The graphic design program prepares students for professional practice in the extended field of graphic design and visual communications. The program builds a first-year foundation of aesthetic and technical skills covering the principles of design, creative problem solving, design history, photography and typography.
The second year allows students to progress into advanced study of graphic and web design practices encompassing portfolio building that enable them to put theory to practice. Students can learn to effectively communicate ideas and information in a variety of traditional, digital, print, packaging, web and other media formats. They can develop essential skills through practical hands-on experience, real client project work and a focus on professional skills and building a portfolio of work.
The program prepares graduates for employment in various design-related industries and fields, including graphic design firms, publishing, advertising, media/printing/ editing, animation, or web design/development, and in careers such as freelance designers, production designers or coordinators, content managers or publishers, marketing communications specialists, or entry-level web or graphic designers.
Students can learn to inform, motivate, engage, and entertain an audience through visual communication. This program trains students for careers in marketing, communication, advertising and related design fields.
ENGL& 101, MATH&107, PHIL 120: Placement score required
Program outcomes
Upon completing AAS-T degree in Graphic Design, students should be able to:
- Display proficiency with Graphic Design digital software packages.
- Demonstrate a clear understanding of the design process as it is applied in the industry.
- Demonstrate a clear understanding of design production, project work-flow, and construction of digital files meeting industry standards.
- Demonstrate the ability to apply design concepts to a variety of print, web, and digital media.
- Have created a portfolio, online and/or physical, to present their body of work to potential employers.
- Have opportunities to transfer to area universities and continue their education.
- Qualify for entry-level jobs in the design industry.
Students may find work in design studios, interactive studios, advertising agencies, corporate marketing departments and other businesses involved in the creation and production of design and communication projects.