Graphic Design Concentration
Program Description
The Graphic Design Concentration within the Associate in Science in Media, Communication, and Design is designed for students who plan to transfer to a four-year institution to pursue a bachelor’s degree in graphic design, visual communication, digital media, or a related field.
This concentration focuses on the principles of visual communication and design. Students develop skills in typography, layout, color theory, and digital design tools while learning how visual elements are used to communicate ideas and messages effectively. Coursework emphasizes creativity, design thinking, and the use of industry-standard technologies to create visual content for print and digital media.
The program provides a strong foundation in design concepts and digital production while encouraging students to begin building a creative portfolio for continued study in design and related creative disciplines.
Transfer Information
The Graphic Design concentration is structured to align with bachelor’s degree programs in graphic design, visual communication, digital design, and related fields.
Students are encouraged to work closely with faculty and Advising & Transfer Services to ensure coursework aligns with the requirements of their intended transfer institution. Students planning to transfer within New Jersey should explore the “Transfer Programs” feature on NJ Transfer (www.njtransfer.org) to review articulation agreements and institutional requirements.
Because many design programs require portfolio submission for admission, students are encouraged to begin developing a portfolio of creative work during their studies.
Career Information
The A.S. in Media, Communication, and Design – Graphic Design Concentration is designed primarily for transfer. A bachelor’s degree is typically required for professional roles in graphic design and visual communication.
With further education, graduates may pursue careers such as:
- Graphic Designer
- Digital Media Designer
- Brand or Visual Identity Designer
- Marketing or Advertising Designer
- Web or Interface Designer
- Creative Director (with experience)
Students are encouraged to consult with faculty and Career Services early in their academic journey to explore transfer pathways, portfolio development, internships, and career opportunities in the design and creative industries.
| First Semester | Credit Hours | |
|---|---|---|
| ENGL 151 | English I | 3 |
| GRPH 101 | History of Graphic Design and Visual Communication | 3 |
| GRPH 151 | Graphic Design I | 3 |
| STSC 150 | Student Success Seminar | 2 |
| PHOT 181 | Basic Digital Photography | 3 |
| Credit Hours | 14 | |
| Second Semester | ||
| GRPH 152 | Graphic Design II | 3 |
| ENGL 152 | English II | 3 |
| Choose one of the following: | 3 | |
| Art From Prehistory to Middle Ages | ||
| Art From Renaissance to Modern World | ||
| Modern Art | ||
| ARTS 183 | Basic Drawing | 3 |
| Mathematics Gen. Ed. Requirement | 3 | |
| Credit Hours | 15 | |
| Third Semester | ||
| GRPH 251 | InDesign and Typography | 3 |
| Choose one of the following: | 3 | |
| Art From Prehistory to Middle Ages | ||
| Art From Renaissance to Modern World | ||
| Modern Art | ||
| ARTS 184 | Two-Dimensional Design | 3 |
| Technology Gen. Ed. Requirement | 3 | |
| Social Science Gen. Ed. Requirement | 3 | |
| Credit Hours | 15 | |
| Fourth Semester | ||
| GRPH 281 | Graphics Portfolio | 3 |
| ARTS 186 | Three-Dimensional Design | 3 |
| HIST 191 or SOCI 238 | African-American History or Race and Ethnicity | 3 |
| Lab Science Gen. Ed. Requirement | 4 | |
| Humanities Gen. Ed. Requirement | 3 | |
| Credit Hours | 16 | |
| Total Credit Hours | 60 | |