• About the Program (CIP Code: 50.0402)

    Graphic Design students will learn all the basic skills in visual communication: color theory, design, advertising, illustration, air-brushing, typography, packaging, multi-page publication, digital imagery, layout, and electronic pre-press. This course will focus on developing creativity; increasing knowledge in all aspects of design including technical skills and problem solving skills; producing an artist's portfolio; and practicing the appropriate interviewing skills. The PC software programs of Adobe InDesign, Adobe Photoshop, and Adobe Illustrator are utilized throughout the two-year course. The pairing of completing the required training and developing an artist's portfolio to display learned skills enables students to further their education, and pursue entry level commercial art positions with advertising agencies, magazines, newspapers, and corporate communication departments.

    Skills:

    Drawing Techniques
    Color Theory
    Illustration
    Animation
    Air-brushing
    Desktop Publishing
    Digital Photography
    Photo Manipulation
    Graphic Design

    Recommended High School Courses:

    English/Communications
    Mathematics - Basic Math, Algebra I and II, Geometry
    Computer Basics
    Visual Arts

    Certifications:

    Industry Recognized/Providers

    • Adobe Certified Associate-Visual Communication Using Adobe Illustrator/Certiport
    • Adobe Certified Associate-Visual Communication Using Adobe Photoshop/Certiport
    • Adobe Certified Associate-Graphic Design & Illustration Using Adobe Illustration/Certiport
    • Adobe Certified Associate-Print & Design Media Publication Using Adobe Indesign/Certiport
    • OSHA CareerSafe/(OSHA)

     

    BCAVTS Additional and/or Details to Industry Recognized/Providers

    • Adobe Certified Associate (ACA) for Adobe Photoshop CS5 and Adobe Illustrator
    • S/P2 Soft Skills

     

    Accreditations:

    • PrintED

     

    Articulation Agreements:

    The Graphic Design program currently offers advanced placement opportunities with these post-secondary schools:

    • BC3 (Butler County Community College)
    • Douglas Education Center
    • PTC (Pittsburgh Technical College) 


    Upon successful completion of the NOCTI skill and written exams, students may receive six technology credits from Butler County Community College’s Industrial Management Technology program.