Associate of Arts (AA) in Graphic Design
Program Overview
The Graphic Design & Photography Associate in Arts Degree at SBCC equips students with industry-standard graphic design skills, fostering creativity, problem-solving, and visual communication abilities. Graduates are prepared for careers in graphic design, advertising, branding, and art direction, with opportunities in various industries and settings. The program emphasizes hands-on practice, theoretical foundations, and a solid understanding of design principles.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Overview:
The Graphic Design & Photography Department provides a two-year Associate in Arts Degree, prepping students for further education and professional opportunities in the creative industry. After finishing the program with a minimum "C" grade, students can choose between three General Education options for graduation: SBCC General Education Requirements, IGETC Pattern, or CSU GE Breadth pattern. Graduates should also fulfill the Institutional Requirements (Area E), Information Competency Requirement (Area F), 60 degree-applicable units, cumulative GPA of 2.0 or greater in SBCC and all college units attempted, and complete at least 12 units through SBCC.
Objectives:
- Develop creativity, conceptualisation, and problem-solving skills, as well as proficiency in industry-standard graphic design tools.
- Enable students to "learn to see" and foster their abilities in creating distinctive and compelling concepts and designs.
- Provide a solid foundation in design principles for entry into the field and continuing education at four-year universities.
Description:
This program combines theoretical fundamentals in design elements and techniques with extensive hands-on practice in digital art tools. The curriculum emphasizes creative problem-solving for various design scenarios, integrating elements like typography, layout, illustration, photography, and color management. Graduates emerge as visually articulate communicators, capable of developing innovative solutions across multiple design mediums.
Outline:
Program Content:
Department Requirements:
These courses form the core curriculum, focusing on the foundational concepts and practical skills of graphic design. They include Digital Literacy for Media Artists and Designers or History of Graphic Design, Typography, Intermediate Graphic Design, Creative Thinking, Graphic Design II, Publication Design, and Portfolio.
Careers:
Potential Career Paths:
The program prepares graduates for roles as graphic designers in various industries including print, digital, and interactive media, as well as opportunities in advertising, branding, and art direction.
Opportunities:
Graduates are presented with job prospects in design studios, digital marketing agencies, publishing houses, in-house marketing teams at corporations, non-profit institutions, and freelance or independent design work.
Outcomes:
Upon completion of the program, successful graduates are equipped with the essential skills and knowledge to design, create and execute high-quality graphic design solutions, enabling them to enter the workforce effectively or pursue advanced education.
Santa Barbara City College
Overview:
Santa Barbara City College (SBCC) is a community college located in Santa Barbara, California. It offers a wide range of academic programs, including transfer degrees, certificates, and non-credit courses. SBCC is known for its diverse student body and its commitment to providing accessible and affordable education.
Services Offered:
SBCC provides a variety of services to its students, including:
Academic advising:
Students can receive personalized guidance on course selection, degree planning, and career exploration.Financial aid:
SBCC offers a variety of financial aid options to help students pay for their education.Career services:
Students can access resources to help them with job searching, resume writing, and career planning.Student support services:
SBCC provides a range of support services, such as tutoring, counseling, and disability services.Library and learning resources:
SBCC has a well-equipped library and learning center with access to books, journals, computers, and other resources.Student Life and Campus Experience:
SBCC offers a vibrant campus experience with opportunities for students to get involved in:
Student clubs and organizations:
Students can join a variety of clubs and organizations based on their interests, such as academic, cultural, and recreational groups.Athletics:
SBCC has a competitive athletics program with teams in various sports.Campus events:
SBCC hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts, lectures, and performances.Key Reasons to Study There:
Affordable tuition:
SBCC offers a relatively low tuition rate compared to other colleges and universities.Transfer opportunities:
SBCC has strong transfer agreements with four-year universities, making it easy for students to continue their education after graduation.Small class sizes:
SBCC offers smaller class sizes, which allows for more personalized attention from instructors.Location:
SBCC is located in a beautiful and vibrant city with access to beaches, mountains, and cultural attractions.Academic Programs:
SBCC offers a wide range of academic programs, including:
Arts and Humanities:
Art, Communication, English, History, Music, Philosophy, Theatre ArtsBusiness and Entrepreneurship:
Business Administration, EntrepreneurshipCulture, Society, and Human Behavior:
Anthropology, Chicano Studies, Communication, Economics, Global and International Studies, History, Law and Society, Political Science, Psychology, SociologyEnglish as a Second Language, Adult High School, GED:
ESL, Adult High School Diploma, GEDHealthcare, Wellness, and Public Service:
Nursing, Dental Hygiene, Emergency Medical Services, Social WorkIndustry and Applied Technologies:
Automotive Technology, Culinary Arts, Welding, Computer ScienceNature, Numbers, and Engineering:
Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, Physics, EngineeringOther:
SBCC is a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI), which means that it serves a significant population of Hispanic students. The college is committed to providing a welcoming and supportive environment for all students.
