Academic Catalog

Professional Certificate in Design Studies

Concentration in Graphic & Visual Design

Program Title:
Professional Certificate in Design Studies
‍
Level:
Continuing Education

Concentration:
Graphic & Visual Design
‍
Abbreviation:
PC GRA

Description:
The Professional Certificate in Design Studies (PC) program is centered around foundation studies in design, specialized design workshops to gain tacit knowledge in a design profession, and career courses to prepare students for work in professional design practice. The concentration in Graphic & Visual Design equips students with the visual literacy and technical craft needed for practice in contemporary communications design settings.
The Professional Certificate in Design Studies with a Concentration in Graphic & Visual Design academic program requires the completion of 18 continuing education units, consisting of the following course requirements:

Foundation COURSE Requirement

Complete 4 Continuing Education Units of the following courses:

Career COURSE Requirement

Complete 2 Continuing Education Units of the following courses:
The Professional Certificate in Design Studies with a concentration in Graphic & Visual Design academic program works to achieve the following outcomes:

Specialized Knowledge

  • Create visually compelling and effective compositions across print, digital, and interactive media.
  • Utilize specialized graphic design software and coding techniques to produce innovative digital and interactive design solutions.
  • Implement information design strategies to transform complex information into compelling visual narratives.

Broad and Integrative Knowledge

  • Recognize the interdisciplinary nature of design and its intersections with other fields.
  • Integrate theoretical design concepts with practical skills to address real-world design challenges.

Intellectual Skills

  • Analyze design briefs and client needs to develop creative solutions that meet project objectives.
  • Evaluate design work and design outcomes to identify strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement.

Applied and Collaborative Learning

  • Collaborate effectively with peers, clients, and/or stakeholders to develop and execute design projects from concept to completion.
  • Develop career assets and skills needed to navigate the design industry job market.

Civic and Global Learning

  • Understand the ethical and social responsibilities of designers, including issues of accessibility, sustainability, and cultural sensitivity.
  • Explore the role of design in addressing global challenges and promoting social change.