Graphic Arts, Associate in Science
The Graphic Arts Program provides students a collection of courses that build technical skills and perceptual abilities needed to gain employment in the field of graphic arts, or to continue education in graphic arts disciplines. The program also offers technical training for graphic arts professionals who seek specific skills related to graphic design and production.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of the program, students will be able to:
- Create and produce single- and multi-page document files with page layout software.
- Create and manipulate bitmap artwork files with digital imaging software.
- Create graphics, artwork and other vector objects with illustration software.
- Successfully combine electronic artwork into cohesive and efficient files for print and electronic publishing.
- Design effective visual materials for specific uses.
- Translate traditional media into digital form.
- Communicate effectively with service bureau, commercial printing and publishing professionals.
Associate in Science Degree Major Requirements
| Code | Title | Units |
|---|---|---|
| Required Core | ||
| ARTB 2 | Visual Fundamentals: Two-Dimensional Design | 3 |
| ARTB 4 | Color Fundamentals | 3 |
| ARTG 10 | Introduction to Computers for Graphic Arts | 4 |
| ARTG 11 | Introduction to Photoshop | 4 |
| ARTG 12 | Page Layout and Typography | 4 |
| ARTG 15 | Graphic Design: Images and Type | 4 |
| ARTG 16 | Graphic Arts Production and Pre-Press | 4 |
| ARTG 17 | Graphic Arts Portfolio | 1 |
| ARTP 11A | Photography I: Black and White | 3 |
| ARTS 10A | Drawing and Composition I | 3 |
| TOTAL MAJOR UNITS | 33 | |
| Additional Requirements | 27 | |
| Complete Competency Requirements and a general education pattern (MPC General Education, CSU General Education, or IGETC), and electives, if needed, for a total of 60 degree-applicable units | ||
| Total Units | 60 | |
Please refer to the graduation requirements section of the Catalog for information about degree and certificate requirements including Reading and Writing, Mathematics, Information Competency, and General Education requirements.
The model sequence of coursework below is one pathway for students to complete the program. The information below is not an official educational plan. An MPC Counselor can assist you with creating a personalized education plan based on your academic, career, and personal goals. Visit MPC’s Counseling website for more information about Counseling and up-to-date program requirements.
Suggested 2-Year Course Sequence
| Year 1 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Fall | Units | |
| ENGL 1A or ENGL 1AE | College Composition or College Composition: Enhanced | 3 |
| LIBR 50 | Introduction to Library and Research Skills | 1 |
| ARTB 2 | Visual Fundamentals: Two-Dimensional Design | 3 |
| ARTG 10 | Introduction to Computers for Graphic Arts | 4 |
| ARTG 11 | Introduction to Photoshop | 4 |
| Units | 15 | |
| Spring | ||
| MPC GE Area A2 (MATH 10 or MATH 16 Recommended) | 4 | |
| ARTB 4 | Color Fundamentals | 3 |
| ARTG 12 | Page Layout and Typography | 4 |
| ARTS 10A | Drawing and Composition I | 3 |
| MPC GE Area E | 3 | |
| Units | 17 | |
| Year 2 | ||
| Fall | ||
| ARTG 16 | Graphic Arts Production and Pre-Press | 4 |
| ARTP 11A | Photography I: Black and White | 3 |
| MPC GE Area B & Lab | 4 | |
| Electives (ENGL 2 Recommended) | 3 | |
| Units | 14 | |
| Spring | ||
| ARTG 15 | Graphic Design: Images and Type | 4 |
| ARTG 17 | Graphic Arts Portfolio | 1 |
| MPC GE Area D (US-1 Course Recommended) | 3 | |
| MPC GE Area F (US-2 & US-3 Course Recommended) | 3 | |
| Electives (SPCH 1, SPCH 2, or SPCH 3 Recommended) | 3 | |
| Units | 14 | |
| Total Units | 60 | |
MPC “Ready to Work” Career Education programs offer students the opportunity to gain knowledge and skills needed for employment and job advancement.
All students should consult with a Counselor to discuss career pathways, for support with career exploration and planning, and to create a personalized education plan to help them meet their academic, career, and personal goals. Visit MPC’s Counseling website for more information about Counseling services provided by MPC and to connect with a Counselor.
Additional resources are available through MPC’s Career & Transfer Resource Center (CTRC). The CTRC offers career resources, workshops, guidance and referrals. Visit the CTRC for support finding online career information and other resources to explore majors, occupations, and employment information.