Graphic design is the process and art of combining text and graphics to communicate effective messages in design. The impact of graphic designers can be seen everywhere—in logos, brochures, newsletters, posters, websites, packaging, and much more.
Southwestern’s graphic design program will help you learn how to effectively and professionally arrange elements to convey information to an audience. You will take courses in the art & design department, as well as the business and information technology department. In just two years, you will gain skills using the latest graphic design software to put your designs in print and on the web.
Awards Available
Associate of Applied Science Degree
The Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree is a specialized degree that can be used for immediate entry into the workplace. Emphasis is placed on competence of applying basic principles, theories, and occupational skills. These are two-year programs.
A certificate or diploma is a credential showing completion of a select group of courses that focus on job skills preparation in a 9– or 10–month format. These programs may be used toward completion of an AAS degree.
Potential Careers
- Graphic designer
- Layout designer
- Web designer
Sample Courses
- CSC 110 Introduction to Computers
- GRA 131 Digital Layout
- ART 133 Drawing
- ART 120 2-D Design
- BUS 121 Business Communications
- MKT 110 Principles of Marketing
- GRA 132 Digital Layout II
- ART 130 Introduction to Computer Animation
- MGT 110 Small Business Management
- GRA 112 Introduction to Printing Technologies
- CSC 135 Digital Communications
- GRA 173 Typography
- ART 117 Computer Graphic Design
- ART 186 Digital Photography
- ECN 115 Personal Finance
- ART 123 3-D Design
- GRA 151 Web Design
- GRA 920 Graphic Design Capstone
- WBL 110 Employability Skills
Click on the course number in the list above to view the course description. This may not be a complete list of courses that may be included for the Graphic Design program. To see all courses in a semester-by-semester plan, view the Graphic Design program course outline.
Degree requirement advising sheet
Upon completion of this program, students will be able to:
- Develop and demonstrate the ability to plan, communicate, design and build efficient documents/files in appropriate software programs for the graphic design profession
- Utilize proper terminology, techniques and procedures common to the graphics industry
- Develop an online portfolio
- Demonstrate commitment to maintaining a strong work ethic
- Develop the technical and interpersonal skills to support the user community