Visual Art & Design - Graphic Design Emphasis: AAS (CTE)

Associate of Applied Science | 64 credits

Program Website
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Program Description
Students with an aptitude in creative problem solving, drawing, design, photography and/or computer related visual communication should consider this rapidly expanding and competitive field. The Visual Art & Design department allows students to specialize in the following areas: Animation, Game Development, Graphic Communications, Graphic Design, Illustration, Multimedia, Motion Graphics, Photography, and Web Design.

Students who elect to pursue an AAS Degree in Graphic Design will prepare themselves for entry-level work in various applications of visual art, graphic design and advertising. Integral parts of this program, which are necessary for employment in the graphic design field, include design creativity and proficiency in current computer programs.

Graphic designers are responsible for the creative concept, design, layout and execution of printed and digital materials such as ads, brochures, logos, annual reports, catalogs, signs, packaging, posters, mobile apps, banners, and websites, etc.

Career Opportunities
Students awarded a degree in Graphic Design may find jobs in a variety of industries such as: Graphic Design, Package Design, Advertising & Marketing, TV & Film, Book & Magazine Publishing, Printing, Paper, Web Design, Animation, Textile Design, Tradeshow & Exhibit Design, Game Design, Research and Public Relations, etc.

Positions may include: Creative Director, Art Director, Graphic Designer, Lettering Designer, Surface Pattern Designer, Web Designer, Mobile Publishing Designer, Production Artist, Production Manager, Prepress Department Technician, Paper Representative, Printing Representative, etc.

Transfer/Articulation Information
Please refer to the Student Resources section of the SLCC University Transfer webpage.

Estimated Cost for Students
Tuition and student fees: http://www.slcc.edu/student/financial/tuition-fees.aspx
Course fees: $185
Supplies: $600

The Graphic Design & Communications program is committed to using Open Educational Resources (OER) whenever possible.

Note: Fees vary based upon specific registration and are subject to changes.

Program Entry Requirements
Required: High School Diploma or equivalent.
Recommended: Artistic and technical aptitude, familiarity with computers is essential.

General Education Requirements

Complete all General Education courses. Refer to Notes for program specific requirements and recommendations.

Associate of Applied Science Degree (AAS) General Education Requirements

Program General Education Notes

RECOMMENDED:

Quantitative Studies (QS): ART 1210 or
MATH 1010 or
any higher level Quantitative Literacy (QL) course

Students considering transferring to a 4-year college or university at any point in the future should take MATH 1030 or higher

Communication (CM): COMM 1010

Human Relations (HR): ART 1150

Fine Arts (FA): ART 1070

Program Requirements

Time to Completion & Graduation Map

Visual Art & Design - Graphic Design AAS: Full-time
Time to completion is four semesters (first year Fall/Spring & second year Fall/Spring) based on a full-time minimum of 15-18 credits per semester. Less than 15 credits per semester will increase the time to completion.

Program Learning Outcomes

Program learning outcome alignment with Student Learning Outcomes in brackets.

Through the successful completion of this degree students will be able to apply the principles and elements of design; learn how the history, development and usage of typography affects current design; and apply the study of page layout used for real world design /layout jobs in advertising agencies, graphic design studios, commercial print companies, etc.. [1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9]
Through the successful completion of this degree students will be able to utilize traditional (hand rendered) mechanical skills and techniques as a means to complete preliminary thumbnail, intermediate and final conceptualization studies; and utilize traditional (hand rendered) representational, stylistic and figure drawing skills. [1,2,3,4,5,6,7]
Through the successful completion of this degree students will be able to utilize technical computer software program skills and vocabulary needed in the design and printing industry; and utilize technical knowledge of paper, printing methods, color application, production and graphic standards. [1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9]
Through the successful completion of this degree students will be able to prepare for personal responsibility, professional and constructive work habits; utilize organizational and time/project management skills; participate in positive communication with others, in order to discuss ideas, theories and opinions needed for effective business interaction; and implement the design process, brainstorming, planning and goal performance needed to produce effective presentations and comprehensive portfolio development. [1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9]

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