Program Overview

Introduction to the Graphic Communications Management Program

The Graphic Communications Management program at Appalachian State University is a vibrant and growing sector of the economy. With the Bachelor of Science (BS) in Graphic Communications Management - Print/Packaging Production, students will utilize their creative streak in a way that prepares them for a career as a graphic designer, project manager, or creative director.

Program Details

Location

The program is located on the Boone campus.

Application Deadlines

Important dates and deadlines for undergraduate admissions are available.

Program Description

The program immerses students in a wide variety of processes and methods of production, including offset lithography, flexography, digital printing systems, variable data printing, and wide format printing, in addition to the design and production of packages that protect and promote products in channels of distribution.

Department and College

The program is part of the Department of Art and the College of Fine and Applied Arts.

Courses and Minors

Courses

Students pursuing this major explore:

• Packaging Design and Production
• Digital Printing Systems
• Advanced Printing and Finishing
• More

Minors

A minor in General Business is required.

Transferring Credits

App State has a credit transfer process, and students can use the Transfer Equivalency Course Search tool to determine how their courses may transfer.

Related Programs

A related program is the Graphic Communications Management (BS) – Cross Media Production.

General Education

The General Education Program at App State provides a foundational skill set that will prepare students for any career, with courses in history, natural and social sciences, and humanities.

Accelerated Master’s

Students can begin their graduate studies as undergraduates and earn their master’s degree in as little as one year.

Careers

Possible careers for graduates include:

• Pre-press Manager
• Post-press Manager
• Digital Press Manager
• Scheduler
• Estimator
• Art Director
• Account Manager
• Vice President of Sales Some of these roles may require education beyond a bachelor’s degree.

Career Information Resource

The Career Development Center at App State provides services such as resume reviews, career coaching, job and internship search assistance, and other tools for achieving life and professional success.

Alumni Profiles

Alumni have gone on to work in various roles, including:

• Erin Donohue ’17, who secured full-time employment with South Carolina’s Wikoff Color Corporation after her summer internship.
• Taylor Coggins ’12, who works as a project manager for Salem One, a printing, direct marketing, packaging, and logistics company headquartered in Winston-Salem.

University Accolades

App State has earned a Research 2 Carnegie Classification, recognizing the university’s high research activity and doctorate production. It has also been recognized by U.S. News & World Report as a top three school for innovation and the high quality of its undergraduate instruction for eight consecutive years, and as a ‘Best College’ for value by Money.com.