What is Visual Communication - Design & Technology?
Design & Technology emphasizes creative problem solving and insight into the mix of art, design and technical competence. This program includes a Graphic Design track, a Mixed Media Design track, and a Production Design track, with a core of courses common to all. The core includes general education components essential to a collegiate education and technical courses giving students an introduction to design concepts and computer graphics. In addition to core courses, students will take specialty courses for their selected track.
The Graphic Design track emphasizes several aspects of graphic design and focuses on the development of creative skills and technical skills to design logos, advertising, packaging, and a wide variety of publication materials.
The Mixed Media Design track provides students with a mix of courses within the visual communication program or approved electives that serves the interests and skills of the student. These courses may include web design, animation, printing & graphics production, photography, and video production.
The Production Design track provides students training in the operations of various printing and graphics production equipment, along with finishing and bindery equipment. Students will learn skills to design and produce a wide variety of printed materials, promotional items, and signage; in addition to proper prepress and file preparation procedures.
Students also have a variety of certificates they may earn in the process of completing their AAS degree. These certificates include: Design Assistant, Digital Photography, Graphic Design, Production Design, Mixed Media Design, Screen Printing, Digital Wraps and Entrepreneurial Certificate in Visual Communication.
Prospective employment opportunities are in communication and advertising agencies, news media, printing and signage companies, public relations departments, and other creative services departments and businesses, including web design and video production studios. Students also have many options if they desire to become an entrepreneur in the visual communication field.
All technical courses must be completed with a ‘C’ (2.0) or greater to advance in all Visual Communication programs.
What are my career choices?
- News Media
- Advertising Agencies
- Graphic Design Studios
- Printing and Signage Companies
- Web Design and Video Production Studios
- Colleges and Universities
- Other Creative Services Departments
What are my degree, diploma or certificate options?
- Design and Technology- Associates
- Graphic Design - Diploma
- Certificates are available for:
- Design Assistant
- Digital Photography
- Digital Wraps
- Entrepreneurial Certificate in Visual Communication
- Graphic Design
- Mixed Media Design
- Production Design Assistant
- Screen Printing
How Much can I make, and Where can I take Classes?
The great thing about KCTCS is that we have colleges and campuses around the state. Choose a college, and you'll find more information on the program and the salaries for careers in the area.
