Program Overview

Communication Design Program

Overview

The Communication Design program at New York City College of Technology provides students with a solid foundation in the theory and current practices of the communication design profession, as well as a grounding in general education. The program does not require a portfolio or prior experience in art and design techniques, but it offers a challenging experience for those with previous experience.

Degree Designation

The program leads to an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree in Communication Design.

Program Description

The curriculum emphasizes a strong foundation in design principles, strategic thinking, and emerging technologies, enabling students to develop innovative solutions across various courses, including figure drawing, design and color, typography, photography, and web design. The program prepares students to continue on to upper-level coursework and specialization in the design field.

Learning Outcomes

• Think creatively to combine or synthesize existing ideas or images in original ways.
• Organize and interpret complex data.
• Research and evaluate information sources.
• Prepare and deliver oral communication that promotes knowledge and understanding.
• Value cultural diversity and demonstrate the capacity to collaborate.

Admission Information

Placement in the associate in applied science program requires a high school diploma or GED. While not necessary, it is desirable for entering students to have taken prior courses in typography, layout, design, and drawing or painting.

Advanced Standing Credits

Transfer students may request an application for advanced standing, which is reviewed individually. Credit is granted for courses taken at other colleges if they are considered equivalent to those offered at New York City College of Technology.

Articulation Agreements

The department has articulation agreements with specific departments, degrees, and programs at Bronx Community College, Borough of Manhattan Community College, and Kingsborough Community College.

Accreditation

New York City College of Technology is an accredited institutional member of the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD).

Additional Costs

• Textbooks: $400
• Professional Tools: $500
• Materials Fees: $40
• Supplies: $600
• Portfolio Preparation: $150

Requirements

General Education

• English Composition: Complete at least 2 courses.
• Mathematical and Quantitative Reasoning: Complete at least 1 course.
• Life and Physical Sciences: Complete at least 1 course.
• Flexible Common Core: Complete at least 6 courses, with at least one course in each of the five flexible core areas and an additional sixth course in one of them.

Required Courses in the Major

• COMD 1100 - Graphic Design Principles I
• COMD 1127 - Type and Media
• COMD 1123 - Foundation Drawing
• COMD 1162 - Raster and Vector Graphics
• COMD 1200 - Graphic Design Principles II
• COMD 1112 - Digital Media Foundations
• COMD 1257 - Typographic Design
• COMD 1340 - Photography I
• COMD 2300 - Communication Design I
• COMD 2320 - Introduction to Video
• COMD 1233 - Figure Drawing
• COMD 2400 - Communication Design II
• COMD 2451 - Web Design I

Art History

Complete at least two art history courses, including ARTH 3311 - The History of Graphic Design.

Overall Requirements

• Complete at least 20 credits of liberal arts and sciences.
• Complete a minimum of 30 credits in residence at New York City College of Technology, with at least 15 credits from required courses in the major.
• Earn at least 60 credits.

Degree Map Narrative

A recommended semester-by-semester plan for full-time students is provided, outlining the courses to be taken each semester to fulfill the program requirements.