Program Overview
The Graphic Design program offers a diverse educational experience in all phases of graphic communications. The program exposes the student to a thorough scope of the industry, as well as preparing students to create and run their own freelance business. Students who complete the program will be well-versed in the modern graphics industry, and will have a variety of employment options, such as commercial or promotional needs, packaging, displays, or logos by using modern technologies. Students will take hands-on classes to learn how to use software used in the industry at a professinoal level. Students will create a portfolio of work, as well as complete a Capstone project, which can include an industry internship as a graduation requirement; this allows students to obtain the tools necessary to gain employment in the graphics field.
Career Opportunities
Students who complete the program will be well-versed in the industry, and will have a variety of employment options. Print media includes such possibilities as newspapers, magazines, hospitals, special interest organizations, and various businesses – anyone needing logos, printed brochures or other materials, event advertising, etc. Web developing is a multi-faceted specialty with a growing demand. Video options include television and web advertising, as well as video components embedded in websites. In addition, many graduates develop their own freelance businesses.
For those students who may already have a degree in another field and/or who simply wish to gain knowledge and skills in graphic design, we also offer two certificate program options, each of which can be obtained in one semester and require 15 credits. Our Foundations Certificate introduces the student to basic skills in the graphic design industry. Our Advanced Certificate builds on the Foundations Certificate skills, and would be appropriate for those who may already have some experience or background in the field, or who have taken the Foundations Certificate.
Program Outcomes
As a result of completing the Graphic Design Program, the student will be able to:
- Demonstrate an understanding of the theory and processes associated with the Graphic Design profession;
- Understand and use appropriately the technical vocabulary associated with the Graphic Design profession;
- Demonstrate the ability to apply critical thinking skills to successfully problem solve customer needs;
- Produce a body of work that serves as a professional portfolio.
Course Sequencing
First Year
Second Year
In order to be successful in the Graphic Design program a student must:
- Have command of the English language;
- Have a high school diploma or equivalent;
- Be able to complete requirements for college level classes;
- Be able to understand and follow both written and oral instructions;
- Have sufficient vision to make fine visual discriminations, and for reading instructions and course materials;
- Have reading comprehension skills sufficient to read and comprehend service literature;
- Have communication skills sufficient to prepare required reports;
- Have basic understanding of common computer operating systems and procedures;
- Have good understanding of measurement systems;
- Have the ability to work with others;
- Have a good eye for detail/attitude toward quality.
