Graphic Design
Associate in Applied Arts Degree — Downtown Milwaukee Campus
Program code: 10-201-1
This curriculum goes into effect starting with the summer 2008 semester.
This page was last updated in July 2007.
Overview — Graphic Design is an Associate in Applied Arts degree program designed to prepare you with the skills necessary to embark on a career in the exciting world of graphic design. In the carefully structured courses, you will be introduced to a variety of career-related disciplines: design of print- and computer-generated graphics for textbooks, technical manuals, newspapers, magazines, web applications and advertising; and additional applications in design for promotion, point-of-purchase packaging and outdoor advertising. You will learn how to produce a professional portfolio for employment.
Career Outlook — In today’s digital world, there are no geographic limits for employment. Typical job duties include illustration, typesetting, layout and design, signage, corporate identity 3D and multimedia design. Job titles in the industry include art director, creative director, graphic designer, web designer, layout artist, illustrator, production artist, prepress technician, web designer and imaging specialist.
Career Preparation and Expected Learning Outcomes — Successful employment requires visualization skills and imagination. The use of computers in the industry requires moderate keyboard skills. Math, algebra and geometry skills are helpful in this industry, which demands precision and neatness in finished art and presentation. Good communication skills are a plus. Potential employers will expect you to be able to:
- Demonstrate strong visual skills in two- and three-dimensional design concepts
- Execute design solutions using all the principles of design: balance, composition, color, light, texture, line and form
- Exercise knowledge and skill in typography
- Execute illustration using various styles
- Execute layout in various stages from rough concept to comprehensive
- Prepare camera-ready artwork or press-ready electronic files
- Intelligently use computer design hardware and software, including basic file management and network communication
Preparation for Admission — The following are required for admission to the program:
- A high school diploma or GED
- Demonstration of proficiency in basic skills through a course placement assessment
- A portfolio with 10 examples of art and related media
You should have normal color and depth perception, visualization ability, and a well-developed imagination with a talent for visual problem-solving.
This program will transfer to one or more four-year institutions.
Possible Careers:
Art Director
Creative Director
Digital Media Specialist
Graphic Artist
Graphic Designer
Related Programs:
Desktop Publishing and Press Production
Photography
Television and Video Production
Visual Communication/Computer Graphics
For more information, call 414-297-MATC.
Curriculum effective 2008-2009.
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TECHNICAL STUDIES |
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Credits |
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( ) = Semester Order for Full-Time Students |
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(1) |
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COMART-103 |
Design Elements and Principles |
3 |
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(1) |
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COMART-107 |
Digital Imaging: Adobe Photoshop ‡ |
3 |
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(1) |
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COMART-115 |
Typography 1 ‡ |
3 |
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(1) |
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COMART-122 |
Vector Graphics: Adobe Illustrator‡ |
3 |
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(2) |
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COMART-104 |
Design Research and Conception ‡ |
2 |
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(2) |
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COMART-106 |
Graphic Design Trends ‡ |
3 |
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(2) |
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COMART-110 |
Publication Design Using QuarkXpress/InDesign ‡ |
3 |
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(2) |
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COMART-111 |
Advertising Layout ‡ |
3 |
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(3) |
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COMART-109 |
Photographic Art Direction ‡ |
1 |
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(3) |
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COMART-117 |
Packaging and Exhibition Design ‡ |
3 |
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(3) |
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COMART-116 |
Interactive Media Design ‡ |
3 |
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(3) |
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COMART-118 |
Typography 2 |
3 |
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(4) |
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COMART-112 |
Graphic Design Workshop ‡ |
3 |
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(4) |
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COMART-113 |
Media Campaign Development ‡ |
3 |
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(4) |
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COMART-152 |
Digital Portfolio ‡ |
1 |
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(4) |
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COMART-153 |
Portfolio Assessment |
2 |
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GENERAL STUDIES |
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ECON-195 |
Economics |
3 |
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OR |
Any three-credit 200-series ECON course |
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ENG-151 |
Communication Skills 1 ‡ |
3 |
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and ENG-152 |
Communication Skills 2 ‡ |
3 |
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OR |
ENG-201 and any three-credit
200-series ENG or SPEECH course |
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MATH-123 |
Math with Business Applications ‡ |
3 |
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OR |
Any three-credit 200-series MATH course |
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NATSCI-167 |
Science of Technology |
3 |
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OR |
Any three-credit 200-series NATSCI course |
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PSYCH-199 |
Psychology of Human Relations |
3 |
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OR |
Any three-credit 200-series PSYCH course |
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SOCSCI-197 |
Contemporary American Society |
3 |
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OR |
Any three-credit 200-series SOCSCI or HIST course |
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ELECTIVE COURSES: Six Credits Required (Suggestions listed below) |
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COMART-155 |
Advanced Visual Design Applications ‡ |
3 |
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PHYED-210 |
An Active Approach to Wellness and Fitness |
3 |
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PRTG-124 |
Desktop Publishing Adobe InDesign ‡ |
3 |
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TOTAL CREDITS: 69 |
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NOTE: Students who have not been accepted, or have not decided on a program, may begin with GENERAL STUDIES courses, if course prerequisites have been met.
Program curriculum requirements are subject to change.
For course descriptions, times, locations or to register online, visit INFOnline.
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