Visual Communications Technology: Graphic Arts/Printing, A.A.S.

Location(s): Middletown Campus, Distance Learning

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Hegis # 0590

Program Description

The Associate in Applied Science degree program in Visual Communications Technology: Graphic Arts/Printing prepares graduates in all aspects of visual communications and graphic design. These include layout, production, typography, commercial print processes, illustration and computer graphics for entry level positions in graphic design, printing, publishing, desktop publishing, advertising, marketing, presentation graphics, game design, animation, multimedia and communications. As a result, the program prepares students for successful portfolio reviews leading to acceptance into B.A. or B.F.A. programs

Beginning with Visual Communications 1, students are introduced to visual communications theories, graphic design principles, elements, typography, influential persons and contemporary digital media. The curriculum offers sequential visual communications and graphic design courses, complemented by a broad offering of studio art and art history courses. After taking core courses in the first year, the student selects a concentration area in either photography, painting, figure drawing, or web design in the second year. Concurrently, the student completes the Visual Communications course sequence culminating with Viscom 4, the portfolio development course. Our Practicum course offers the Viscom student the opportunity to experience an internship with local businessesor departments within the College.

Through an articulation agreement, qualified BOCES candidates can enter the A.A.S. degree program, and receive credit for certain first-year courses. After completing the program, students may either enter the workforce or transfer into a bachelor’s degree program.

This degree has been approved by SUNY and NYS Education Department for online distance learning delivery. This does not mean that SUNY Orange offers every course in the program online; however, many are offered in this format. Please check the current credit course schedule for online DL virtual course listings offered each semester.

Program Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this program, students will be able to:

assume entry-level positions in visual communications and/or placement in upper-level programs of study
demonstrate fundamental concepts and processes of visual communications and graphic design
demonstrate an understanding of the visual communications industry and career opportunities in the field of visualcommunications
demonstrate proficiency in industry-standard technology including hardware and page layout, digital imaging, vector drawing,presentation and web design software
produce a portfolio appropriate for entry-level roles in visual communications and/or continuing education in upper-levelprograms

Admission Criteria

Admission to this program requires that students be high school graduates or have high school equivalency diplomas (HSEs). Ifstudents are home schooled, they may be eligible for admission.

Transfer Options

Although the Associate in Applied Science degree is designed primarily as a professional degree, many students do transfer tobaccalaureate programs at other colleges. Many of the courses in the program fulfill New York State general education requirementsand thus are easily transferable within the State University of New York system.

Presently SUNY Orange has an articulation agreement with Cazenovia College. Many other students have successfully transferred to