literacy, creative problem-solving, and the ability to integrate technology into creative workflows.
2. High-Quality and Focused Portfolios
Since portfolios are the most decisive element in agency recruitment, the following criteria were emphasized:
-
A portfolio featuring 8–10 strong works
-
Original creative solutions, not copy–paste designs
-
Clear specialization or area of interest
-
Contemporary brand identity projects
3. Integrating Artificial Intelligence into Creative Processes
AI should be used not as a forbidden tool but as a resource that enhances students’ creativity and production processes.
4. Workshops and Agency Simulations
To help students understand agency dynamics, the following were recommended:
-
Establishing a “mini-agency” structure
-
Working with real briefs
-
Presentation and feedback sessions
5. Sectoral Field Visits and Analysis Activities
Outdoor advertising analyses, agency visits, and observation opportunities in media centers were noted as highly beneficial for students’ professional growth.
Department Statement
The Visual Communication Design Department announced that both student feedback and industry recommendations will be incorporated into the 2025–2026 academic plan, adding:
“Our stakeholder meetings are crucial for strengthening our curriculum, preparing our students more effectively for the industry, and ensuring the sustainable development of our department. We will continue maintaining regular communication with our internal and external stakeholders.”
Both meetings reinforced the department’s student-centered approach, industry-aligned educational model, and strong communication culture. Beginning in 2026, the department aims to implement stakeholder recommendations across both academic and practice-based activities.
