Online Computer Graphics Degree Program Options

Computer graphics courses can be taken through an online graphic design (or multimedia-related) degree program. Web-based distance-learning programs in this field are readily available at the associate's and bachelor's degree levels.

Online Computer Graphics Associate's Degree Program Overview

Computer graphics is often a course taken in association with a graphic design degree program. Some programs provide a general overview of graphic arts while others focus on developing images for websites. Because this field is often related to marketing and advertising, all students learn to design a concept via computer software that can effectively be received by a specific audience. They also learn the basic functions and applications of related hardware, such as digital cameras and scanners. Associate-level graphic design courses are readily available online.

Program Information and Requirements

Associate's degree programs can be anywhere from 60 to 110 credit-hours in length. Because online coursework offers flexible pacing, students can graduate in five semesters, but typically take two years. Some schools offer a hybrid format with campus-based components, but students can still decide when to attend on-campus courses. Online, students are able to communicate via e-mail with professors and peers.
Technical requirements may vary based on whether the student uses a PC or Mac. Typically, aspiring graphic designers need to have Microsoft Office, Adobe Dreamweaver, Illustrator, InDesign, Photoshop and Flash Professional. Additionally, they must have continued, reliable, high-speed access to the Internet.

Computer Graphics Associate's Degree Courses

In the distance-learning format, study materials are all provided online and students often have access to virtual tutorials and other resources. In addition to computer graphic design courses, students must complete required general education courses to graduate.

Animation on the Web Course

This course discusses the parameters one must work within when designing animation to be used on a website. Students learn about formatting, optimizing file-sizes, automating animation and other design principles.

Fundamentals of Graphic Design Course

Students learn about the programs that are used when designing graphics. The program provides training in basic print production, typography, layout principles and vector graphic design.

Advanced Web Design Course

In this course, students build upon prior training as they learn about Web design and Web coding. Peers compare work and analyze how websites are put together by studying examples that already exist.

Career Information

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), most entry-level graphic design careers require candidates to hold a minimum of a bachelor's degree. With an associate's degree, students can usually find work as a graphic designer's assistant. The same source states that those who specialize in Web-based and animated graphic design have a better chance of finding entry-level employment due to high demand in the field. Job prospects are reportedly good for those who have studied advertising and marketing (www.bls.gov).

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Online Computer Graphics Bachelor's Degree Program Overview

A graphic design bachelor's degree program instructs students on computer graphic standards and the basics of working in the field, either through an advertising agency or as a freelancer. Enrollees work with computers, fixing digital images and designing material for use on websites, ads and instructional materials. In addition to learning about computer graphics in terms of composition, design, typography and color, participants also learn about production and electronic imaging.

Program Information and Requirements

Online graphic design bachelor's degree programs are generally between 120 and 180 credit-hours in length. Most programs incorporate general education into the curriculum and can be completed in four years. However, some programs are specifically designed for those who already hold an associate's degree in graphic design or a related field. This type of degree completion or accelerated program is generally two years in length does not require students to enroll in any general education courses.
Applicants are expected to own a computer that has a reliable connection to the Internet. Some programs require the student to have access to a scanner and printer, along with other hardware. Software requirements typically include Adobe Illustrator, Adobe InDesign and Adobe Photoshop.

Online Computer Graphics Course Information

Most programs combine core graphic design courses with elective and general education classes. Web design degree programs may not cover graphic design fundamentals due to prerequisite requirements already covering the subject.

Design History Course

This course provides an overview of the different types of visual arts that have influenced the graphic design field. Students also learn about modern trends in the industry and how they relate to what has happened in the past. The course outlines the social and economic impact graphic design has had on industries such as marketing.

Electronic Production Course

This course employs the use of computers in the preparation of digital media for physical production. Students learn the specifics of color, image reproduction and typesetting. Upon completion of digital production, enrollees learn how to physically assemble pages by binding and trapping paperwork.

Design for Communication Course

Visual stimulus plays an important role in a corporate setting. Students analyze how typography and other graphic engagement techniques are employed to effectively communicate the messages to employees and customers.

Career Information

According the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of graphic designers is expected to grown by 13% nationwide between 2008 and 2018. The BLS also states that the average annual wage for a graphic designer was $42,400 as of May 2008. Job prospects are expected to be better for those who focus their education and training on computer and technology-based design degree programs.

Continuing Education Information

There are very few computer graphics degree programs available online at the graduate degree level. Options include a Master of Fine Arts in Computer Art or Graphic Design. Prospective graduate students can more easily find these advanced programs on the physical campuses of colleges and universities, although some classes may be completed on the Web.