Option 2: Graphic Arts Design and Technology Degree – Package Design

Program Overview

This 61 credit-hour program is designed to prepare students for a wide range of employment opportunities in the graphic arts industry. This degree provides a well-rounded foundation of knowledge and skills to prepare students for new jobs as well as provide career advancement opportunities. The curriculum includes current and proprietary application instruction with a focus on creative package design techniques. Emphasis is on the packaging industry, including a complete understanding of print production for a variety of products. All students in the program complete a required sequence of classes and then select this package design specialty to be employable in this visual communication industry or transfer to a 4 year program.

This sequenced degree plan is one of four options that students may pursue to earn the Graphic Arts Design and Technology Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree. While there are multiple specializations, this particular degree can be awarded only once.

Program Requirements

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The mathematics requirement for this degree can be met with Math Competency. See Math Competency options for information. Students who use Math Competency to meet the mathematics requirement must complete an additional three credit-hour AAS General Education elective. See full list of AAS General Education electives.

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Students need to choose a course to meet this requirement that also fulfills the World Cultures and Diversity graduation requirement. See full list of World Cultures and Diversity courses.

Program Learning Outcomes

Students who successfully complete this degree will be able to:

• demonstrate strong visual skills through graphic design.
• demonstrate strong typography ability and principles of design knowledge.
• utilize all graphic and packaging applications in layout and design.
• comprehend the graphic arts workflow from design through print and finishing.
• comprehend color management requirements in a graphic arts workflow.
• create acceptable print-ready digital graphic files using industry standard preflight criteria for packaging industry.
• demonstrate basic knowledge and procedures in prepress, pressroom and bindery operations for packaging.
• exhibit good communication skills to participate in a visual communications industry.