Degree Overview: Associate of Specialized Technology (A.S.T.) Degree in Visual Communications
Majors Overview January 25, 2014Associate of Specialized Technology (A.S.T.) degree programs in visual communications will prepare students for freelance assignments and staff positions where they may be responsible for designing different products for advertising and media. Usually only offered by private, for-profit technical schools, these programs are rare.
A.S.T. Programs in Visual Communications
Students enrolled in an associate of specialized technology degree program in visual technology are taught the technologies, concepts and techniques they need in designing an array of products for publishers, businesses and organizations in all kinds of media. Students can expect to become adept at using software and creative applications in tackling visual challenges by planning, analyzing and creating solutions. Externships or internships are offered by some degree programs wherein students can gain hands-on experience by applying their skills and knowledge. Multimedia communications and graphic design concepts are investigated by students while exploring concepts in multimedia illustration and presentation, graphic layouts, and advertising design. Admission criteria typically require applicants to hold a GED certificate or high school diploma.
Coursework
In addition to general education courses, contemporary commercial design products are also examined by this program; these include package designs, websites, posters and brochures. Additionally, students can develop their design skills through lab work wherein they can use state-of-the-art as well as traditional tools. Electives may be selected by students in accordance with their specific interests. Coursework commonly includes topic areas such as:
•Advertising production
•Interactive communication
•3-D modeling
•Typography
•Perspective
•Design and composition
•Animation
•Instructional design
Career Choices
Those who successfully complete the program can choose from a range of career options such as entry-level jobs in print and media design in communication, newspaper and magazine industries and aspire for job titles such as:
•Package designer
•Advertising designer
•Illustrator
Continuing Education Choices
Students can seek to continue their education by earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Visual Communications program. Concepts in motion graphics, graphic design and digital media are examined in bachelor’s degree programs through a combination of studio experience and coursework. Students are also helped in refining their vision and skills through master’s degree programs that train them to perform innovative work in the design industry.
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