Academic Catalogs

Graphic Design, Associate in Science Degree

Banner Code: 1_AS_DMAG

Control Number: 03997

Financial Aid Eligible


This program presents a concentrated course of study in the field of digital media arts and design. Concept development and the generation of a portfolio suitable for job applications or transfer to a degree program is a major focus in each of the core courses.

Courses emphasize the process and problem-solving in conjunction with visual design issues. DMAD graphic design courses provide broad-based entry level training for a variety of graphic design industries. Students are introduced to a broad range of media, including branding, publications, posters, print advertisements, website graphics, billboards and product packaging, as well as strategies and the techniques required to incorporate these areas into print and online.

Complete the Graphic Design Certificate of Achievement and the Associate in Science graduation requirements as outlined in the Graduation Requirements section of the catalog.

Program Outcomes

  1. Apply the principles of color, composition, hierarchy, typography as they relate in the various design media utilizing industry standard graphics software.
  2. Apply critical thinking and aesthetic judgment to demonstrate the ability to analyze, synthesize, and develop probable graphic design solutions.
  3. Develop an original, innovative and articulate body of graphic design work for a professional portfolio for the purpose of gaining employment and/or acceptance to an Art College or University.

Review Graduation Requirements and General Education

Course Title Units
Required Courses
ART A110Color and Design: Two-Dimensional3
ART A180Professional Studies2-2.5
or DMAD A202 Studio Internship Prep
DMAD A115Typography I3
DMAD A116Typography II3
DMAD A117Rapid Illustration Techniques3
DMAD A151History of Graphic Design3
DMAD A181Introduction to Computer Graphics3
DMAD A182Graphic Design3
DMAD A183InDesign for Design3
DMAD A190Illustrator for Design3
DMAD A193Photoshop for Design3
DMAD A200Designing for the Web3
or DMAD A280 2D Animation
or ART A170 Printmaking 1
or ART A175 Screen Process Printing 1
DMAD A288Digital Portfolio Development3
Total Units38-38.5
Requirement Units
Program Major Units 38-38.5
AS General Education Option 1, 2, or 3 Varies
Transferable electives to satisfy unit requirement Varies
Total Minimum Degree Units 60

Program Sequence

These sequences at Orange Coast College are general course curriculum maps for students to finish all major and general education requirements for two-year completion of degrees, and/or fulfillment of transfer requirements. The course sequence may include course prerequisites and other placement requirements. Students are advised to meet with an Orange Coast College Counselor to review course selections and sequences to ensure that completion of this program will meet a student's transfer and career goals.

Plan of Study Grid
Year 1
Semester 1Units
ART A110 Color and Design: Two-Dimensional 3
DMAD A117 Rapid Illustration Techniques 3
DMAD A151 History of Graphic Design 3
DMAD A181 Introduction to Computer Graphics 3
OCC AS GE AREA A1 - CHOOSE ONE 3
 Units15
Semester 2
DMAD A115 Typography I 3
DMAD A190 Illustrator for Design 3
DMAD A193 Photoshop for Design 3
OCC AS GE AREA C2 - CHOOSE ONE 3
ELECTIVES(DEGREE APPLICABLE) 3 4
 Units16
Year 2
Semester 1
DMAD A116 Typography II 3
DMAD A182 Graphic Design 3
DMAD A200
Designing for the Web
or 2D Animation
or Printmaking 1
or Screen Process Printing 1
3
OCC AS GE AREA A2 - CHOOSE ONE 1 3-4
Select one of the following or satisfy Math competency (completion of High School Algebra 2 with a "C" or better): 3-4
Intermediate Algebra (or higher) 2
or Combined Elementary and Intermediate Algebra
 Units15-17
Semester 2
ART A180
Professional Studies
or Studio Internship Prep
2-2.5
DMAD A183 InDesign for Design 3
DMAD A288 Digital Portfolio Development 3
OCC AS GE AREA B - CHOOSE ONE 3-4
OCC AS GE AREA D - CHOOSE ONE 3
 Units14-15.5
 Total Units60-63.5
1

OCC AS GE AREA A2 - Required if 100-level MATH will not be taken to meet Math competency. If MATH A100 or higher will be taken, then needs to take 3-4 degree applicable elective units 

2

Math A030 or higher OR take 3-4 degree applicable elective units if math competency was met through completion of High School Algebra 2 with a "C" or better; *100-level Math courses satisfy AS Math Requirement and OCC AS GE AREA A2 

3

VARIES TO REACH MINIMUM 60 DEGREE APPLICABLE UNITS