Graphic Design and Print Communications, AS

Major Code: 5702

Program Description

The associate of science degree in Digital Design and Print Communications is designed to provide quality technical education to prepare technicians for the rapidly changing graphic arts and digital design industries. The student will receive training in all of the basic skills required of these industries, and upon completion of the two-year program, should be qualified to enter the industry in a junior supervisory capacity directly responsible to the plant manager or supervisor.

Program Objectives

In addition to the learning outcomes set forth in the general education core curriculum for the associate degree, specific outcomes for this program have been established. Upon completion of the Associate of Science degree in Graphic Design and Print Communications, the student will be able to:

• Design and prepare electronic text, images, and/or documents for publication
• Utilize desktop publishing software common to the graphic arts industry
• Apply appropriate color theory to design and copy
• Produce or publish materials for print and digital distribution
• Have experience in the operation of printing presses
• Appropriately bind and finish a printed document
• Apply appropriate management skills for technical workers

Program outcomes are assessed by exit course examinations, performance on laboratory projects, and a capstone course. General education outcomes are assessed through the General Education Portfolio.

Typical Job Titles

Graphic Design and Print Communication graduates have opportunities for employment in publishing, design services, advertising, public relations and related industries. Typical job titles include: Graphic Designer, Graphic Arts Computer/Software Specialist, Digital Pre-Press Operator, Desktop Publisher, Sheetfed Press Operator, Webfed Press Operator, Screen Press Operator, Flexographic Press Operator, Bindery and finishing operator, First line supervisor, and Customer service representative.

Median annual salaries for typical occupations in the field range from $34,000 to $44,000 per year according to the data from the U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statstics (BLS) May 2012

Transfer Baccalaureate Options

*Management, BS *Printing Management, BS *Graphic Design, BA *Journalism, BS