The two-year Graphic Design program is an intensive course of study that prepares students for entry-level jobs in design studios, advertising agencies, corporate in-house design departments and other businesses which use computers to create design, advertising and promotional pieces. Standards match job requirements that range from technical production abilities to high-level creative conceptualizing. The program consists of a project-oriented curriculum that incorporates industry design problems and projects to demonstrate student learning. Courses in design process and design technology interact to deliver the skills necessary to successfully complete specific design projects. Students assemble project portfolios that are reviewed by the design faculty.

With strong guidance from a local advisory committee of professional designers, the program is constantly updated with the goal of placing students in entry-level design jobs. Throughout the program there is ample opportunity for students to interact with professionals via field trips, guest lecturers, adjunct faculty and the Internet. At the end of the second year there is portfolio organization, internships, resume preparation and job-placement assistance. Although the Graphic Design program is oriented to the print medium, students are introduced to web design and multi-media design.

Upon completing the Graphic Design AAS degree, students will:

• qualify for entry-level jobs in the design industry, including graphic design studios, advertising agencies, corporate marketing departments and other businesses involved in the creation and production of design projects.
• demonstrate proficiency in industry standard software applications.
• demonstrate a clear understanding of the design process as it is applied in industry.
• demonstrate a clear understanding of design production, project workflow, and construction of digital files appropriate to successful imaging and printing.
• have created a professional portfolio with which to present their body of work to potential employers.
• have opportunities to transfer to area universities to continue their education.

The job market is competitive both nationally and locally. Graphic designers are employed at graphic design studios, advertising agencies, corporate in-house departments and publishing firms. Current students are given assistance in obtaining job interviews.

POTENTIAL POSITIONS INCLUDE: Graphic designer, art director, package designer, production designer, television graphics designer, web page designer, 3-D modeler, multimedia designer, and pre-press technician.