Graphic Design Technology is a highly competitive and rewarding career for those with a talent and/or interest in the graphic arts. Graphic Design Technology does not focus on the fine arts of painting and art history, but on the integration of technology with graphic design to train students to create communication materials (stationery, brochures, annual reports, newspaper layout, etc.) for print production. Within two years of training, individuals develop creatively and technically as they learn skills in photography, illustration, design and pre-press production. Students become task-oriented by learning to meet deadlines, problem-solve and work efficiently. Our graduates are expected to be self-motivated and apply the skills they learn in the classroom outside of instruction time to strengthen their abilities. The Graphic Design Technology program prepares students for entry-level positions in the graphic design technology industry. Students work on their own Macintosh laptops to complete coursework, so there is never a need to wait for an available computer. Owning individual laptops also allows each student to be mobile and work from anywhere at any time. Students begin with foundation-level work that includes learning about Macintosh technology, basic drawing, print process theories, technical computer illustration and basic design theories. They progress to higher levels of design theory and application, advanced illustration, photo manipulation using image editing software and page layout skills in a page layout computer application. Class curriculum consists of lectures, demonstrations, hands-on application, industry tours and lab work. Students are guided in how to behave and work as a professional in our industry. Instructors teach from real-world experience and as a result students are prepared to produce industry-level design work that meets technical criteria for print production, as well as integrate professional expectations of meeting deadlines and being organized. The final result of a student's study is a comprehensive portfolio that showcases the student's technical and design skills. With the student's skills and portfolio, the job market is open to receiving him or her as an efficient graphic design technology employee. The Graphic Design Certificate is designed as a "fast track" for students with past work experience in the creative industry and for students who have an advanced degree in a similar area of study, both of whom wish to polish existing skills or add to their skill set in the graphics industry.

1. Demonstrate the ability to produce visual concepts using drawing and computer methods.
2. Interpret, speak, write, and edit the language of advertising, graphic design, digital graphic technology and print production.
3. Demonstrate entry-level industry proficiency utilizing multiple methods for producing graphic output.
4. Demonstrate the ability to prepare/check digital files for press.
5. Demonstrate understanding of offset print production.
6. Apply theories of design, color, and typography.
7. Demonstrate professionalism, i.e., participation in classroom activities, personal accountability, meeting deadlines.
8. Produce personal portfolio of sample work.

The opportunities in the Graphic Design Technology field are vast. Employers might include magazine publishers, product packaging company, newspapers, advertising agencies, design studios, printing companies, screen-printing shops, animation/comic illustrators, sign companies, photography studios, in-house design/marketing departments (such as at banks, insurance companies, technology companies, hospitals, manufacturers, etc). We also train students thoroughly on the methods of starting your own freelance design business that secures the possibility of working when a job market might not be accepting new employees. Many of our graduates do start their own freelance business and are successful entrepreneurs.

• Gainful employment report

The College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools, (800) 621-7440, 30 North LaSalle Street, Suite 2400, Chicago, IL 60602-2504.