Graphic Design

Communicating ideas through art, graphics and type provides the basis for an exciting career in graphic design! If you are creative and looking for an in-demand field where every day is different and you see the results of your work, consider graphic design. Careers encompass a broad range of tasks, but all communicate something to others – to inform, influence and inspire.

Graphic designers can have a significant impact on their community.
Become Adobe certified in the 2022-23 academic year.
Salaries begin around $50,000 annually and above.
Graphic design can overlap many specialties, allowing for more advanced and unique career opportunities in a creative field!

Associate Degree
Certificate
Earnings & Outlook

Associate in Applied Science

The graphic design program prepares students for entry-level positions in design organizations. Graphic design graduates find employment in a variety of settings including the publication and printing industries, advertising and marketing organizations, and graphic design department of corporations, government agencies and retailers.

Note: This program includes a ground-based component, such as an internship or clinical experience. Your student success navigator can help you better understand the requirements.

Sample Courses

Students explore fundamental methods used to compose persuasive digital layouts. Strategies in aesthetics, personal methodology, industry-standard practices are performed with the intent to deliver a clear, unique and proficient message.

Understanding the full potential and limitations of software is essential to the success of graphic design students. Introduction to Creative Software is an entry-level course that takes the student who is new to graphic design and creative careers into this dynamic industry and lets them explore common software used.

Learn the history and principles of type identification, selection and use in professional rendering

of comprehensive print and digital layouts. Utilization of digital tools, materials and techniques are emphasized.

Associate Degree Details

cost

Jackson County

If you reside in Jackson county, Michigan.

$16,632

In Michigan

If you reside in the state of Michigan.

$18,058

Out of Michigan

If you reside outside the state of Michigan.

$22,088

Estimated program costs include tuition, fees and digital textbooks based on 2022-2023 tuition rates. Please note that these costs are only estimates and an individualized financial plan will be created when a student meets with their Student Success Navigator.

Certificate

Sample Courses

Learn how to create professional looking illustrations using Adobe® Illustrator®. This course introduces the student to techniques used by professional designers and illustrators.

Learn the intricacies of scanning and editing images for producing practical and expressive images on a computer using Adobe® Photoshop® software.

Learn the basics of desktop publishing using Adobe® InDesign®. Students use computers and laser printers to create professional-looking publications that incorporate illustrations and bitmap graphics.

Certificate Details

cost

Jackson County

If you reside in Jackson county, Michigan.

$5,656

In Michigan

If you reside in the state of Michigan.

$6,139

Out of Michigan

If you reside outside the state of Michigan.

$7,504

Earnings

The median wage for graphic designers is $50,710, annually.

Outlook

Employment of graphic designers is expected to grow 3 percent in the coming years. Many openings will result from having to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or leave the labor force.

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