Graphic Design and Visual Communication

The Graphic Design and Visual Communication Certificate introduces students to some of the fastest growing sectors in the visual communication industry. It will prepare them for further study or for entry-level employment in Graphic Design and related fields. Students will receive hands-on training in many aspects of art and design production, from drawing and typography to computer-assisted design, photography, and digital storytelling. Upon completion, they will gain conceptual knowledge, understanding of the marketplace, and technical tools to produce a diverse portfolio of work.

Since graphic design is the most sought after area of emphasis among students at College of the Redwoods who are engaged in digital-media programs, we believe that we can reasonably project between 7 to 10 completers per year in this program.

This program provides foundational knowledge for students seeking careers in the field of visual communication. It prepares students for further study and enhances professional opportunities in the Design, Advertisement, and Digital Media fields.

It provides knowledge about the role of design in contemporary society and builds aesthetic and technical skills across industry-standard software applications.

This program is designed to provide students with the foundational knowledge and skills necessary to secure gainful employment as graphic design or visual communication professionals. Required courses are grounded in theory, but provide hands-on training in many aspects of art and design production. Courses are sequenced to scaffold student learning in a way that supports attainment of the program learning outcomes.

Program Learning Outcomes:

1. Apply principles of visual communication as they relate toreaching diverse audiences.
2. Demonstrate the ability to develop original concepts, work collaboratively, integrate feedback, and carry projects through the production process to completion. 
3. Apply the principles of color, typography, visual hierarchy, motion, sound, and space across discipline-specific media. 
4. Demonstrate proficiency with software to create a market-specific portfolio of work.