Graphic Design, AS

Program Description

The purpose of the Graphic Design Associate Degree program is:

• To provide a graphic design terminal or transfer program in the area of graphic design, digital media, computer graphics and advertising;
• to offer a degree program for those considering an entry-level position in related graphic design fields; and
• to provide greater technical knowledge and awareness of the creative visual arts to the community. The program is structured to equip students with a sound foundation in technical skills, graphic design concepts, aesthetics, terminology and vocabulary, and to provide an awareness of the application of acquired technical knowledge. Computer use will be an integral part of the program.

This degree provides the Graphic Design student with a broad, art-based degree primarily for transfer with fundamental skills developed in 2D, 3D and time-based studios. It provides students with a Graphic Design track to 4-year university programs with a broad and foundational art and design background.

In addition to the general Graphic Design degree, students may choose Graphic Design: Design & Illustration or Graphic Design: Digital Media/Web Design.

Program Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of all Graphic Design degree program requirements, graduates will:

1. Demonstrate an understanding and appreciation of graphic design as a form of communication and art.
2. Develop an ability to use design processes and principles to create visual products that convey a specific message to a targeted audience.
3. Integrate creative thinking skills and strategies and use problem-solving techniques across a wide range of media.
4. Communicate an understanding of how creative processes and skills are integrated with printing and other reproduction processes found in the graphic design field.
5. Demonstrate knowledge of new technologies such as computer graphics that continue to evolve into important production tools.
6. Identify the varied career paths within the graphics industry including, but not limited to, art direction, illustration, project design, production art, graphic design and media direction.
7. Develop a portfolio of work reflecting knowledge, techniques, and creativity gained during the student’s course of study.

In addition to the Graphic Design A.S. program learning outcomes students will:

• Demonstrate knowledge and skill in the application of the Principles of Design, Elements of Art, Visual Literacy and as an option, gain industry experience through internship.
• Integrate skills, techniques, and the safe use of materials and equipment necessary for studio art creation. Combine an understanding of art, design concepts, critical thinking, and problem solving in order to apply these skills to art processes using a variety of media.
• Communicate and critique art and concepts using specific art vocabulary.
• Apply a strong fine arts foundation and high quality, relevant coursework in preparation for career or transfer.
• Evaluate and demonstrate a historical, cross-cultural appreciation and awareness of the field of visual art. Develop an understanding of the principles and elements of two-dimensional and three-dimensional design and their applications to various studio disciplines.

The Graphic Design A.S. transfers to 4-year State Universities and private 4-year Art Schools in-state such as the Hartford Art School, and out of state, Mass College of Art, Springfield College, SCAD. Students may enroll in art and graphic design courses full- or part-time. There are no requirements or prerequisites (other than individual course prerequisites) for students wishing to take courses part-time or as electives for other programs. Graphic design/fine arts faculty members are available for consultation with students who wish to enroll in the program and, thereafter, for course selection and transfer information.

Degree Requirements

¹

MATH 1100 Quantitative Reasoning Recommended

²

Directed Electives are to be selected in consultation with faculty advisor and must meet stated contact hour requirement. 

Students may only earn one Associates degree in this discipline.

• Graphic Design: Design & Illustration, AS
• Graphic Design: Design Studies, AAS
• Graphic Design: Digital Media/Web Design, AS
• Graphic Design: Web Design Certificate