Earn an Associate of Arts Degree in Graphic Art and Design
Majors Overview April 3, 2014Graphic Design programs feature a combination of cutting-edge technology with traditional art concepts. Students will be taught how to use the universal visual language to communicate, with an associate degree program in Graphic Art and Design. Upon graduating, they may continue education onto a bachelor’s degree program or find entry-level jobs.
A.A. Programs in Graphic Art and Design
Students enrolled in associate degree programs in Graphic Art and Design will be imparted creative problem-solving skills and will become adept at using images, words and symbols in the creation of electronic and print visual messages. Apart from conventional design classes and general studies courses, programs include imparting knowledge about graphic design software, such as Quark, InDesign, Illustrator, or Adobe Photoshop. Community colleges, design schools, universities and colleges typically offer two-year associate degree in Graphic Art and Design.
Educational Requirements
Admission criteria typically require applicants to hold a GED certificate or high school diploma. Some programs may also require or prefer applicants who have developed a creative example or a portfolio to showcase their skills.
Coursework
Coursework in an associate degree program in Graphic Art and Design combines hands-on technology, studio work, and liberal studies. Coursework may typically include topic areas such as:
•Graphic design
•Illustration
•Website design
•Publication scheme
•Photography
•Color theory
•2-D design
•Drawing
•Typography
•Digital imaging
Career Choices
Recruiters for advanced and entry-level graphic design jobs prefer candidates who hold a bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)). However, graduates of an associate degree may seek various positions, such as:
•Illustrator
•Graphic designer assistant
•Web page designer
Continuing Education Choices
Graphic Design associate degree programs allow students to transfer some credits earned towards enrollment into a bachelor’s degree program. Design schools, colleges, and private and public universities offer many Graphic Design bachelor’s degree programs for interested individuals to enroll into. Schools offer Graphic Design degrees in Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.), Bachelor of Graphic Arts (B.G.A.), Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) and Bachelor of Science (B.S.) formats. Advanced design training is imparted to enrolled students, including internship opportunities. Graphic design professionals must pursue continued education to help stay abreast of the latest technological advancements in the field of graphic design (BLS).
