Digital Media and Design - Graphic Design Specialty Option

Associate in Applied Science
Career Degree
Cost
$15,619*

Inform and move audiences with design

Say 1,000 words with a single image

Tell stories through a visual medium with an Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree in Digital Media and Design – Graphic Design. Learn color, typography, imagery and layout to understand how to build a visual identity through print and digital designs.

Your coursework prepares you for regular interactions with clients in need of your handiwork. Gain expertise in:

  • Producing website layouts
  • Assembling final layouts for print vendors
  • Creating mock-ups for packaging
  • Researching new design concepts
  • Maintaining records, files and other documents
  • Collaborating with others to refine visuals

What can you do with an A.A.S. in Digital Media & Design – Graphic Design?

The A.A.S. degree specializing in graphic design prepares you to start work or continue your education in graphic design, digital communications or related fields.

Highlights

  • Internships Available

    Gain relevant work experience before you complete the program.

  • Financial Aid/Scholarships Available

    Based on need and/or achievement. Explore ways to pay for college.

  • Career Degree

    Earn an associate degree in 2 years and gain in-demand technical and job-ready skills.

  • Program Length: 2 Years

    Full-time students finish in 2 years.

Career Outlook

View more careers

Need help?

Your College & Career Navigator (CCN) helps you

  • complete the admission process
  • choose an academic program
  • enroll in first-semester classes
  • get access to helpful resources

Talk to a CCN

Recommended Pathway

This pathway serves as a guide for students to complete the degree or certificate assuming full-time enrollment (registered in 12 or more credit hours per semester) with Semester 1 typically representing a Fall term. Students are strongly encouraged to meet with their College and Career Navigator (CCN) to identify coursework that will meet degree requirements based on individual academic goals. For a more inclusive list of course options, see the college catalog.

Icon Key

  • Credit for prior learning available
  • Dual credit options available
  • Global citizenship
  • Online/Virtual options available

  • Course Code Course Title Credits Course Highlights
    CLC 120

    CLC 120 College Success Seminar

    Class Description

    This course is designed to teach students attitudes and skills valuable for college success. Topics may include: growth mindset, self-advocacy skills, college resources, college culture, financial literacy, and academic success strategies, such as study skills, time management, and goal setting. Throughout this course, students will develop skills necessary for promoting positive human relations in a diverse society.
         		2
    DMD 111

    DMD 111 Introduction to Digital Media

    Class Description

    This course will explore the variety of hardware and software now used to produce digital media, from simple audience-oriented presentations to highly interactive applications. Through lectures, demonstrations, and hands-on laboratory experience, we will examine the production techniques, application uses, trends, business and legal concerns, design elements, and the product evaluation standards currently used in the digital media industry. Students will develop the design, storyboards, and prototype for a project.
         		3
    DMD 121

    DMD 121 Introduction to Graphic Design

    Class Description

    This is a foundation course that develops a student’s ability to understand graphic design with a focus on print media but applies to interactive media as well. The student is introduced to basic design terminology, principles, theory, tools, and techniques used in today’s digitally produced communications. An emphasis throughout is a solid foundation in organizational skills and research associated with design. This course lays the foundation for more advanced digital design courses. Note: Student must possess basic computer/Internet skills which include creating, saving, and editing files in the Windows or MAC operating systems; performing basic editing (copy/paste); copying files; using folders and sub folders to organize and manage files; downloading files off the Internet; opening websites; and using search engines
         		3
    ART 122

    ART 122 Two Dimensional Design

    Class Description

    This course is a basic studio experience for those interested in fine arts, commercial arts or art education. Students will carry out a series of problems relating to the elements and principles of two-dimensional design. The course will develop the students' organizational abilities and technical skills, with the focus on verbal, written and visual definitions of terms and concepts of two-dimensional design used by artists and designers. Note: Additional materials beyond those covered by course or lab fees will be required. See course syllabus for a list of materials and approximate costs.
         		3
    ENG 121

    ENG 121 English Composition I

    Class Description

    This course is designed to help students develop their competence in college-level writing and in the analysis of texts so they can enter the dialogue of the academic community. This course includes the analysis and practice of argument and the use of critical thinking to read, analyze, and produce college-level texts.
         		3
    • Course Code CLC 120
      Course Title

      CLC 120 College Success Seminar

      Class Description

      This course is designed to teach students attitudes and skills valuable for college success. Topics may include: growth mindset, self-advocacy skills, college resources, college culture, financial literacy, and academic success strategies, such as study skills, time management, and goal setting. Throughout this course, students will develop skills necessary for promoting positive human relations in a diverse society.
      Credits 2
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code DMD 111
      Course Title

      DMD 111 Introduction to Digital Media

      Class Description

      This course will explore the variety of hardware and software now used to produce digital media, from simple audience-oriented presentations to highly interactive applications. Through lectures, demonstrations, and hands-on laboratory experience, we will examine the production techniques, application uses, trends, business and legal concerns, design elements, and the product evaluation standards currently used in the digital media industry. Students will develop the design, storyboards, and prototype for a project.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code DMD 121
      Course Title

      DMD 121 Introduction to Graphic Design

      Class Description

      This is a foundation course that develops a student’s ability to understand graphic design with a focus on print media but applies to interactive media as well. The student is introduced to basic design terminology, principles, theory, tools, and techniques used in today’s digitally produced communications. An emphasis throughout is a solid foundation in organizational skills and research associated with design. This course lays the foundation for more advanced digital design courses. Note: Student must possess basic computer/Internet skills which include creating, saving, and editing files in the Windows or MAC operating systems; performing basic editing (copy/paste); copying files; using folders and sub folders to organize and manage files; downloading files off the Internet; opening websites; and using search engines
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code ART 122
      Course Title

      ART 122 Two Dimensional Design

      Class Description

      This course is a basic studio experience for those interested in fine arts, commercial arts or art education. Students will carry out a series of problems relating to the elements and principles of two-dimensional design. The course will develop the students' organizational abilities and technical skills, with the focus on verbal, written and visual definitions of terms and concepts of two-dimensional design used by artists and designers. Note: Additional materials beyond those covered by course or lab fees will be required. See course syllabus for a list of materials and approximate costs.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code ENG 121
      Course Title

      ENG 121 English Composition I

      Class Description

      This course is designed to help students develop their competence in college-level writing and in the analysis of texts so they can enter the dialogue of the academic community. This course includes the analysis and practice of argument and the use of critical thinking to read, analyze, and produce college-level texts.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights

  • Course Code Course Title Credits Course Highlights
    DMD 113

    DMD 113 History of Graphic Design

    Class Description

    This course is a general survey of the history of graphic design from its origins to contemporary practice. The goals of this course are to provide the following: the visual vocabulary of the development of signs and symbols, insight into the continuity of design thinking, understanding the social/political context of the practice, foundation for pursuit of research in the field of design.
         		3
    DMD 125

    DMD 125 Printing Production

    Class Description

    Printing Production focuses on current procedures that prepare designers and creative thinkers for real world situations in the printing industry. Sending a job to the print vendor can be a mysterious and expensive process of trial and error. Understanding print processes is an essential part of design that can assure a predictable outcome of deliverables. To manage a print job effectively, you must understand how print shops work, how to communicate with them, and how to identify the best design solution for your budget. Topics include print media software, apps and specifications; and various types of presses, substrates, bindings, and/or finishings.
         		3
    DMD 174

    DMD 174 Typography

    Class Description

    This course introduces students to the use of typography within the design process. Major topics to cover include anatomy of letterforms, type history, classification systems, methods of typographic communication, critical comparisons of type styles, contemporary trends and typography as image. Students will learn both technical and creative ways type can be used through lectures, discussion, critiques, and hands-on projects. The course explores 2D communication and design solutions using typography.
         		3
    ART 222

    ART 222 Computer Art I

    Class Description

    This course presents a computer software-based approach to produce art. Visual image manipulation and generation will be stressed, including the integration of computer hardware, software, and peripheral devices as tools to manufacture, capture, and combine traditional and contemporary visual ideas as applied to art and design. Note: Additional materials beyond those covered by course or lab fees will be required. See course syllabus for a list of materials and approximate costs.
         		3
    MTH 114

    MTH 114 Applied Mathematics

    Class Description

    This course explores the basic principles of mathematics with an emphasis on career technical applications. Operations of signed numbers including integers fractions and decimals are studied. Further areas of study include ratios, proportions, percentages, measuring systems, unit conversions, precision, accuracy, scientific notation introductory algebra and practical geometry.
         		3
    • Course Code DMD 113
      Course Title

      DMD 113 History of Graphic Design

      Class Description

      This course is a general survey of the history of graphic design from its origins to contemporary practice. The goals of this course are to provide the following: the visual vocabulary of the development of signs and symbols, insight into the continuity of design thinking, understanding the social/political context of the practice, foundation for pursuit of research in the field of design.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code DMD 125
      Course Title

      DMD 125 Printing Production

      Class Description

      Printing Production focuses on current procedures that prepare designers and creative thinkers for real world situations in the printing industry. Sending a job to the print vendor can be a mysterious and expensive process of trial and error. Understanding print processes is an essential part of design that can assure a predictable outcome of deliverables. To manage a print job effectively, you must understand how print shops work, how to communicate with them, and how to identify the best design solution for your budget. Topics include print media software, apps and specifications; and various types of presses, substrates, bindings, and/or finishings.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code DMD 174
      Course Title

      DMD 174 Typography

      Class Description

      This course introduces students to the use of typography within the design process. Major topics to cover include anatomy of letterforms, type history, classification systems, methods of typographic communication, critical comparisons of type styles, contemporary trends and typography as image. Students will learn both technical and creative ways type can be used through lectures, discussion, critiques, and hands-on projects. The course explores 2D communication and design solutions using typography.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code ART 222
      Course Title

      ART 222 Computer Art I

      Class Description

      This course presents a computer software-based approach to produce art. Visual image manipulation and generation will be stressed, including the integration of computer hardware, software, and peripheral devices as tools to manufacture, capture, and combine traditional and contemporary visual ideas as applied to art and design. Note: Additional materials beyond those covered by course or lab fees will be required. See course syllabus for a list of materials and approximate costs.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code MTH 114
      Course Title

      MTH 114 Applied Mathematics

      Class Description

      This course explores the basic principles of mathematics with an emphasis on career technical applications. Operations of signed numbers including integers fractions and decimals are studied. Further areas of study include ratios, proportions, percentages, measuring systems, unit conversions, precision, accuracy, scientific notation introductory algebra and practical geometry.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights

  • Course Code Course Title Credits Course Highlights
    DMD 115

    DMD 115 Internet Fundamentals

    Class Description

    This course addresses in detail everything students need to know to access, explore, and use the world's richest information resource: the Internet. The course examines software, online provider options, costs, the telecommunication process, E-mail, FTP, Chat, Usenet, the World Wide Web and Web 2.0. Students will get step by step instructions on how to access, research, and retrieve academic, personal, and professional information.
         		3
    • Course Code DMD 115
      Course Title

      DMD 115 Internet Fundamentals

      Class Description

      This course addresses in detail everything students need to know to access, explore, and use the world's richest information resource: the Internet. The course examines software, online provider options, costs, the telecommunication process, E-mail, FTP, Chat, Usenet, the World Wide Web and Web 2.0. Students will get step by step instructions on how to access, research, and retrieve academic, personal, and professional information.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights

  • Course Code Course Title Credits Course Highlights
    DMD 273

    DMD 273 Advanced Electronic Graphic Publishing

    Class Description

    This course is designed as an advanced study of two dimensional design principles for creating page layout. The course will provide students the opportunity to develop a complete print identity design system in support of a marketing strategy including strategies of consumer decision-making. Students will develop all aspects including a fully functioning prototype for a variety of different client needs. The course will look into the mass production issues as well as specialty types of print packages.
         		3
    DMD 117

    DMD 117 Concepts in New Media

    Class Description

    This course is an introductory evaluation of the critical concepts of new media, and their impact on our society and culture. Through readings, lectures, group discussions and hands-on experience, students will study the technical, economic, political, legal, aesthetic, and cultural implications of new media.
         		3
    ART 149

    ART 149 Digital Photography I

    Class Description

    This course covers the capture, processing, and output of digital images. Digital camera and scanner input technology, as well as inkjet and electronic media output are explored. Technical instruction in Adobe Photoshop image processing software will also be covered. Note: Additional materials beyond those covered by course or lab fees will be required. See course syllabus for a list of materials and approximate costs.
         		3
    CMM 121

    CMM 121 Fundamentals of Speech

    Class Description

    For students interested in improving their oral communication competency. This course combines a theoretical basis with practical verbal and nonverbal skills to enhance public speaking effectiveness. Students learn how to develop, research, organize, adapt, deliver and critique messages.
         		3
    BUS 239

    BUS 239 Social Media Marketing

    Class Description

    This course provides an introduction to the use of social media marketing within a business context. The course provides an overview of the role of social media in building and managing customer relationships as a component of the larger marketing program. Students will develop the tools to communicate with customers using the major social network platforms and analyze platform specific metrics to measure media effectiveness. AMT 239 and BUS 239 are cross-listed.
         		3
    • Course Code DMD 273
      Course Title

      DMD 273 Advanced Electronic Graphic Publishing

      Class Description

      This course is designed as an advanced study of two dimensional design principles for creating page layout. The course will provide students the opportunity to develop a complete print identity design system in support of a marketing strategy including strategies of consumer decision-making. Students will develop all aspects including a fully functioning prototype for a variety of different client needs. The course will look into the mass production issues as well as specialty types of print packages.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code DMD 117
      Course Title

      DMD 117 Concepts in New Media

      Class Description

      This course is an introductory evaluation of the critical concepts of new media, and their impact on our society and culture. Through readings, lectures, group discussions and hands-on experience, students will study the technical, economic, political, legal, aesthetic, and cultural implications of new media.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code ART 149
      Course Title

      ART 149 Digital Photography I

      Class Description

      This course covers the capture, processing, and output of digital images. Digital camera and scanner input technology, as well as inkjet and electronic media output are explored. Technical instruction in Adobe Photoshop image processing software will also be covered. Note: Additional materials beyond those covered by course or lab fees will be required. See course syllabus for a list of materials and approximate costs.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code CMM 121
      Course Title

      CMM 121 Fundamentals of Speech

      Class Description

      For students interested in improving their oral communication competency. This course combines a theoretical basis with practical verbal and nonverbal skills to enhance public speaking effectiveness. Students learn how to develop, research, organize, adapt, deliver and critique messages.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code BUS 239
      Course Title

      BUS 239 Social Media Marketing

      Class Description

      This course provides an introduction to the use of social media marketing within a business context. The course provides an overview of the role of social media in building and managing customer relationships as a component of the larger marketing program. Students will develop the tools to communicate with customers using the major social network platforms and analyze platform specific metrics to measure media effectiveness. AMT 239 and BUS 239 are cross-listed.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights

  • Course Code Course Title Credits Course Highlights
    DMD 116

    DMD 116 Web Design and Development

    Class Description

    This course is an introduction to Web page design and creation using industry standard Web design software. Students will learn to use graphics, sound, video, animation, scripts, and Cascading Style Sheets (CSS) to enhance Web pages. The course will cover the basic concepts of Web design and color with an emphasis on designing for visual appeal and user-friendly navigation. Students will also gain a fundamental knowledge of HTML/XHTML and the skills to publish and maintain Web sites. NOTE: Recommended DMD 111 or DMD 115 or student must possess basic computer/Internet skills which include creating, saving, and editing files in the Windows or MAC operating systems; performing basic editing (copy/paste); copying files; using folders and subfolders to organize and manage files; downloading files off the Internet; opening Web sites; and using search engines.
         		3
    DMD 279

    DMD 279 Packaging Design

    Class Description

    This course is designed as an overview of two dimensional design principles for creating three-dimensional packaging. The history of design packaging and strategies of consumer decision-making will be explored. The course will provide students the opportunity to develop a complete package identity design system in support of a marketing strategy. Students will develop all aspects including a fully functioning prototype for a variety of different client needs. The course will look into the mass production issues as well as specialty types of packaging.
         		3
    ANT 121

    ANT 121 Introduction to Anthropology

    Class Description

    This course is an introduction to the nature of humans and their development and relationship to the physical, social, and cultural environments both past and present. This course surveys the major fields of anthropology: physical anthropology, ethnology, linguistics, and archaeology, with an emphasis on non-Western cultures and underrepresented groups.
         		3
    PHI 125

    PHI 125 Introduction to Ethics

    Class Description

    In this course, students are exposed to moral theories such as virtue ethics, utilitarianism, deontology, and the ethics of care. Students also critically evaluate general moral theories, and fundamental moral concepts. Additionally, they apply these moral theories to contemporary moral issues such as animal rights, environmental issues, reproductive technologies, abortion, euthanasia and assisted suicide, poverty and famine relief, war and peace, racism, sexism, emerging technologies, and other issues. Students develop and defend their own views on these matters, and evaluate the views of others. By studying and applying moral theories to their own lives, students are encouraged to explore different ways of effecting change in their lives and communities. Throughout the course, students learn about moral concepts such as autonomy, impartiality, utility, rights, responsibility, and justice. Specific attention is given to moral issues relevant to and philosophical contributions made by members of traditionally underrepresented groups.
         		3
    ENG 113

    ENG 113 Technical Communication Practicum

    Class Description

    Technical Communication Practicum provides work simulation experience in a variety of writing areas according to the student's major occupational area. The purpose of the course is to allow development and evaluation of writing assignments taken from the student's supervised experiences to on-the-job simulation with the responsibilities of the technical writer.
         		3
    • Course Code DMD 116
      Course Title

      DMD 116 Web Design and Development

      Class Description

      This course is an introduction to Web page design and creation using industry standard Web design software. Students will learn to use graphics, sound, video, animation, scripts, and Cascading Style Sheets (CSS) to enhance Web pages. The course will cover the basic concepts of Web design and color with an emphasis on designing for visual appeal and user-friendly navigation. Students will also gain a fundamental knowledge of HTML/XHTML and the skills to publish and maintain Web sites. NOTE: Recommended DMD 111 or DMD 115 or student must possess basic computer/Internet skills which include creating, saving, and editing files in the Windows or MAC operating systems; performing basic editing (copy/paste); copying files; using folders and subfolders to organize and manage files; downloading files off the Internet; opening Web sites; and using search engines.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code DMD 279
      Course Title

      DMD 279 Packaging Design

      Class Description

      This course is designed as an overview of two dimensional design principles for creating three-dimensional packaging. The history of design packaging and strategies of consumer decision-making will be explored. The course will provide students the opportunity to develop a complete package identity design system in support of a marketing strategy. Students will develop all aspects including a fully functioning prototype for a variety of different client needs. The course will look into the mass production issues as well as specialty types of packaging.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code ANT 121
      Course Title

      ANT 121 Introduction to Anthropology

      Class Description

      This course is an introduction to the nature of humans and their development and relationship to the physical, social, and cultural environments both past and present. This course surveys the major fields of anthropology: physical anthropology, ethnology, linguistics, and archaeology, with an emphasis on non-Western cultures and underrepresented groups.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code PHI 125
      Course Title

      PHI 125 Introduction to Ethics

      Class Description

      In this course, students are exposed to moral theories such as virtue ethics, utilitarianism, deontology, and the ethics of care. Students also critically evaluate general moral theories, and fundamental moral concepts. Additionally, they apply these moral theories to contemporary moral issues such as animal rights, environmental issues, reproductive technologies, abortion, euthanasia and assisted suicide, poverty and famine relief, war and peace, racism, sexism, emerging technologies, and other issues. Students develop and defend their own views on these matters, and evaluate the views of others. By studying and applying moral theories to their own lives, students are encouraged to explore different ways of effecting change in their lives and communities. Throughout the course, students learn about moral concepts such as autonomy, impartiality, utility, rights, responsibility, and justice. Specific attention is given to moral issues relevant to and philosophical contributions made by members of traditionally underrepresented groups.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code ENG 113
      Course Title

      ENG 113 Technical Communication Practicum

      Class Description

      Technical Communication Practicum provides work simulation experience in a variety of writing areas according to the student's major occupational area. The purpose of the course is to allow development and evaluation of writing assignments taken from the student's supervised experiences to on-the-job simulation with the responsibilities of the technical writer.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights

Total Credit Hours

62

*Cost is estimated based on recommended pathway credit hours. This includes in-district tuition and other fees, such as books and materials before financial aid is applied, as well as grants, loans or scholarships. There are many opportunities for financial assistance at CLC. Learn more about Cost of Attendance.



Female student taking notes in class

Digital Media and Design at CLC

Get the bigger picture

This degree is just one possible way to study Digital Media and Design. Get the bigger picture—degrees, credentials and extra options.

View the Digital Media and Design Program Overview

Frequently asked questions

What students say about CLC


  • Thais O'Malley

    Thais O'Malley

    Graduate

    “The quality of the program helped prepare me for the real world. I got my job right after graduation. I thanked my teachers because they prepared me so well.”

    Thais studied Digital Media and Design at CLC. She now works as a graphic designer and social media specialist for the City of Lake Forest.

    Read Thais' story

    Thais O'Malley
  • Photo of Luzbeth Perez

    Luzbeth Perez

    Graduate

    “I accomplished goals I never thought I could in my time at CLC. I earned straight As and became part of the honor society. I started drawing art! CLC is a place where you can succeed in your education.”

    Luzbeth studied Digital Media and Design at CLC. At first she struggled in class but with support from CLC faculty, she graduated magna cum laude.

    Read Luzbeth's story

    Photo of Luzbeth Perez
1/2

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.

Paying for college

Request info

Your education is a big investment of your time, money and attention. Gather all the info you need.

Send me info

Visit us

Get a feel for life on campus when you register for a tour. We'd love to show you around. Oh, and bring family and friends along for the fun, if you want!

Take a tour

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.

Start today!
1/4