In advertising, graphic designers – or graphic artists – plan, analyze, and create visual solutions to communications problems. They find the most effective way to get messages across in print, electronic, and digital media using a variety of methods such as color, type, illustration, photography, animation, and various print and layout techniques. Graphic designers develop the overall layout and production design of magazines, newspapers, journals, corporate reports, and other publications. Graphic designers also develop material for web pages, interactive media, and multimedia projects.

The coursework is designed to teach skills utilized in creating visual solutions using appropriate computer software for drawing, layout and analysis in a state-of-the-art digital design studio.

This program covers the following topics: fundamentals of computerized design technology, principles of typography, principles of color, product production procedures, principles of basic photography, principles of graphic design, fundamentals of illustration, electronic illustration, processes of image manipulation, fundamentals of page layout, introduction to web design, introduction to web programming, web design graphics development, fundamentals of web animation, and project production management. In addition, students will participate in learning experiences in all programs in the Communications Cluster and interact with students from Communication Media, Graphic Imaging, and Photo Imaging.

When students graduate, they have a complete portfolio of work that will aid in seeking entry-level positions in the graphic design and commercial art fields.