People who are interested in studying
communication design online can find opportunities available at the
associate's, bachelor's and master's degree level. Communication design,
or visual communication, is comparable to graphic design, and those
interested in a communication design program online may also want to
take a look at graphic design programs.
Associate's Degree in Communication Design Overview
Associate's degree programs in communication or graphic design are commonly offered online. Students learn the different components of communication design, including typography, packaging, branding and identity. They learn how to use different tools to create their designs, including Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator, computer scanners and digital photography.Program Information and Requirements
These programs usually take two years to complete, and many schools offer programs that can be completed fully online.Students may be required to have certain software programs on their computers, such as Adobe Creative Suite, Adobe Acrobat, QuickTime and Microsoft Office. Students may also be required to have certain specifications on their computers, such as a minimum amount of RAM, hard-disk space and processing speeds.
List of Common Communication Design Courses
In addition to design courses, students have to take general education courses in social science, natural science, humanities, math and communication.Color Theory Course
Students learn both practical and aesthetic applications of color. The topics cover the role color plays in communication and the expression of ideas.Typography Course
In this course, students learn the different aspects of typography and letterforms, including kerning, copy fitting and type specification. Typography is looked at as a design element, and students learn how to use type as a means of communicating ideas with others.Digital Image Manipulation Course
Students learn different means of manipulating images, including airbrushing, photo retouching, photo restoration, compositing and color correction. Students also learn batch processing, color spotting and how to deal with production issues.History of Design Course
This course introduces students to important designers and typographers that have shaped graphic and communication design. Students also learn about the technical innovations, cultural events and design movements that have influenced communication design.Career Information for Graduates
Graduates are prepared for careers as graphic designers, illustrators, website developers and advertising specialists. Possible employers include advertising agencies, government agencies, corporations and entertainment companies. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics expects employment of graphic designers to increase by 13% between 2008 and 2018, which is about as fast as average for all occupations (www.bls.gov). The BLS shows that graphic designers earned an average salary of $47,820 in 2009.Bachelor of Fine Arts in Communication Design Overview
Bachelor's degree programs in communication design allow students to choose an area of concentration, such as digital design, graphic design, web design or illustration. Throughout their course of study, students learn how to solve design problems by developing concepts, thinking strategically and coming up with innovative applications of design techniques. Some of the topics covered include typography, branding, identity, packaging, digital media and different print mediums.Program Information and Requirements
A bachelor's degree program can typically be completed within four years. Some programs may also be offered as degree completion programs for students who have already completed their lower division requirements, and others may offer condensed programs for those who have earned a bachelor's degree in another area. In these cases, students can earn their degrees in as little as two years after starting their program. It is possible to find programs that are offered fully online.Students need to have e-mail and understand how to use instant messaging, chat forums and message boards. While instructors require students to participate in online discussions through these mediums, they also allow students to ask questions and get feedback about assignments and tests.
List of Common Communication Design Courses
Students enrolled in bachelor's degree programs in communication design need to take general education courses and core design courses. Some of these courses may include social science, natural science and communication.Typography Course
The typography course focuses on both digital and printed formats. Students learn how to apply typography to their personal design styles through different projects.Design Development Course
Students are encouraged to conduct research and critically assess the designs of others. Keeping in mind what needs to be communicated to their audience, students apply innovative uses of typography, imagery and formatting to their designs.Computer Design Course
Students are taught how to digitally manipulate images in their work. This is an opportunity for students to become familiar with various software programs and applications.Print and Digital Media Course
After identifying a target audience, students develop concepts and designs that appeal to a specific audience. Students learn the best visual formats in a variety of different media for effectively communicating desired messages.Senior Portfolio Course
Students compile a professional body of work to market themselves to potential employers. Students assess the work they have done and modify it in order to showcase their design skills in the best way possible.Career Information for Graduates
Potential careers for graduates include typography designer, graphic designer, production artist, brand designer and communications director. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salaries of graphic designers vary based on the industry in which they are employed (www.bls.gov). Those who worked in advertising earned an average salary of $48,210 in 2009, while those who worked in the motion picture industry earned an average of $64,710. Depending on the industry, graphic designers can expect to earn anywhere from $40,000 to over $70,000 per year.Master of Fine Arts in Communication Design Overview
Master's degree programs are rarely offered online, but some online programs do exist. Students enrolled in these programs learn to think strategically, conceptually and innovatively. Students continue to refine their skills in the areas of typography, branding, packaging, identity, print media and digital media. Emphasis is placed on the mastery of communication design techniques.Program Information and Requirements
Communication design students enrolled in master's degree programs typically need to complete between 60 to 65 semester units. The time required to complete a master's degree is often just over two years. Students communicate with their classmates and instructors through online discussions, e-mail, telephone and fax.Computers may be required to have a certain operating system and DVD-ROM drive. Certain electronic equipment may also be necessary, such as a digital camera, flatbed scanner, digital drawing tablet and printer. In addition to having the technical requirements, students may be required to purchase software programs and textbooks for specific courses.
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