Graphic Design - Formerly Graphic Design Option - Major #8507

Certificate of Achievement Program Map
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The program map below represents an efficient and effective course taking sequence for this program. Individual circumstances might require some changes to this path. It is always recommended that you meet with your pathway counselor to develop a personalized educational plan.


Graphic Design combines aspects of the graphic communication and business curricula to provide a foundation in graphic design. The student will receive a background in computer graphics, and introductory video, audio and web design with an understanding of the requirements and limitations of production.


Upon completion of the program, students will:
  1. 1. Demonstrate competency in communication techniques and visual design theory through the use of application specific software and hardware.
Effective Term: 2023 Spring Semester

Term 1

16 units

GRC 15
Web Design

4 units
Effective Term: 2025 Spring Semester
This course incorporates the use of "Brackets" or comparable HTML editor, CSS, and components of Adobe Design Suite with emphasis on graphic design principles and digital photography included in exercises and project work. Skill development in recognition of artwork appropriate for web site design. Students capture images, design, create, and post working web sites. (A, CSU, UC)

GRC 17
Adobe Illustrator

3 units
Effective Term: 2025 Spring Semester
This course involves using Adobe Illustrator to design and create vector images that solve a variety of graphic problems. Emphasis on student project work provides an extensive coverage of software features. (A, CSU)

GRC 20A
Intro to Applied Graphics-Adobe Tools

3 units
Effective Term: 2025 Spring Semester
This course provides an overview of graphic communication processes as related to the graphics industry. Topics include terminology, input/output considerations, current trends, and hands-on projects using Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, and Adobe InDesign for production operations. (A, CSU)

GRC 30
Adobe Indesign/Professional Publishing

3 units
Effective Term: 2025 Spring Semester
This course concentrates on Adobe InDesign page layout software. There is an emphasis on production for print, e-book, and emerging technologies. Components from Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Illustrator programs are included in project work. (A, CSU)

GRC 39A
Introduction to Graphic Design

3 units
Effective Term: 2025 Spring Semester
This course deals with the principles and methods of graphic communication. Projects incorporate symbols and typography into visual design, exploring interrelationships between formal elements and symbolic content. (A, CSU, UC)
Course Details:
  1. Corequisite: GRC 20A
  2. Corequisite: GRC 320A
    1. CSU Transfer Course
    1. C - Humanities

    Term 2

    15 units

    BA 38 Operation of the Small Business or BA 52 Introduction to Entrepreneurship

    3 units

    BA 38
    Operation of the Small Business

    3 units
    Effective Term: 2024 Spring Semester
    A systematic approach to developing and managing a small business including the development of a formal, comprehensive business plan. Emphasis on discussions and practical exercises to develop expertise in the operations, marketing, human resource utilization, and financing of the small business venture. (A, CSU)
    or

    BA 52
    Introduction to Entrepreneurship

    3 units
    Effective Term: 2024 Spring Semester
    Develops an understanding of the complex tasks faced by individuals engaged in entrepreneurial activities. Identifies the methods for developing a business idea, the process of starting a business, how to acquire resources, and the key parts of a business plan. (A, CSU)

    GRC 20B
    Intro to Applied Graphics - Media

    3 units
    Effective Term: 2025 Spring Semester
    This course introduces repurposing media for production systems, incorporating print media, web design, video production, prototyping and screen presentation. Project work explores considerations and limitations of software for output. Units include professional development for the workplace. (A, CSU)

    GRC 31
    Intermediate Photoshop

    3 units
    Effective Term: 2025 Spring Semester
    This course features Adobe Photoshop with an emphasis on graphic design. Units include production for print, web, and digital media applications. (A, CSU, UC)

    GRC 40A
    Intermediate Graphic Design

    3 units
    Effective Term: 2025 Spring Semester
    This course deals with advanced principles and methods of graphic communication. Projects incorporate symbols and typography into visual design, exploring interrelationships between the formal elements and symbolic content. (A, CSU, UC)
    Course Details:
    1. Prerequisite: GRC 39A
    2. Prerequisite: GRC 339A
      1. CSU Transfer Course
      1. C - Humanities

      GRC 55
      Social Media Design

      3 units
      Effective Term: 2025 Spring Semester
      In this introductory course, students will create content for a branded identity. Students will use online-based software and/or smart device applications to create graphics, images, blog posts, and video for current Social Media platforms. (A, CSU)
      Total: 31 units