Program Overview

Introduction to Graphic Communication Program

The Graphic Communication program at Cal Poly offers a comprehensive curriculum that covers the technical, creative, and business aspects of the graphic communication industry. The program is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in the principles and practices of graphic communication, including design, production, and management.

Program Overview

The Graphic Communication program is a four-year undergraduate program that leads to a Bachelor of Science degree. The program is accredited by the Accrediting Council for Collegiate Graphic Communications (ACCGC) and is recognized as one of the top graphic communication programs in the country.

Curriculum

The curriculum for the Graphic Communication program includes a combination of required and elective courses that provide students with a broad-based education in graphic communication. The required courses include:

• Introduction to Graphic Communication (GRC 101)
• Orientation to Graphic Communication (GRC 102)
• Digital Publishing Systems (GRC 201)
• Digital File Preparation and Workflow (GRC 203)
• Introduction to Contemporary Print Management and Manufacturing (GRC 204)
• Materials for Graphic Communication Applications (GRC 211)
• Binding and Finishing Processes (GRC 224)
• Digital and Offset Printing Methods (GRC 328)
• Color Management (GRC 331)
• Consumer Packaging (GRC 337)
• Web Development and Content Management (GRC 338)
• Web Design and Production (GRC 339)
• Front-end Web Development (GRC 340)
• Packaging Graphics Technology and Design (GRC 347)
• Specialty Imaging and Graphics Technologies (GRC 357)
• Marketing and Sales Management for Print and Digital Media (GRC 361)
• Applied Graphic Communication Practices (GRC 372)
• Senior Project - Independent Study (GRC 461)
• Senior Project (GRC 462)

Elective Courses

The program also offers a range of elective courses that allow students to specialize in specific areas of interest, such as:

• Digital Photography and Motion Graphics (GRC 301)
• Advanced Digital Typography (GRC 322)
• Managing Quality in Graphic Communication (GRC 320)
• Tangible Interactive Product Development (GRC 329)
• Book Design Technology (GRC 439)
• Magazine Design Technology (GRC 440)
• Mobile User Experience (GRC 429)
• User Experience Methods for Digital Innovation (GRC 433)
• Advanced Consumer Packaging (GRC 437)

Graduate Program

The Graphic Communication program also offers a graduate program that leads to a Master of Science degree. The graduate program is designed to provide advanced education and training in graphic communication, with a focus on research and development.

Research Areas

The Graphic Communication program has a strong research focus, with faculty and students working on a range of projects in areas such as:

• Printed Electronics and Functional Imaging
• Active Packaging and Security Printing
• Digital Printing and Variable Data Publishing
• Web Development and Content Management
• Consumer Packaging and Branding
• User Experience and Human-Computer Interaction

Facilities and Equipment

The Graphic Communication program has state-of-the-art facilities and equipment, including:

• Graphic Communication Laboratory
• Digital Printing and Imaging Laboratory
• Web Development and Content Management Laboratory
• Packaging and Branding Laboratory
• User Experience and Human-Computer Interaction Laboratory

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the Graphic Communication program have a wide range of career opportunities in the graphic communication industry, including:

• Graphic Designer
• Digital Printer
• Web Developer
• Packaging Designer
• Brand Manager
• Marketing Manager
• Sales Manager
• Production Manager
• Quality Control Manager

Admission Criteria

Admission to the Graphic Communication program is competitive, and applicants must meet the following criteria:

• High school diploma or equivalent
• Minimum GPA of 3.0
• SAT or ACT scores
• Letters of recommendation
• Personal statement

Tuition Fees

The tuition fees for the Graphic Communication program vary depending on the student's residency status and other factors. For more information, please contact the university's admissions office.

Conclusion

The Graphic Communication program at Cal Poly is a comprehensive and well-respected program that provides students with a strong foundation in the principles and practices of graphic communication. With a range of undergraduate and graduate degree options, state-of-the-art facilities and equipment, and a strong research focus, the program is ideal for students who want to pursue a career in the graphic communication industry.