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Your Curriculum

Graphic Design

Limited Entry, Associate of Applied Science Degree Program (2006-2007)*

*Information regarding the requirements for this Limited Entry program is available by accessing the Admission Requirements page.

MHCC Faculty Advisor:
Christina Maier: 503-491-6992 - Room AC1375 Chris.Maier@mhcc.edu

Graphic Design is a creative process that utilizes art and technology to communicate ideas. By orchestrating color, type, symbols, and images, the graphic designer creates and manages the production of pieces designed to interest, inform, sell or persuade a specific audience.

While graphic design has traditionally meant the design of printed material, it also includes signage and architectural graphics, and with computer technology it encompasses film, television, video, animation and interactivity. Packaging, bookcovers, newspapers and magazines, posters, corporate logos, computer-based interactive multimedia presentations and web pages are just a few examples of work created by graphic designers.

As professionals, graphic designers combine aesthetic judgment with project management skills to develop overall communications strategies for their clients. When a design concept is implemented, graphic designers work with illustrators, photographers, producers, editors, programmers and printers to complete a compelling design that communicates the client’s message effectively.

Manual dexterity is essential. So is the ability to respond to visual problems in a positive, creative and logical manner. Good oral and written communication skills are important for understanding instructions and clearly communicating thoughts and concepts. Macintosh computer skills and fluency in every type of graphics software are required at all levels of employment.

Graphic design students benefit from the use of the college’s well-equipped, Macintosh computer labs where they learn the latest image-editing, illustration, page layout, and web page design tools. As members of Integrated Media, students will collaborate with television, radio and photography majors as they explore the relationship between words, images, sound, motion, time and space in a variety of digital media. Learning these related modes of communication opens doors in the world of television, film, advertising, marketing, web design and creative services.

MHCC offers a two-year Associate of Applied Science degree in graphic design. It is a limited-entry program. Applicants are admitted on a space available basis after admission criteria have been met and a review conducted by faculty. Because the core courses are sequential, students may start in the fall term only. Transfer students may be able to enroll in specific courses winter and spring terms with instructor permission. To be fully admitted into the program, students must apply for and be accepted into the program for the following fall term. Students interested in this program should contact the Graphic Design program advisor at 503-491-6992 to discuss curricula, employment opportunities, aptitude, etc. Application Packets are available online. Once you have read the application materials, you can call 503-491-7165 if you have questions about the admission process.

1 Students must complete either: 1) WR121 and WR122 or 2) WR101 and WR102.
2 Students may not use demonstrated proficiency on the College Placement Test (CPT) to satisfy this requirement.

‡ See pages 7-10 of the printed catalog.