Why Study Graphic Design?
Graphic Design is an exciting and dynamic field that encompasses many aspects of design, from visual communication to digital, multimedia design and animation. Our Graphic Design degree program has two tracks that prepare students for a career in the creative arts, covering a broad range of topics such as typography, branding, motion graphics, illustration, user experience (UX) and user interface (UI) design, web and print design, multimedia design, and animation, among others. Students will learn to use industry-standard software programs like Adobe Creative Suite, and gain skills in 2D and 3D design, motion graphics, and Maya and Unity software. Our expert faculty will guide you as you develop your creative abilities, learn design principles, and create a portfolio of your work. Graduates of the program will be well-prepared for a variety of exciting Graphic Design careers, working in industries such as advertising, marketing, game design, user experience, digital media, and more.
School of Arts, Education, Humanities, and Social Sciences
Degree Tracks & Course Sequence
Associate of Applied Science (AAS): Graphic Design
- Animation and Interactive Media Track
- Visual Communication Track
Microcredentials
Real World Ready
Listening to workforce needs
Graduates of Rockland Community College are provided with a clear path to meaningful careers that meet the needs of businesses and industry in the communities we serve. Our students are trained in specific skills that are needed by employers, and guided through a career path that leads directly to workforce opportunities. With affordable tuition, students who begin their college careers at RCC are ready to meet the demands of the real world.
Free Career Exploration Assessment [ACCESS CODE: pathways]
Student Success
At Rockland Community College, you are provided with a Student Success Team that will help you with your academic journey, career exploration, transfer planning, support service referrals, and more! Your Team includes your Dean, Program Director, Faculty Advisor, Student Success Advisor, Connection Center Counselor, Financial Aid Advisor, Peer Mentors, and if you’re involved in any of these special programs, your Athletics, Honors, TRiO, and Veterans Advisors. During your first semester, you will take an ‘Introduction to the School’ course that will outline the various College offices and departments that can help you on your path.
Career Outlook
The AAS degree in Graphic Design has two tracks available: Animation and Interactive Media and Visual Communication to prepare for further study and to develop a portfolio for positions in a wide range of careers. The job outlook for digital design and animation is growing. Visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics site for multimedia artists and digital designers to learn more.
Internships
Students have had internships with RCC’s Strategic Marketing Department along with local Design and Print Studios and Art Galleries. Students are also connected with local organizations and departments within RCC for Applied and Service Learning projects where they gain valuable industry experience. Some course include COIL (Collaborative Online International Learning) projects where students develop experience along with global competencies that are highly valuable in today’s workplace.
Job Roles
Graphic Designer, Animator, Storyboard Artist, Background Artist, Motion Graphics Artist, UX/UI (User Experience/User Interface) Design, Product Design, Interaction Design, Information Graphics Design, Game Design, AR / VR design, Art Director, and Project Manager
Industries
Graphic designers work in-house or as free-lancers for various market sectors, as well as for digital design agencies. Industries can range from entertainment and education, to pharmaceutical and health and science, and many sectors in between. Every market sector and business needs graphic design for branding, marketing, and more.
Careers
Graphic Designer
Special Effects Artists and Animators
Web and Digital Interface Designers
Employment and wage data by occupation are based on the Occupational Employment Statistics (OES) survey, which collects information from approximately 51,000 businesses. labor.ny.gov
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Rockland Community College, State University of New York, offers a safe, supportive learning environment for thousands of students from diverse backgrounds. RCC has become the “first choice” for parents and students. Thanks to our affordable tuition, students can save $100,000 on a college education by starting at RCC and transferring to outstanding four-year colleges.