Graphic Communication

Quick Facts

Graphic communication professionals create print or digital visuals that communicate ideas and messages.

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Job Titles & Career Info

Our Program

Why Choose Graphic Communication?

  • Learn in-demand software skills you can use in a variety of work settings
  • Prepare for entry-level positions in graphic production & design
  • Learn how to use both your artistic & technical skills to:
    • Solve design problems
    • Correct colors
    • Edit images
    • Restore photos

Prepare for What You Will Do at Work

  • Create artwork for print & web, including logo, brochure & poster design as well as illustration & animation
  • Prepare digital files for creation of signage & publications, such as magazines & books
  • Prepare graphics for instructional presentations & illustrations for learning environments
  • Create graphics with speed & accuracy

Marketable Skills You Will Learn

  • Critical thinking
  • Reasoning
  • Communication
  • Personal & social responsibility
  • Teamwork
  • Computer literacy

Before You Enroll, Think About:

  • Our program is not intended to apply to a 4-year graphics degree, and courses do not typically transfer to a university.
  • Our courses are rigorous, and assignments have hard deadlines.
  • You must be able to work independently, problem solve, and meet all deadlines.
  • Customer service skills and the ability to follow directions are essential.
  • 3 skills or work style traits that will help you succeed in this field:
    • Attention to detail
    • Innovation
    • Creativity

Plan Your Courses

We strongly recommend you talk to an advisor before registering, so you can  take the courses in the recommended order and be successful.

Full-time student? You should balance a couple of graphics courses with required academic courses in a single semester, so you are not overwhelmed with the workload.

Computer Equipment & Software

The Graphic Communication Lab is a dedicated computer lab available to students in our program. The lab provides industry-standard tools and technology, like Mac computers, Adobe Creative Cloud, Wacom tablets, and more.

Lab policies will be reviewed during the first week of class and posted in the lab.

However, while not required, owning a computer and subscribing to the Adobe Creative Cloud software will give you greater flexibility to spend time on assignments outside of class. Meeting assignment deadlines will be easier.

Need a boost to get ready for college?

Talk to your advisor about Developmental Studies if your TSI scores say you need some help in math or reading and writing.

Degrees & Certificates

Degree

Certificates

Level 1

How Much Time & Money to Finish?

2024–2025 Academic Year

Degree or Certificate Program Title Semester Credit Hours Total Tuition & Fees
AAS Graphic Communication 60 $4,440
CRT1 Computer Graphics 36 $2,664
CRT1 Photographic Retouching 15 $1,110

Notes:

  • Tuition is based on in-state, in-county rates.
  • Totals do not include textbooks and other materials.

Continuing Education Programs

Time commitments and fees vary depending on the course.

Earn More Choices & More Money

Transfer to a college or university to continue your studies. Earning a bachelor’s degree opens the door to promotion opportunities.

While our program is designed to prepare you to enter the workforce, you may be ready to work toward a Bachelor of Applied Science—depending on the university.

Next steps

Start on Your Pathway!

Contact

Northeast Campus

Lynn Dally
Coordinator

Email lynn.dally@tccd.edu

Updated July 14, 2025