Graphic Design, AAS

Print Degree Planner (opens a new window) |

Specific skills learned in this program include graphic design methodologies, such as the design process, output production, and presentation. Photography, design, drawing, and video editing are core competencies. The students will learn Adobe software: Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, and Premiere. In addition, students will spend the second year learning web design and development. Students will also have a solid foundation in creating marketing plans and writing contracts. Upon completion of this program, students will

Demonstrate skills, techniques, and manipulation of tools and equipment necessary for studio graphic design that meet industry standards;
Interpret and incorporate formal elements of design into digital images;
Understand the impact of graphic communications on society;
Design and develop professional websites; and
Create a digital and print portfolio reflecting knowledge, techniques, and creativity gained during the student’s course of study.

Required Courses

First Year

Fall Semester

ARTZ 105F - Visual Language-Drawing Credit(s): 3
ARTZ 106F - Visual Language-2-D Foundations Credit(s): 3
GDSN 130 - Typography Credit(s): 3 *
GDSN 148 - Digital Illustration I Credit(s): 3
GDSN 250 - Graphic Design I Credit(s): 3

First Semester Total: 15

Spring Semester

ARTZ 108F - Visual Language-3-D Foundations Credit(s): 3
BMGT 205C - Professional Business Communication Credit(s): 3 *
OR
WRIT 101W - College Writing I Credit(s): 3 *
GDSN 248 - Digital Illustration II Credit(s): 3 *
M 094~ - Quantitative Reasoning Credit(s): 4 *
PHOT 154F - Exploring Digital Photography Credit(s): 3

Second Semester Total: 16

Second Year

Fall Semester

BMKT 225 - Marketing Credit(s): 3
ECNS 201B - Principles of Microeconomics Credit(s): 3
OR
ECNS 202B - Principles of Macroeconomics Credit(s): 3
GDSN 149 - Digital Imaging I Credit(s): 3
GDSN 200 - Introduction to Desktop Publishing Credit(s): 3 *
MART 231 - Interactive Web I Credit(s): 4

First Semester Total: 16

Spring Semester

GDSN 230 - Video Editing Credit(s): 4
GDSN 247 - Digital Portfolio Preparation Credit(s): 4
GDSN 249 - Digital Imaging II Credit(s): 3 *
GDSN 298 - Internship: Graphic Design Credit(s): 3 *
OR
Approved Elective Credit(s): 3
MART 232 - Interactive Web II Credit(s): 4 *

Second Semester Total: 18

Total Credits: 65

*Indicates prerequisite and/or corequisite needed. Check course description.

Admission Guidelines

Students in this program are expected to have a basic level of computer proficiency.

Program Information

An internship is optional for this program. Students must apply for internship placements the prior semester. Contact Cathy Allard, Career Advisor, at (406) 756-3803 or callard@fvcc.edu.

Additional Costs

Students may choose to purchase the software and a drawing tablet for personal use at home to complete assignments.

Opportunities after Graduation

This program prepares students for a global market where they can start work in the industry or a freelance business offering services in illustration, graphic design, web design, 3D animation, or digital imaging.

Advising Information:

For more information about this program, contact the FVCC Student Support Center or the Faculty Advisor.

Student Support Center Advisor	Faculty Advisor
Jori Bullemer	Dawn Rauscher, M.Ed.
LRC 129	BSS 105
(406) 756-3905	(406) 756-3861
jbullemer@fvcc.edu	drauscher@fvcc.edu