Graphic Design and Rich Media

Earn an Associate Degree in Graphic Design

Take your passion for art and technology and pursue a career in graphic design and rich media. Earn a graphic design associate degree and develop professional skills to work in this dynamic and creative industry.

Graphic design is a vital element of most products and communications. Design is everywhere, from shampoo bottles to book covers to billboards. Companies need professionally designed media to communicate with customers about their brands and products. Publishers of books, magazines and music need designers to make their print and digital materials look polished. Event planners use graphic design in invitations, posters, fliers and slideshows. Advertisers use rich media design to add compelling interactive or three-dimensional elements to digital ads.

Getting a two-year associate degree in graphic design can help you gain the creative, technical and industry knowledge employers are searching for. Learn how to communicate clearly using typography, color, photography and illustrations for display in print, animation and web media. Get in-depth experience using industry-standard software. Learn how to give and receive critiques as you build a portfolio you’ll feel confident about showing to prospective employers. Present your work to local employers during a portfolio review event held each spring at Aims.

If you’re an artistic person who loves creative problem-solving and working with technology, this program will give you the skills you need to pursue an entry-level job in the industry.

Get Hands-on Training in Graphic Design and Rich Media

A variety of organizations need graphic designers to create print and digital designs. Interactive rich media designs that combine audio, 3D effects and other elements to enhance users’ experience are also in demand. 

While earning your graphic design associate degree, build professional skills and gain industry knowledge, including:

• Adobe software programs including Photoshop, Illustrator and InDesign
• Effectively combining color, typography, images and other media to create designs
• Managing time and meeting deadlines
• Giving and receiving feedback
• Building a portfolio to share with potential employers and clients

In this hands-on program, you'll learn to apply design principles using the latest Adobe software and Wacom drawing tablets. As you advance through the program, you'll combine what you’ve learned and experiment with different techniques to develop your design style. You’ll also gain career skills by building a portfolio, preparing for job interviews, accepting client feedback and working as part of a team. Along with your core design classes, choose elective courses in subjects including drawing, art history and interpersonal communication.