Art and Design: Graphic Design

Program Overview

Art and Design: Graphic Design at Cerritos College

Associate of Arts

The Graphic Design Program at Cerritos College is designed to prepare students for entry-level positions in graphic design related fields such as advertising, graphic design, illustration, digital imaging and motion graphics. The core learned disciplines are the principles of design, an understanding of the visual elements, exposure to art and design history, conceptual visual problem solving, and the production of a portfolio using industry-standard software and processes.

Salary, Growth and Careers

Salary

Careers associated with this program have a salary range from $46,000 to $203,000 with an average salary of $115,000.

Growth

Career opportunities for this program are expected to grow nationwide from 2022 to 2032.

Careers

• Web Developers and Digital Interface Designers
  • Education Level: Bachelor's degree
  • Job Growth: +12.8%
  • Average Salary: $89,000
  • Salary Range: $46,000 - $158,000
• Art Directors
  • Education Level: Bachelor's degree
  • Job Growth: +6.1%
  • Average Salary: $148,000
  • Salary Range: $99,000 - $175,000
• Art, Drama, and Music Teachers, Postsecondary
  • Education Level: Master's degree
  • Job Growth: +3.2%
  • Average Salary: $127,000
  • Salary Range: $79,000 - $162,000
• Artists and Related Workers, All Other
  • Education Level: No formal educational credential
  • Job Growth: +3.4%
  • Average Salary: $95,000
  • Salary Range: $66,000 - $108,000
• Graphic Designers
  • Education Level: High school diploma or equivalent
  • Job Growth: +3.3%
  • Average Salary: $79,000
  • Salary Range: $53,000 - $96,000
• Software Developers and Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers
  • Education Level: Bachelor's degree
  • Job Growth: +22.2%
  • Average Salary: $136,000
  • Salary Range: $78,000 - $203,000
• Special Effects Artists and Animators
  • Education Level: Bachelor's degree
  • Job Growth: +8.2%
  • Average Salary: $133,000
  • Salary Range: $97,000 - $162,000

Education levels are meant to represent what is typical for entry into the career, based on data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Program Outline

• The program focuses on teaching the principles of design, visual elements, art and design history, conceptual problem-solving, and industry-standard software and processes.
• Students will create a portfolio demonstrating their skills and knowledge throughout the program.

Outline:

• The program provides a comprehensive curriculum covering various aspects of graphic design:
• Freehand Drawing (ART 110):
Develops basic drawing skills and techniques.
• Two-Dimensional Design (ART 120): Explores the fundamentals of design principles and elements.
• Three-Dimensional Design (ART 121): Introduces the principles of three-dimensional design and form.
• Computer Graphics with Adobe Illustrator (ART 186): Teaches the basics of vector graphics using Adobe Illustrator.
• Lettering and Typography (ART 182A): Covers the principles of typography and lettering.
• Design for Digital Publishing (ART 188): Prepares students for creating digital publications.
• Photoshop/Digital Imaging (ART 192): Introduces the fundamentals of digital image manipulation using Photoshop.
• The program also includes general education courses in English composition, U.S. history or government, mathematics, health and wellness, and natural sciences.
• Additionally, students can choose elective courses to further customize their learning experience.

Assessment:

• The program utilizes various assessment methods to evaluate student learning, including:
• Assignments and projects:
Students create projects and assignments throughout the program, showcasing their understanding of design principles and software skills.
• Exams and quizzes: Regular exams and quizzes assess students' knowledge of design concepts and theories.
• Portfolio reviews: Students receive feedback on their portfolio development and progress.
• Class participation: Active participation in class discussions and activities contributes to overall assessment.

Teaching:

• The program employs experienced faculty with expertise in various design fields.
• The teaching methods include lectures, hands-on exercises, critiques, and individual guidance.
• The program fosters a collaborative learning environment where students can learn from each other and receive personalized feedback.

Careers:

• The program prepares students for entry-level positions in various design-related fields, such as:
• Graphic designer
• Web designer
• Illustrator
• Digital media artist
• Art director
• Marketing specialist
• User interface designer
• The program also provides a strong foundation for further education in design.

Other:

• The program offers a micro-credential in Adobe Illustrator.
• Students can participate in internships and other professional development opportunities.
• The program encourages students to showcase their work in exhibitions and competitions.