Graphic Communications Cluster

Graphic Design Program Description - Two-Year Program The Graphic Design Program provides foundation skills in communication, team building and problem-solving for students preparing for careers in the visual arts. Students maintain performance portfolios throughout their programs. These programs combine electronic art and technology to commuicate ideas. By working with color, type and imagery, the graphic design student produces communication pieces to inform and pursuade a specific audience. Students learn all phases and processes involved in taking an idea from its inception to visual presentation before a client audience. Content Area: Interactive Design (18 weeks) Two Year Rotation/Semesters Computer foundation skills Web design Computer animation Image manipulation application Job readiness Content Area: Layout   Design (18 weeks) Two Year Rotation/Semesters Drawing skills to final computer output Layout and design Typography Computer foundation skills Image manipulation Computer illustration application Job readiness Content Area: Electronic Publishing (18 weeks) Two Year Rotation/Semesters Computer foundation skills Typography Item modification Content modification Text style format Graphic tools Document output Job readiness Content Area: Offset Printing (18 weeks) Two Year Rotation/Semesters Equipment and safety File preparation and film output procedures Film assembly Proofing and platemaking Duplication operations Finishing operations Job readiness Content Area: 3D Animation Pilot (36 weeks) Alternative Year-Two for students who have successfully completed two semesters of Rotation. Available Second Session-Only. Materials Animation Lighting and Rendering Post and video editing Employability skills Computer foundation skills Interface Modeling Helpful Experience   Aptitudes Computer graphics Ability to work under pressure High school classes in math, English and art Keboarding skills Mechanical drawing and/or Auto CAD Career Entry Opportunities Illustrator Graphic artist Printing electronic pre-press operator Printing platemaker Offset film assembler Printing press operator Desktop publisher Web designer Bindery worker Scanner operator Benefits for the College Bound This program provides the student with beneficial skills to use when financing a college education. Upon completion of this program, a student is eligible to receive advanced placement and/or college credit toward an associate degree in visual communications or printing at Ferris State University, Illinois Institute of Art and Northwood University. Credit may be granted based upon competency testing and instructor recommendation.