Program Description The Graphic Design and Communications program is structured to give students a background in several areas of the graphic design field. Study includes classroom and lab instruction in a Mac-equipped computer studio, where students develop skills in layout, typography, print media, print reproduction, Web design and digital photography. Coursework covers preparing art for print and online publication in advertisements, branding-identity systems, photography, illustration, direct mail, brochure design, desktop publishing and computer graphics using up-to-date industry standard software.
Each student is required to prepare a portfolio of his or her best work for presentation to potential employers and art directors.
Preparation A high school or employment background related to any communications field is helpful, such as journalism/photo journalism, advertising/marketing, visual art, graphic art, writing, yearbook design, computer graphics or desktop publishing. Persons interested in this field should be creative and imaginative, have a sense of color and form, and be able to work under pressure, meet deadlines, and work independently or as part of a team. Artistic ability is a plus. Graduates should expect to be retrained on the job to handle new or upgraded software and equipment.
Program Requirements Students who complete the curriculum requirements earn a Program Certificate or an Associate in Applied Science degree. Required minimum placement scores: ACT Math - 15 or higher ACT Reading - 15 or higher ACT English - 15 COMPASS Math - (pre-algebra) 33 COMPASS Reading - 73 COMPASS English - 59
Career Opportunities A wide variety of careers are available depending on individual talent, experience and ability or desire to relocate. Graphic designers work in advertising agencies, public relations departments and news media and Web design departments. Other related fields include interior and textile design, multimedia development, industrial design, retail merchandising, sign making and Webdesign. Self-employment is another option.
