Graphic Arts Technology Degree

Degree conferred: Associate in Applied Science - 67 credits
Program contact: Division of Arts and Social Sciences, (815) 921-3317

Program overview
 

Students in the program are prepared for a variety of jobs in the printing and publishing industry and related fields of graphic arts. The graphic arts industry is a major employer in Illinois and according to the Printing Industry of Illinois/Indiana, in the metro Chicago area. The Graphic Arts Technology Program focuses on developing students with a well-rounded education encompassing both the creative and technical aspects of the industry with a focus on the digital production techniques that are changing the world of media delivery.

Option A: Graphic Arts Technology (#8200)

Program overview
 

Practical learning experiences are offered in areas of design, layout and typography, production processes, variable data manipulation, estimating, and screen printing. Students gain in-depth experience working with text and images, page layout, specifying paper and ink selection, process color and Pantone spot colors, job estimating and business practices, and offset press operation, as well as binding and finishing choices.

Work and employment
 

Program graduates secure jobs in desktop publishing, electronic imaging, press operations, sales and customer service. Skills taught can also be useful for professionals in marketing, and in-house communication. Students should consult with an academic advisor, or the Dean or Academic Chair of the Graphic Arts Technology program.

Option B: Graphic Design (#8225)
 

Program overview
 

In the Graphic Design Program, you will study the concepts of drawing and design, typography, color theory, print processes, digital photography, illustration, page layout, marketing and advertising. In addition, you will learn to work within budget and time constraints, prepare electronic files for printing, choose appropriate printing and paper supplies, interpret and evaluate criticism of design and present a creative rationale to a client.

Work and employment
 

The Graphic Design Program prepares students for entry-level positions such as graphic designer, graphic artist or production artist. Students should consult with an academic advisor, or the Dean or Academic Chair of the Graphic Arts Technology program.

Option C: Cross Media Production (#8250)
 

Program overview
 

The current trend in printing and publishing companies across the nation is to integrate the use of the one-dimensional medium of print with other multi-dimensional forms of communication. The Cross Media Production course of study involves not only developing graphics and publishing pieces, but also web and television design.

Work and employment
 

The Cross Media Production Program of study prepares students for entry-level jobs creating print, marketing, web, and special effects images for printing, marketing and film companies. Students should consult with an academic advisor, or the Dean or Academic Chair of the Graphic Arts Technology program.