Digital Media and Design: Programs & Pathways
Turn ideas into impactful digital creations
Transform your creativity into career-ready skills at College of Lake County, IL. Our Digital Media and Design programs provide hands-on experience with industry-standard software and hardware, preparing you for careers in graphic design, web design, animation, video production, interactive design, social media and more.
Build a professional portfolio through real-world projects, competitions and service-learning opportunities while developing both technical skills and creative vision. Flexible pathways allow you to tailor your education to your career goals.
Connect, collaborate and build your network
Gain practical experience through internships with local companies like Apex Signs and Graphics, campus video projects and digital promotions. Compete in national SkillsUSA Championships for animation, advertising or web design. Connect with professionals to access freelance and career opportunities.
Explore your pathway to a rewarding career in digital media and design—from foundational certificates to A.A.S. degree options. Start today and turn your creativity into a professional calling.
Highlights
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Internships Available
Gain real-world experience and build your portfolio with a hands-on internship. -
Financial Aid / Scholarship Opportunities
Explore ways to pay for college (based on need/achievement). -
Career Degrees Available
Gain in-demand technical skills by earning an associate degree in 2 years. -
Career Certificates Available
Refine your skills into an in-demand career by earning a career certificate in 1 year or less.
Choose your digital media and design program
Digital A/V Production and Editing Certificate
- Cost
- $5,075* (estimated)
*Estimated cost is based on recommended pathway credit hours for full-time students for academic year 2025-2026. This includes in-district tuition and comprehensive fees, before financial aid, including grants, loans, and scholarships, is applied. Actual cost may vary to include additional fees, materials, and other cost of attendance factors such as living expenses, transportation, etc. Explore opportunities for financial assistance at CLC. Learn more about the Cost of Attendance.
Career degrees & certificates: What's the difference?
For certificate-seeking students who want to earn job skills for entry-level occupations or increase their career opportunities.
You can complete a certificate in less than two years. Many certificate programs include career degree courses, allowing you to stack certificates toward an A.A.S. degree.
For degree-seeking students who want to start a new career or advance their current career.
Full-time students can earn an Associate Degree in Applied Science (A.A.S.) at CLC in two years. Gain job-ready skills from experienced instructors and work-based experience from apprenticeships and internships. Some of the courses can even earn college credits, which can transfer to a 4-year college or university to apply toward a bachelor's degree.
Need help getting started?
Ask us for help. Your College & Career Navigator (CCN) will help you:
- complete the admission process
- choose an academic program
- enroll in first-semester classes
- get access to helpful resources
Career-focused courses
Courses move from core concepts to real-world projects, preparing you for versatile roles in media production, design or digital content creation.
Foundational and advanced coursework in digital media production spans these industries and more:
- Animation
- Audio
- Graphic design
- Interactive media
- Social media
- Video
- Web design
Explore the tools and techniques across:
- Audio mixing and post-production
- Graphic design
- Motion graphics
- 3D
- UX/UI
- Web content development
Apply now: It's easy and free
Complete the application form to begin your program.
After you apply, a Career and College Navigator (CCN) will reach out to answer your questions, guide your next steps and help you get enrolled. Explore steps to apply at CLC.
Build in-demand skills on industry-standard digital tools
In your classes, you’ll work on both Mac and PC systems and use the same digital marketing design tools professionals rely on. It’s a hands-on way to build confidence and develop real, work-ready skills, with access to a wide range of digital tools and applications.
What students say about CLC
Personal guidance from experienced professionals
If you're pursuing a certificate program or an associate degree to enter the workforce directly, our experts provide the guidance you need to succeed.
Master digital media and design tools through hands-on learning and real-world applications. Our instructors are experienced professionals who've dedicated their careers to your success. They work closely with design industry professionals to ensure the skills you learn are in high demand by local employers. They know your name, providing personal feedback and support in small class sizes.
Build your portfolio and earn while you learn through paid internships. Practice skills you learn at CLC in the real world. Gain valuable work experience and make professional connections.
Get help landing your next job. As you near the completion of your studies, our Career & Job Placement Center can help you find the job you want. Our career specialists work closely with companies that are hiring. They guide you in resume building, interview prep and more.
Meet our instructors
Experience the benefit of small class sizes and personalized instruction.
Department chairs
Faculty
CLC digital media and design programs in the news
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From Au Pair to Artist: How a student turned her dreams into reality
Thais O'Malley was able to turn her dreams into a reality with her graphic design degree. -
Turning videography passion into a profession
Carlos Curiel started behind a camera at a young age, but it wasn't until he was older that he realized how much he loved it. Now, that passion is his career. -
Adult learner finds new career
Matthew Sobczyk was always creative, making his own music, and spent most of his career in carpentry. When he retired, he found a new passion in digital media and design.
Take the next step...
Be debt-free at CLC
CLC has some of the lowest tuition around. Financial aid and scholarships are available—even for working adults.
Explore careers
Discover majors and career paths to complement and extend your intuitive interests and abilities.
Request info
Your education is a big investment of your time, money and attention. Gather all the info you need.
Get started
Start your application today—it’s free and easy to complete. When you’re ready, we’re ready to help you take the next step.