Graphic Arts Technology
Associate in Applied Science Degree/Creative Design Option
Program Coordinator Patty Bruner
847.925.6448
pbruner@harpercollege.edu
Avanté, Room Y103h
http://dept.harpercollege.edu/graphicarts/
The Harper College Graphic Arts Technology program offers
students four associate degree options in the graphic arts field—
creative design, package design, web design or
print production. Students can complete a first year core
sequence of classes and then select one of the four options
for the second year coursework.
Creative Design
Program Outcomes
Graphic designers plan, analyze and create visual solutions to
communication problems. They find the most effective way to convey
messages in print and electronic media using color, type, illustration,
photography, animation and various print and layout techniques.
Graphic designers develop the overall layout and production design
of magazines, newspapers, journals, corporate reports and other
publications. They produce promotional displays, signage, packaging
and marketing brochures for products and services, design logos
for products and businesses and develop material for Web pages,
interactive media and multimedia projects.
Students who successfully complete this program will be able to:
The Harper College program is designed to prepare students for
a wide range of employment opportunities in the graphic design
industry. It provides a foundation of knowledge and skills to prepare
students for new jobs, as well as providing career advancement
opportunities. Introduction to the latest computer software and
production techniques is included in the curriculum. Emphasis is
on digital design, visual techniques and production, in line with
the needs of the graphic design industry. Producing a professional
portfolio and resume for employment completes this program.
Classes for this 64 credit-hour program are offered during the fall,
spring and summer semesters.
• demonstrate strong visual skills through graphic design.
• demonstrate strong typography ability and principles of
design knowledge.
• utilize all graphic 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.
• demonstrate basic knowledge and procedures in prepress,
pressroom and bindery operations.
• exhibit good communication skills to participate in a visual
communications industry.
Career Opportunities
Many graphic design jobs are high tech, highly skilled, creative
and innovative. Positions include art director, creative director,
graphic designer, Web designer, desktop publisher, photographer,
illustrator and computer graphic artist.
For a complete overview to all related positions and job market and
salary trends, please visit the following Web sites:
• http://www.graphiccommcentral.org/
• http://dept.harpercollege.edu/graphicarts/resources.html
harpercollege.edu
Rev. 2/2016
Graphic Arts Technology
(Sample Schedule)
Associate in Applied Science Degree*/Creative Design Option
FIRST YEAR
First Semester
ART 121
Design 1.............................................................3
ENG101 Composition.......................................................3
GRA 101
Introduction to Graphic Arts Technology............3
GRA 102
Graphic Arts Desktop Publishing.......................3
GRA 103
Digital Imaging I................................................. 3
15
Second Semester
ENG102 Composition.......................................................3
GRA 105
Color Management............................................3
GRA 112
Digital Illustration I.............................................. 3
GRA 130
Introduction to Photography...............................2
Mathematics elective1.................................................................. 3
Social Science elective2✦............................................................. 3
17
SECOND YEAR
First Semester
GRA 111 Press Operations...............................................3
GRA 120 Graphic Design I................................................3
GRA 229 Page Layout.......................................................3
Humanities or Social Science elective3........................................3
GRA 145 WordPress and Mobile Technologies4 OR
WEB 150
Web Development 14......................................... 3
15
SECOND YEAR
CREATIVE DESIGN SPECIALTY: Second Semester
GRA 113
Digital Imaging II................................................3
GRA 131 Digital Photography...........................................3
GRA 220 Graphic Design II...............................................3
GRA 221 Graphic Portfolio Design....................................2
GRA elective5 ...........................................................................3
MKT 245 Principles of Marketing....................................... 3
17
Total Required Credits 64
1
2
3
4
5
A competency test, available in the Assessment and Testing Center, may be utilized to meet the mathematics
requirement. Students who utilize the competency test to meet the mathematics requirement must complete an
additional three-hour graphic arts course. Please consult with the program coordinator for recommended courses.
One 3-credit course from the Social Sciences electives for the AAS degree is required.
✦ This course meets the World Cultures and Diversity graduation requirement.
One 3-credit course from the Humanities OR Social Sciences electives for the AAS degree is required.
An ART course from the Humanities AAS electives is recommended from the humanities category for the Creative
Design Area of Study.
✦ This course must meet the World Cultures and Diversity graduation requirement.
For students choosing the Web Design Path, they will take the second of the two course options from the third
semester: GRA 145 or WEB 150
Graphic Arts Electives: GRA113, GRA131, GRA202, GRA213, GRA214, GRA220, GRA221, GRA222, GRA230,
GRA231, GRA 232, GRA 299, GRA 145, WEB 150
Harper College, 1200 West Algonquin Road, Palatine, IL 60067-7398
Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information in this publication. However, the information is subject to change without notice and final career decisions are the responsibility of the student.
Harper College is committed to the policy that all persons shall have equal access to its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, sex, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status or sexual orientation. 15518 AQ 2/10