NHCC’s Associate in Science Graphic Design program is built on a strong foundation of studio art skill and technique. It prepares students for continued study in a baccalaureate or professional degree program in graphic design, illustration, or computer graphics, as well as for positions in design studios, advertising agencies, corporate art departments, magazines, and newspapers. Students will learn the fundamentals of design and the application of design principles in realistic and stimulating assignments. An important aspect of the program is problem solving and developing an ability to communicate using typography and images within the design format. The program focuses on the integration of computer graphics technology with the media of traditional fine arts disciplines such as drawing, design, color, painting, printmaking, and photography. Students study computer graphics on state-of-the-art hardware and software and they learn the necessary skills needed to produce professional design work.
Students must be proficient in the basics covered in the studio arts prerequisite courses before moving into the Graphic Design courses. Students take the appropriate prerequisite Art core courses in their first year before taking Graphic Design courses in their second year. It is strongly suggested that students take ART 2900 Studio Arts Capstone Practicum at the end of their program to assemble their professional portfolio.
This program provides students with technical and creative skills necessary for employment in graphic design, as well as fully accredited courses necessary for transfer to four-year schools such as the Moorhead State University, University of Wisconsin-Stout, The College of Visual Arts, and the Minneapolis College of Art and Design. Students will develop a portfolio of their design work which will help in their career and educational advancement.
It is recommended that students begin their Graphic Design studies by visiting with a counselor or advisor to determine the proper sequence of fine arts core courses to take before moving into graphic design courses.
NHCC Graphic Design Students Consistently Win International, National, and State Awards Too!
- Countless awards for NHCC's renowned literary arts magazine, "Under Construction," including nine 1st place awards from the Society for Professional Journalists; six 1st place awards, one 2nd place award, and one 3rd place award from the Community College National Literary Magazine Competition; 1st and 2nd place awards from the Community College Humanities Association; and a Silver Award for Superb Craftsmanship from the IAPHC/The Graphic
- Third place in the International Student Cover Design sponsored by Print Magazine
- Four top ten honors in the Mars Staedtler International Competition of Illustration
- National award for Liquetex Art Materials Awards Program
- Purchase award in the National Competition for Professional Printmakers at Notre Dame, Baltimore
- Third place in the national competition for the Lewis and Clark Bicentennial
- Numerous logo competitions throughout the Twin Cities
metropolitan area