The Associate of Arts degree in Communication Design (Communication Design, AA) prepares students for entry-level positions in the field and/or transfer to a bachelor鈥檚 degree program in a similar discipline. Students learn foundation skills in strategic thinking, planning, iterative prototyping, and acquiring proficiency with the range of technology platforms used in interactive design. Students plan, develop, test, and market web and app design solutions with an emphasis on visual flow, functionality, and code using optimum parameters, accessibility standards, and user experience guidelines. In completing the program students will have an entry-level portfolio that can help them transition to doing an internship, freelance, or contract positions. The portfolio can also be tailored for applying to bachelor鈥檚 degree programs. In either a work or school scenario the portfolio is the aspiring designers professional tool for advancement. Students completing the degree have demonstrated skills in the design and development of digital products including: websites, smartphone and tablet apps, and digital interfaces. Upon completion of the program, students are prepared for employment in app design and development and may be prepared for employment as a: Front-end Web Developer or Designer, Multimedia Artist, App Developer, UX/UI Designer, Graphic Designer, Interactive Media Designer, Digital and Social Marketer, and Visual Designer.
Major Core Requirements (36 units)
| Course Number | Course Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| GDES001 | Adobe Creative Apps for Graphic Design | 3 units |
| GDES003 | Introduction to Graphic Design | 3 units |
| GDES004 | Design Thinking | 4 units |
| GDES008 | Photoshop for Designers | 3 units |
| GDES009 | Introduction to Typography | 3 units |
| GDES020A | UX Design 1 | 4 units |
| GDES020B | UX Design 2 | 4 units |
| ARTS031A | Beginning Drawing | 3 units |
| ARTS033A | Two-Dimensional Design | 3 units |
| ARTS062D | Studio Photography | 3 units |
| ARTS081 | 3-Dimensional Design | 3 units |
Total Major Units: 36 units
To be awarded an Associate Degree, a student must:
- Achieve a grade of 鈥淐鈥� or better in the major requirements.
- Completion of WVC or Cal-GETC General Education patterns. Students whose goal is to obtain a bachelor鈥檚 degree should complete the Cal-GETC General Education pattern.
- Complete additional degree-applicable units to meet the minimum 60-unit Associate Degree requirements.