Graphic Arts, AA

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The Associate in Arts degree in Graphic Arts prepares students for transfer or further study in the field of graphic design. Students receive hands-on instruction and training necessary for entry-level employment while completing a general education path of study. Coursework involves work that will allow for employment in the field of graphic design and layout. Specific job titles include but are not limited to the following: Computer Typesetter, Paste-Up Artist, Cartoonist, Graphic Layout and Design, Ad Artist, Computer Artist, Photo Restoration, Photo Manipulation, and Scanner Operator. Students will work in a manner that involves industry standards, leaving the program with a portfolio allowing them to pursue jobs immediately upon completion or continue their education.

Program Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this program, students will be able to:

Demonstrate ability to create graphic designs and documents using electronic desktop publishing software, create artwork using digital design software, design World Wide Web pages, and design pre-press publications.
Demonstrate the skills required to complete project based documents using a graphic design software.
Demonstrate an understanding of graphic design concepts and principles.
Demonstrate proficient skills of Typography.

Major Requirements - Core

Complete 18 units

GRART 1A Digital Imaging I Units: 3
GRART 2A Graphic Design and Layout I Units: 3
GRART 3A Digital Illustration for Graphic Design I Units: 3
GRART 4A Web Design I Units: 3
GRART 6A Digital Design for Publication I Units: 3
GRART 8 Typography I Units: 3

Major Requirements - Restricted Electives

Complete 3 units selected from:

GRART 1B Digital Imaging II Units: 3
GRART 2B Graphic Design and Layout II Units: 3
GRART 3B Digital Illustration for Graphic Design II Units: 3
GRART 4B Web Design II Units: 3
GRART 6B Digital Design for Publication II Units: 3

Minimum Major Units Required: 21

Complete all courses with a grade of “C” or better.

General Education

Complete one of the following general education patterns:

Students are advised to double-count courses in the major or area of emphasis to also satisfy general education when possible. Course subject credit will be awarded in satisfaction of both major/area of emphasis and lower division general education requirements, but the units will only be counted once in computing the total number of units for the degree.

Minimum Degree Units Required: 60

For more information:

Contact the Arts and Multimedia Transfer and Career Pathway (TrAC)