Overview and Award Outcomes
Overview
Graphic design by definition is the applied art of designing any information, thought, idea or message for print and digital media. Graphic designers skillfully master advanced technology to transform an idea or concept. The transformation procedure is an integral part of the print or digital media production process. Graphic designers have an inherent ability to create by utilizing basic design principles and color theory; applying typographical knowledge and techniques; capturing digital graphic images; and manipulating photos and illustrations through various industry standard software and hardware components. The finished design may be delivered via the printed piece or web.
The field of graphic design is an exciting and challenging career choice, a choice that gives the individual the power to be an effective participant in the world of media communications. This degree is also an excellent stepping-stone for those students who wish to pursue a four-year degree at some point in the future.
Award Outcomes
Utilize the elements and principles of design
Integrate the use of industry standard technology and design
Develop visual solutions to communicate client's needs
Exhibit proficient use of technology workflow
Produce clean proofs and prints for press-ready documents
Demonstrate the roles and functions of working on a team
Develop a creative portfolio of work that demonstrates skills as a designer and visual communicator
Career Opportunities
Graphic design is an ever-changing and evolving professional career with many occupational categories and opportunities. One might find employment in a production environment, customer service, customer support, sales, creative production, consulting or training. Occupational titles include but are not limited to creative designer, graphic designer, print production artist, web designer, web producer, web developer, production artist, advertising artist, art typographer. Common working environments might include design or production, in a corporation, agency, advertising or marketing setting, printing company, or graphics service bureau.
Program Requirements
Technical Studies Required 51 Credits
General Education Required 12 Credits
| Choose one of the following: | |
| COMM1250 | Interpersonal Communication | 3 |
| COMM1260 | Small Group Communication | 3 |
| COMM1280 | Public Speaking | 3 |
| | |
| Choose one of the following: | |
| ENGL1070 | Technical Writing | 3 |
| ENGL1100 | Writing and Research | 4 |
| ENGL1300 | Introduction to Creative Writing | 3 |
| | |
| Choose any course from MnTC Goal Area 2 | 3 |
| | |
| Choose any course from MnTc Goal Area 5 | 3 |
General Education Elective 3 Credits
Choose credits from Hennepin Technical College's Minnesota Transfer Curriculum (MnTC) general education courses.
Technical Studies Elective 3 Credits
Any Audio Production (ARSP), Information Technology (ITEC), Graphic Design (MGDP) or Interactive Design and Video Production (MMVP) course that is not required for this award may be used to satisfy an elective requirement.
Recommended:
| MGDP1120 | Introduction to Digital Photography | 2 |
| MGDP2215 | Graphic Design Internship | 1 - 12 |
Total Associate in Applied Science Degree Credits 69
Semester Sequence
Offered at Brooklyn Park Only
Summer Semester
| Choose one of the following: | |
| COMM1250 | Interpersonal Communication | 3 |
| COMM1260 | Small Group Communication | 3 |
| COMM1280 | Public Speaking | 3 |
| | |
| Choose one course from MnTC Goal Area 2 | 3 |
Fourth Semester
| MGDP2030 | Packaging and Display Advertising | 3 |
| MGDP2200 | Design Portfolio | 3 |
| | |
| Technical Studies Electives | 3 |
| | |
| Choose one course from MnTC Goal Area 5 | 3 |
Technical Studies Electives
Any Audio Production (ARSP), Information Technology (ITEC), Graphic Design (MGDP) or Interactive Design and Video Production (MMVP) course that is not required for this award may be used to satisfy an elective requirement.
Recommended:
| MGDP1120 | Introduction to Digital Photography | 2 |
| MGDP2215 | Graphic Design Internship | 1 - 12 |
Choose a Total of: 3 Credits
General Education Electives
A complete list of Minnesota Transfer Curriculum (MnTC) courses and Goal Areas that can be used to meet General Education requirements can be found at www.hennepintech.edu. The same course cannot satisfy more than one MnTC Goal Area requirement.
Choose a Total of: 3 Credits
MnTC Goal Area 2
MnTC Goal Area 5
Graduation (69 Credits)
Semester listings reflect the recommended sequence. Due to circumstances beyond our control, the information herein is subject to change without notice.
4/6/2023 : BP 1504 / EP