Degree Overview: Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) Degree in Digital Graphic Design
Majors Overview April 12, 2015Get information about Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree programs in Digital Graphic Design and their education requirements, coursework, career choices, job and wage outlook, and continuing education choices.
Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) Degree Programs in Digital Graphic Design
Students enrolled in a bachelor’s program in digital graphic design are taught about presenting verbal and visual concepts in appealing ways through the use of various computer design tools and programs. The evolution of digital resources, in addition to theories and methods of design, is explored by programs devised to facilitate the more efficient development of visual interpretations of ideas.
Coursework emphasizes critical-thinking and problem-solving skills and is devised to teach students not only about software functions, but also about how to express messages in forms devised to captivate viewers. Numerous interactive media, including web pages and logos, are created by students, who simultaneously develop their own portfolios of work as well as collaborate with other students.
Education Requirements
Previous experience with computer applications and graphic design methods is not a requirement to be met by incoming students to the bachelor’s program, although students may benefit from having general technical and artistic experience. Admission criteria may typically require applicants to hold a GED certificate or a high school diploma.
Coursework
Over the whole duration of the program, students will work on projects to demonstrate their grasp of design principles, Internet resources, and numerous digital applications. Coursework may include topic areas such as:
•Advanced design theory
•Understanding HTML
•Web development basics
•Senior design portfolio
•Typography
•Digital photography
•Design history
•Digital design fundamentals
•Understanding CSS
Career Choices
After acquiring the skills related to translating ideas into captivating presentations and images through the use of digital tools, graduates can prepare for various creative careers:
•Web developer
•Digital media consultant
•Professional art designer
•Digital graphic designer
•Digital graphic design instructor
•Marketing professional
Job and Wage Outlook
Over the 2010 – 2020 decade, job growth rate of 13% have been predicted for graphic designers (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). During the same decade, information security analysts, web developers, and computer network architects (including web designers) are expected to see 22% growth. In May 2012, graphic designers brought in an average annual wage of $44,150, while web developers earned $62,500 on average (BLS).
Continuing Education Choices
Completion of an associate or bachelor program will prepare students for entry-level careers as digital graphic designers. They may opt for continuing education by enrolling in graduate-level courses related to graphic design; they usually pursue a Master of Fine Arts (M.F.A.) degree, wherein digital design courses may be available.