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Integrated Media:
Graphic Design

Restricted Entry,
Associate of Applied Science Degree Program (2008-2009)*

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

MHCC Faculty Adviser
Christina Maier: 503-491-6992 - Room AC 1375 Chris.Maier@mhcc.edu

Students looking for an outlet for their creative ideas will find that the Graphic Design option includes new opportunities to gain broad digital media expertise. Video, audio and photography content have been added to the print and web design training we’re well known for offering. We’re confident that employers will value a true digital media creator.

The 12 Integrated Media core courses are complemented by six Graphic Design option courses that will prepare student for career paths within the creative services field including but not limited to art direction, project management, interactive media, digital production art, graphic design and publishing. Graduates of this program will be qualified to work as:

• Interactive Web Designer
• Publication Designer
• Graphic Design Assistant
• Digital Pre-press Technician
• Web Graphics Producer
• Junior Art Director
• Marketing Assistant
• Multimedia Designer

Graphic designers solve business and communication problems by providing expert advice and strategic creative services to clients to help them succeed in a competitive environment. The impact and results of the work will be measured by multiple sets of criteria—both yours and the client’s. Each project must meet high aesthetic standards, but it must also meet specific business objectives. Most professional design assignments span several different media such as print, online or broadcast. This means that most assignments require a multi-disciplinary team. Projects evolve through a process of multiple design directions and refinements, so you need to be very comfortable with the give-and-take of close collaboration. Unlike fine art, the focus of graphic design is not self-expression or the exploration of personal issues.

This curriculum covers the basics of graphic design with an equal focus on printed solutions and web site design. We incorporate many approaches to instruction including: individual and group critiques, collaborations with other students in Integrated Media (Broadcasting, Video and Digital Photography) and over a dozen sponsored design projects for real clients in the second year. Internships are strongly recommended and often prepare students for immediate employment upon graduation. Students will create several portfolios of their design work: a traditional print portfolio, a web-based portfolio and a PDF portfolio to send clients and prospective employers via e-mail.

Students’ portfolio projects include typography, editorial design, corporate identity programs, packaging design, multimedia presentations, web site designs, illustrations, posters, brochures and magazines. You’ll understand how design processes and skills are applied to printing, online media and other distribution methods found in the creative services industry.

1 Students may not use demonstrated proficiency on the College Placement Test (CPT) to satisfy this requirement.

‡ See pages 7-10 of the printed catalog.