Graphic Design
Area of Study: Visual Communication and Design
Degrees/Certificates:
Associate of Applied Business degree in Visual Communication and Design, Graphic Design
Certificate of Proficiency in Visual Communication and Design, Graphic Design
Academic School: Creative Arts
Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C®) offers an Associate of Applied Business degree in Visual Communication and Design, with a concentration in Graphic Design. A one-year Certificate of Proficiency in Graphic Design is also available.
Tri-C’s graphic design curriculum integrates the latest digital graphics applications and technologies with the principles of visual communication and design. Students receive a solid technical foundation in design layout for both print and web, drawing, analog and digital rendering techniques, digital imagery via raster and vector graphics, typography and color theory. Throughout the program, technical skills are developed through an exploration of the fundamental concepts of form, design, communication, aesthetics and creative problem-solving. Topics include advertising design, user experience design, package design, brand identity design, information design and graphic design studio work. Practical course projects include designing greeting cards, logos, publications, webpages, user interfaces (UI), 3D graphics and packaging systems.
Tri-C’s Graphic Design faculty is made up of working professionals with diverse educational backgrounds and work experiences. Through hands-on instruction, project-based learning and using industry-standard workflows and technologies in class, Graphic Design students develop the knowledge and skills necessary for a successful career in the commercial arts. Students graduate from the Graphic Design program with a strong, interdisciplinary portfolio showcasing their graphic design interests and skill sets for potential employers and clients.
Career Outlook
Graduates from the graphic design program are prepared for the following positions:
- Graphic designer
- Assistant art director
- Information graphics designer
- Production artist
With additional experience and training, graduates can aspire to the following positions:
- Senior graphic designer
- Environmental graphics designer
- Packaging/branding designer
- Pre-press specialist