Design the world around you
Everything you see is designed. From the apps on your phone to the packaging on store shelves, from brand identities to digital experiences—graphic designers shape how we see, understand, and interact with the world.
As a graphic designer, you’ll turn ideas into visual communication. You’ll learn how to combine typography, color, imagery, and layout to solve real problems, tell compelling stories, and create meaningful experiences across print and digital media.
What you’ll learnIn this program, you will learn how to:
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Who this program is forThis program is a great fit if you:
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Build your skills. Work like a designer.
Our Graphic Design program helps you develop both creative and technical skills through hands-on coursework in:
- Design foundations
- Typography
- Color theory
- Drawing and visual development
- Photography and printmaking
- Web and digital design
- Industry-standard design software
You’ll work through real-world design processes—from concept development to final production—building the skills and mindset used in professional practice.
Portfolio-driven. Career-focused.
A strong portfolio is essential for launching a career in graphic design—and it is a central focus of our program.
Throughout your coursework, you will develop a portfolio that demonstrates your skills, creative thinking, and ability to solve visual communication problems. By graduation, you’ll have a body of work that reflects professional standards and prepares you for entry-level opportunities in the field.
Career-ready from day one
Our Associate in Applied Science degree prepares you for entry-level roles in graphic design with the skills and portfolio needed to begin your career. It also provides a strong foundation for students who choose to transfer to a four-year university.
Graduates leave with:
- A polished, professional portfolio
- Experience in both print and digital design
- Knowledge of branding and communication strategy
- Exposure to marketing and business concepts
- Experience working through real-world design workflows
Whether entering the workforce or continuing your education, this program gives you
the tools
to move forward with confidence.
Program admission and progression
Follow these steps to get started and move through the Graphic Design program:
Step 1 – Apply to ±¬ÁϳԹÏÍø
Complete the application process to become a student at ±¬ÁϳԹÏÍø.
Step 2 – Begin with recommended first-semester courses
Start with foundational courses, especially:
- GDES110 – Digital Design Applications
- GDES150 – Graphic Design Foundations
These courses introduce essential design principles and industry-standard software skills.
Step 3 – Complete required prerequisites
To enroll in GDES160 – Graphic Design I (and subsequent GDES courses), students must successfully complete:
- GDES110 – Digital Design Applications, and/or
- GDES150 – Graphic Design Foundations
with a grade of C or higher.
These prerequisite courses ensure students are prepared for more advanced coursework and can successfully progress through the program
Careers
Graphic designers work across a wide range of industries, including advertising agencies, design firms, publishing, printing companies, marketing agencies, corporate in-house teams, television and media organizations, and freelance practice.
According to national data, careers in graphic design continue to grow across both
traditional
and digital media.
Visit to view salary information and employment outlook.
Transfer made simple
Whether your goal is to enter the workforce or continue your education, our program
supports both paths.
We have established transfer relationships with many four-year colleges and universities to help ensure your credits move as smoothly as possible. General education courses typically transfer to most institutions, and many ART and Graphic Design courses apply toward bachelor’s degree programs.
We recommend meeting with the program coordinator early to create a clear transfer plan and ensure a seamless transition.
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Graphic designers are visual communicators who create designs that inform, engage, and inspire. They work across a wide range of media, including:
- Advertising and promotional design
- Social media and digital content
- Animation and video production
- Web and interactive design
- Editorial and publication design
- Catalogs and brochures
- Direct mail and marketing materials
- Branding and identity systems
- Typography and font design
- Billboards and posters
- Album and media covers
- Product packaging
- Reports and presentations
- Television and motion graphics
…and much more.
While most work is created digitally, designers also use traditional methods as part of the creative process.
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Full-time students can complete the Associate in Applied Science degree in Graphic Design in two years. The program also accommodates part-time students, allowing flexibility around work and personal schedules.
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Classes are held in the Carter Art Center in dedicated design labs equipped with Mac
computers and industry-standard design software. Students learn in a hands-on, interactive environment that reflects real-world design workflows—from concept through final production.Small class sizes allow for personalized instruction and meaningful feedback. Faculty bring professional experience and industry insight to support student development.
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Students benefit from flexible scheduling and a convenient location designed to fit their lifestyle.
The program offers:
- Small class sizes
- Industry-experienced instructors
- Strong student support services
- Dedicated design labs
- Affordable tuition.
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No. The program is designed to build skills from the ground up
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Students learn industry-standard tools, including Adobe Creative Cloud applications such as Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign.
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Yes. Portfolio development is a central focus of the program.
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Yes. Many courses transfer. Students are encouraged to plan early with the program
coordinator. -
Graduates pursue roles such as graphic designer, production artist, marketing designer, social media designer, and freelance designer.
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Yes. The program supports both full-time and part-time enrollment
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Yes. Coursework reflects real-world design workflows and professional practices.
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Yes. Students learn through hands-on projects, critiques, and studio-based assignments.
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The program combines small class sizes, industry-experienced faculty, real-world workflows,
and a strong focus on portfolio development.