Graphic Design

What Graphic Designers Do

Graphic designers create visual concepts, using computer software or by hand, to communicate ideas that inspire, inform, and captivate consumers. 

Work Environment

Many of these workers are employed in specialized design services, publishing, or advertising, public relations, and related services industries. 

Training Programs at SLCC

SLCC Graphic Communications CC

30 Credits

Students with an aptitude in creative problem solving, drawing, design, photography and/or computer related visual communication should consider this rapidly expanding and competitive field. The Visual Art & Design Department allows students to specialize in the following areas: Animation, Graphic Design, Illustration, Multimedia, Photography, Web Design, and Graphic Communications Technologies.

Students who elect to pursue a Certificate of Completion in Graphic Communications Technologies will prepare themselves for entry level work in the graphic communications industry (printing). In this certificate program students use standard software programs, basic printing techniques, and technical procedures to prepare materials for both traditional publishing (printing) and new digital publishing technologies (tables and digital devices).

SLCC Graphic Communications AS

61 Credits

Students with an aptitude in creative problem solving, drawing, design, photography and/or computer related visual communication should consider this rapidly expanding and competitive field. The Visual Art & Design department allows students to specialize in the following areas: Animation, Game Development, Graphic Communications, Graphic Design, Illustration, Multimedia, Motion Graphics, Photography, and Web Design.

Students who elect to pursue an Associate of Science in Graphic Communications will prepare themselves for transfer to a 4-year college or university and/or entry-level work in the graphic communications industry. Through this degree students use industry standard software applications, basic printing techniques, and technical procedures to prepare materials for both traditional publishing (printing) and new digital publishing technologies (web, tablets and digital devices).


SLCC Graphic Technician CP

675 Clock Hours

In the Graphic Technician program students learn to communicate with employees, customers, and other businesses through printed material, websites, electronic presentations, videos and other related media.  This program is designed to provide the student with a thorough understanding of the skills and visual literacy needed for employment in the graphic design media industry.  The courses will cover visual language, composition, typography, photography, color, and graphic communication.  The Graphic Technician program provides comprehensive training in software applications and skills to prepare students for employment requiring design responsibilities in a variety of organizational settings. 


SLCC Visual Art and Design: Graphic Design Emphasis AAS 

64 Credits

Students who elect to pursue an AAS Degree in Graphic Design will prepare themselves for entry-level work in various applications of visual art, graphic design and advertising. Integral parts of this program, which are necessary for employment in the graphic design field, include design creativity and proficiency in current computer programs.


SLCC Visual Art and Design: Illustration Emphasis AAS  

65 Credits

Students who elect to pursue an AAS Degree in Illustration will prepare themselves for entry level work for traditional and computer illustration. Students who are preparing for this area of specialization should acquire a high level of drawing skill. 


SLCC Visual Art and Design: Multimedia Emphasis AAS 

66-68 Credits

Students who elect to pursue an AAS Degree in Multimedia will prepare themselves for entry-level work using industry applications for authoring multimedia content for diverse delivery mediums, including internet, mobile devices, HDTV content and turn key applications. In addition, students will become adept at using computers to edit sound and video, create 3D graphics, animation and digital artwork, as well as designing/producing printed collateral and developing websites. These technical skills are complimented by courses that will provide the opportunity to acquire solid art and design abilities. Those with a propensity for learning technical concepts and a creative and artistic aptitude will enjoy the exciting field of multimedia. 

Training Programs at UVU

UVU Art and Design AA or AS

61 Credit

Students who elect to earn a bachelor of arts or associate of arts degree are required to complete a foreign language requirement, while those who earn a bachelor of science or associate of science degree have the option to take more electives. All of these degrees allow students to explore a few areas within the department and gain a more well-rounded education in the visual arts. 


UVU Art and Design Graphic Design Emphasis AAS

63 Credit

The Applied Associate in Science is a two-year work-ready degree that helps prepare students for entry level jobs within the Illustration industry. This degree and credits earned can be used to further their studies in a Bachelor of Fine Arts or other programs. 


UVU Art and Design Illustration Emphasis AAS

63 Credit

The Applied Associate in Science is a two-year work-ready degree that helps prepare students for entry level jobs within the Illustration industry. This degree and credits earned can be used to further their studies in a Bachelor of Fine Arts or other programs. 


UVU Digital Communication Technology AAS

64 Credit

Digital Media (DGM) fuses both fundamental theory and practical application in the production of electronically-generated content to be delivered via internet, radio and television, digital cinema, computer games, animation and cinematic visual effects, as well as for emerging technologies such as mobile computing (hand-held computing devices). The curriculum integrates these digital mediums to entertain, educate, and communicate ideas through meaningful human interaction. DGM provides motivated and dedicated students the opportunity to work closely with professionally active faculty members committed to the future of the digital disciplines. Students in Digital Media may earn either a Certificate of Proficiency in Digital Cinema, Associate in Applied Science Degree, or a Bachelor of Science Degree. Areas of emphasis include: Digital Communication Technology, Audio Production, Digital Motion Picture Production, Gaming and Animation, Internet Technologies.