Graphic Design and Printing

This program prepares students for a wide variety of careers in graphic design and commercial printing. This includes instruction in graphic design, production graphics, electronic prepress, digital printing, offset printing, screen printing, finishing, bindery, and business management, using the latest equipment and software available within a live, production facility. Classes are structured to give strong academic and hands-on experience for entry into the graphic communication industry. 

Program Learning Outcomes

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

  • Demonstrate the ability to communicate effectively with clients and co-workers.
  • Demonstrate ethical, economic, civic, and moral responsibility.
  • Compare print-focused and graphic communication techniques in successful marketing and promotional strategies, including successful elements in effective advertisement practices.
  • Evaluate and assign the proper ink and substrate to a variety of printed projects.
  • Calculate costs of paper and ink to offer value and alternatives to a client.
  • Complete a preflight and prepress checklist and prepare a project for print.
  • Demonstrate proper set-up, safe operation, and clean-up of printing press equipment.
  • Demonstrate the ability to estimate costs, document materials and time spent on production, and an ability to meet deadlines.
  • Create and print a project suitable for a portfolio that demonstrates effective design and proper production technique.

Graphic Design Emphasis

34 units

Semester 1 Units
ADM-1 3
ADM-2A  2
ADM-2B 2
Semester 2 Units
ADM-71A 3
ADM-77A 3
ADM-62 3
Semester 3 Units
ADM-63A 3
ADM-85A 3
ADM-55 3
Semester 4 Units
ADM-70 3
ADM-84A 3
ADM-63B 3
or  
ADM-71B 3
or  
ADM-77B 3

Commercial Printing Emphasis

34 units

Semester 1 Units
ADM-1 3
ADM-2A 2
ADM-2B 2
Semester 2 Units
ADM-71A 3
ADM-77A 3
ADM-85A 3
Semester 3 Units
ADM-63A 3
ADM-84A 3
ADM-55 3
Semester 4 Units
ADM-70 3
ADM-84B 3
ADM-85B 3

Cross-Discipline Emphasis

34 units

Semester 1 Units
ADM-1 3
ADM-2A 2
ADM-2B 2
Semester 2 Units
ADM-71A 3
ADM-77A 3
ADM-85A 3
Semester 3 Units
ADM-63A 3
ADM-84A 3
ADM-55 3
Semester 4 Units
ADM-70  3
Any combination of 6 units from the following 
courses: ADM-67, ADM-68A, ADM-68B, ADM-69, ADM-74A, 
ADM-74B, ADM-200, ART-22, ART-23, ART-36A, ART-36B, 
FTV-64A, MKT-40, PHO-20
6

Associate of Science Degree

The Associate of Science Degree in Graphic Design and Printing will be awarded upon completion of the degree requirements, including general education and other graduation requirements as described in the college catalog.

This Program Pathway will allow a full-time student to complete this program in 12-18 months. For students who require a part time pathway, please see a counselor for more information.