When you enter the Associate of Applied Arts degree program in Graphic Design at The Art Institute of Dallas and The Art Institute of Fort Worth, you will be offered a thorough grounding in fundamental graphic design skills and techniques from faculty with solid academic credentials in design-related disciplines and experience in the graphic design industry. Moving from fundamental courses such as drawing, design, color theory, typography, and composition layout, you will advance to intermediate-level courses such as publication design, electronic print production, and package design.

Two of the most essential tools in the designer?s arsenal, concepting and brainstorming, will remain a primary focus throughout your course of study as you have the opportunity to learn how to create original visual communications in order to convey your message. In the final two quarters of the program, you will be required to develop a professional-level portfolio that displays your skills and knowledge - the most important tool you have to showcase your talents to prospective employers!

The purpose of the Associate of Applied Arts degree program in Graphic Design is to prepare students to successfully seek employment in the field of graphic design in an entry-level position. Students? knowledge should encompass a combination of visual, manual, and computer skills as well as familiarity with the industry-standard software used to complete assignments. Within this framework, our goal is to instill a sense of self-reliance and to develop confidence and interpersonal team skills while producing quality work with strict adherence to deadlines.

Whether a class is based on hand skills or the correct use of a software product, emphasis is placed on following good design procedures from detailed research to the final on-time, high quality finished product. Through achieving these educational goals, students can pursue entry-level graphic design jobs with the essential tools necessary for a rewarding career.

The Associate of Applied Arts program in Graphic Design is designed to prepare graduates to seek entry-level employment in the graphic design industry in such positions as printing technician, production artist, or layout artist. Depending upon skill and knowledge levels, opportunities may also be available for entrepreneurial graduates to enter the market as freelance designers.