Visual Communication/Graphic Design, A.A.S.

Program Description

The Visual Communication (VisComm)/Graphic Design Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree program prepares students in the production methods, digital media, and traditional design related to the visual communications field. Students learn to apply a variety of media to a range of audiences. Students acquire professional skills to be competitive in the visual communications industries, to include design for print, screen, and motion graphics. Visual Communication/Graphic Design is a career program, which prepares students for entry-level job positions. Non-degree-seeking students may upgrade and enrich their basic computer skill sets. Some of its courses transfer to four-year institutions. Students are encouraged to consult with an academic advisor to consider specific transfer goals.

Graduates of the Visual Communication/Graphic Design A.A.S. will be able to:

• Use the vocabulary of the elements of art, principles of design, and visual communication terminology correctly
• Apply traditional and digital methods to student-created works of visual communication
• Identify the evolving practices and emerging technologies of the visual communication industry
• Demonstrate the stages of developing a visual product
• Evaluate client/project goals
• Demonstrate ethical standards within the standards of professional practice
• Assemble a portfolio suitable for workforce entry or professional advancement

General Education Courses

The list of general education courses appears in the General Education List . Some programs recommend or require specific courses to fulfill general education requirements. Please check your program’s sequence of study for this information.

Program Requirements

• PAS-1000 First Year Experience 1 Credit **
• ART-1510 Two-Dimensional Design 3 Credits
• ART-1530 Drawing I 3 Credits
• ART-1570 Introduction to Computer Graphics 3 Credits
• ART-1620 Digital Publication Design 3 Credits
• ART-2900 Portfolio Development for Visual Art 1 Credit ***
• ART-2410 Graphic Design I 3 Credits
• ART-2520 Color Theory and Application 3 Credits
• ART-2570 Lettering, Typography and Layout 3 Credits
• ART-2610 Graphic Design II 3 Credits
• ART-2620 Digital Illustration 3 Credits
• ART-2730 Integrated Arts 3 Credits

Sequence of Study - Visual Communication/Graphic Design A.A.S.

Below are the required courses for your program arranged in a suggested sequence. Please note that the sequence does not include developmental coursework. See General Education List  for the developmental course sequence if applicable to you.

Program Total: 60 Credits

Asterisk (*) denotes a general education course.

Double asterisk (**) denotes a course that is an institutional requirement.

Triple asterisk (***) denotes a course that satisfies the culminating experience requirement for A.A.S. programs.

Need Help?

For help selecting an academic program or courses, consider using Career Coach, available at www.pgcc.edu/go/careercoach.