Certificate of Proficiency (Untranscripted): Graphic Arts

Below is a sample academic plan that shows you how you can complete your Certificate in a timely manner. Your path may look different depending on your circumstances?for example, if you attend part-time, choose to take Intersession or Summer courses, or have earned prior credit (Credit for Prior Learning, Dual Enrollment, Transfer Credit). You are required to meet with a counselor to set up a comprehensive education plan that is tailored to your individual circumstances and goals.

An express (untranscripted) certificate program introducing students to major components of Graphic Design and Digital Media. The program prepares students for entry-level positions in the field of graphic arts and design related office work. The courses in this certificate are required for the AA degrees in Graphic Design and Digital Media Arts.

Competently create digital designs using industry-standard design software and theories.

Demonstrate creative problem-solving skills.

Apply design knowledge to basic industry problems in multiple media applications; including web, print, and communication graphics.

Develop a digital media-based portfolio for application in entry-level design careers.

Program Map

GE General Education Course
M Major Course
E Elective Course
SI Summer/Intersession Course *
* Course is appropriate for Summer and Intersession, which are accelerated terms.

Getting Started

Comprehensive Education Plan: You are required to meet with a counselor for a comprehensive educational plan that is tailored to your individual circumstances and goals. Please schedule an appointment with a counselor in your first semester.

First Semester

6 units
DM 195
Introduction to Digital Media Arts
Foundation-level course designed for graphic designers, artists, photographers, web designers, programmers, and animation artists working in the digital realm. Students are introduced to fundamental concepts, practices, and theories of digital art production. Course topics include integration of traditional design, color, and compositional principles with contemporary digital tools, including industry-standard software, such as Adobe Creative Cloud for print, web and time-based media. (Same as ART 195)
    DM 113
    Introduction to Digital Media Design Principles
    This course is for students entering a career in digital media and majors in the digital media field. This digital design course emphasizes critical examination of basic principles and elements of design in computer graphics. Students will not only produce designs, but examine the physiology and psychology behind fundamental elements of design, investigate their use in culture, as well as practice and reflect on how graphics, scale, and space can impact humans through visual design features and functions. Special focus on design for media applications, creative visual storytelling for digital applications.
      Plan 1: 3A. Arts

      Second Semester

      6 units
      DM 121A or DM 122
      Introduction to the use of type styles, appropriate type selection and their characteristics as a means toward understanding design and communication through type solutions. Projects will explore current graphics industry practices and standards, including the use of digital technology and traditional hand skills.
      • Prerequisite: DM 195
      • Prerequisite: ART 195
      • Prerequisite: Contact instructor for portfolio review. A portfolio exhibiting equivalent to above listed prerequisite skillset.
      OR
      Introduction to 2D and 3D graphic design principles in visual communication with an introduction to design process, methodology/theory, and problem-solving. Content includes color theory, typography, identity design, and visual perception. This graphic design concept-based course will explore divergent techniques, tools, and practices resulting in the production of effective visual communications reflecting the needs of the expanding media landscape. A perfect pairing with the course DM 113: Introduction to Digital Media Design Principles.
      • Recommended Preparation: DM 195
      CHOICE: History