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Awards | Credits | Course Delivery |
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Graphic Design Technology - A.A.S. Degree | 70 cr. | On Campus |
Download the Graphic Design Technology Datasheet | Program Datasheet:
This program prepares students to explore, plan, design and produce visual solutions to graphic design communications problems. Graphic designers work to discover the most effective way to communicate in print, web, and interactive media. Students develop skills and knowledge in design concepts, typography, layout, illustration, animation, web content and computer software to create graphic designs for a variety of purposes.
This program offers Credit for Prior Learning (CPL). Seek credit for life experience to accelerate your progress toward a degree, diploma, or certificate. Visit the Credit for Prior Learning page to learn more.
I chose DCTC because I wanted smaller class sizes and a hands-on experience pertaining to my major versus what I would find at a university. What I liked best about DCTC was the frequent one-on-one interaction with my instructors and the large variety of class choices. Class sizes were kept small, so I was able to get the extra interaction I needed to complete projects to my full potential. Also, with the variety of class choices, I was able to sneak in some extra photography classes to expand my skills.
I really enjoyed the instructors and the experience they had to offer their students. It was very inspiring to see first-hand the different career paths I could take with Graphic Design Technology and Applied Visual Arts A.A.S. degrees.
The one thing I didn't realize as a student at DCTC and I still think most people don't know is that most completed course credits can transfer from DCTC to an accredited institution. This is very beneficial because I was able to complete my Associate in Applied Science degree at DCTC and then transfer my credits and get a bachelor’s degree only a year and a half later. Through this experience, I found the program and staff at DCTC to be top-notch and easily comparable to that of a four-year college, but at only one quarter the price.
The most important thing I learned is that although technology is constantly on the move and changing, old skills and practices will never go out of style or be forgotten. You must learn the fundamentals in to succeed. You must be ready to work hard and get your hands dirty! Your education and future is what you make of it. Don't take the easy road; the hard one pays off in the end.
I really enjoyed my time at DCTC and would recommend the Graphic Design Technology and Applied Visual Arts programs to anyone thinking about pursuing a career in these fields. After graduating from DCTC, I worked at Küryakyn, an aftermarket motorcycle parts corporation in Somerset, Wis., and now I’m a designer at Olson, one of the top design agencies in North America.
I earned two degrees at DCTC, an A.A.S. in Multimedia & Web Design and an A.A.S. in Graphic Design Technology. I am now a Web designer for the State of Minnesota. I chose DCTC because I wanted to change careers and go into Web design. After doing some comparisons, I thought DCTC had a strong program that offered the education I needed to get started.
Everyone at DCTC is friendly and helpful, and the teachers in the Visual Communications department are fantastic. They are knowledgeable and hands-on—and they encourage you to push beyond what you think you can do. I enjoyed the camaraderie and support among the students and teachers as well as the sense of accomplishment as I learned each new skill.
VCOM at DCTC offers an exceptionally well-rounded education. You don't just learn how to click the right button to make something happen; you gain a good basic foundation in the principles of design and the creative process.
My education at DCTC has given me the confidence and skills to pursue my new career in design. I was doing freelance work, but I soon found the right opportunity to complete the transition to full-time designer.
As a student in the program you should work hard. The more you put into it, the more you will get out of it. And don't be intimidated by what you don't know—you will learn. That's why you're here.
My name is Kelsey Degenaar and my choice to go to DCTC was a great decision and played a huge part in getting me my current job. I work for Coca-Cola Refreshments in their Eagan print shop. I have been working there since October 2012 starting as an intern and then moving my way up. I would recommend DCTC's Graphic Design Technology program to anyone serious about getting school completed and learning a lot about design on your way.
After getting my A.A. degree from Inver Hills Community College and attending both the University of Minnesota, Duluth, and University of Minnesota, Twin Cities, I would say that I know a fair amount about different schools and there graphic design programs. When attending the U of M, I was told that after I had been in school already for three years that it was going to take another three years for me to graduate. Once I heard that, I knew I needed to start looking other places to finish up my schooling. I looked online at DCTC because I had heard good things about the college in the past and thought it would be worth a visit to see what credits of mine they would take. It turned out they took all my previous credits and said I could graduate in a year and a half. I signed up that day!
The teachers are my favorite part about the program. They are highly qualified, knowledgeable about design and push their students to better their best. They were some of the best teachers that I have ever had because they not only help you in your schoolwork, but in your job search as well. A lot of people have a misconception about two-year schools thinking that it’s not as good of an education or a university program would be better. Well, at DCTC that is the exact opposite; the teachers are great and I learned more about my major in a year in a half then I ever did at a university.
My education from DCTC has put me in a place where I feel I can walk into an interview and be proud of my portfolio, my ability to communicate and my computer skills. I can tell people with pride that I went to school at DCTC because every day you are there you learn vital skills about not only your major, but also about how to get out in the field and interview, network and find a job. The VCOM teachers prepare their students for the real world of design and help them get out into the workplace. For example, I got my internship at Coke through a VCOM teacher. The Graphic Design Technology instructors make an effort to not only be good teachers, but also great people.
I strongly recommend DCTC's Graphic Design Technology program. If you are looking for a school that is serious about not only teaching you what you need to know about design, but also how to find a job within your major, then DCTC is right for you.
I chose DCTC following the recommendation of a friend who attended and spoke highly of the IT and Visual Communication departments. Also, DCTC is affordable and I needed somewhere that had flexible class schedules because I was working full-time during the day.
I really think the teachers are great. If you need any extra help or have questions, they always have time for you. I also love the smaller class sizes. It gives you time to get to know the students in your class and the teachers.
I most enjoy the atmosphere here at DCTC. There is such a variety of people attending whether they just graduated high school, are still in high school, or going back to school after a long hiatus. There is no “normal” here and there’s always someone you can relate with.
I think the one thing I never expected to get out of the Graphic Design Technology program is growth in self-confidence. It's easy to compare your work with others and feel like you might not measure up. The teachers here motivate you to give your best and it often pays off. I've become much more confident in the projects I produce because of the encouragement I’m given by teachers and classmates alike. You grow at DCTC in your education and as a person.
The Visual Communications department is excellent and relevant. The teachers have personal experience in the programs and classes they teach.
I graduated from Dakota County Technical College with a Graphic Design A.A.S degree, a Multimedia & Web Design A.A.S degree and an an Interactive Media Design Certificate.
During 3 years of studies in DCTC, I learned the up-to-date technology such as the latest version of Adobe products, mobile app design, responsive Web design, Web content management systems like Wordpress, Drupal and Joomla. Meanwhile, I established strong design basic on typography, layout, perspective drawing and design principles. I was trained to have eyes for details, and hands on production work.
The instructors in DCTC are helpful, patient, and friendly. They not only helped me with any technical problems but also helped me with emotional difficulties. Even after graduation, the instructors are still happy to help me with any issue. The instructors and employment advisors informs us immediately whenever there is a job lead. Thanks to the job lead sent from DCTC, I got my current internship with the Minnesota Historical Society. The strong knowledge foundation from DCTC makes my internship in MNHS efficient and meaningful.
DCTC provides us a good start on the design field and always informs us new design trends and technologies through Facebook and VCOM blog. We benifits from DCTC even after graduation. The money I spent on studies in DCTC are more than worthy. We can also work-study while we are at school. Through the 10 months work-study experience in the marketing department of DCTC, I not only learned practical workplace skills, made friends, but also got paid.
Words can never express my thankfulness to DCTC. Thank you very much, DCTC.
Graphic Design Technology A.A.S. Degree • 70 credits |
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Tuition | $191.98/cr. |
Student Fees | $30.65/cr. |
Textbooks | $590 |
Grand Total | $16,174.10 |
Each year, Dakota County Technical College and the DCTC Foundation make more than $200,000 in scholarships available to our students. Students are encouraged to create an account and apply for scholarships online.
Students looking for ways to help finance their college education can find part-time jobs on campus with various DCTC departments and programs. Deliver your completed Work-Study Application to the Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid and search for openings on Handshake. For more information, you can review Work Study Procedure.
Step 1: Apply now for financial aid. Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA)
DCTC's Federal School Code: 010402
Step 2: After receiving an official award letter from DCTC, you may apply online for a Federal Stafford Student Loan. Visit the Loans page for more information.
Performing much of their work on a computer, graphic designers work closely with internal and external clients on advertising, marketing, and promotional projects for a range of organizations and businesses.
According to O*Net Online, occupations in this field are expected to experience moderate growth in the next several years.
If you are looking to bring in any college credit, visit our Transfer To DCTC Resource Page and DCTC will help you through the process.
If you are looking to transfer to a 4-year institution after completing your degree, DCTC can help you through the process! Check out our Transfer From DCTC Resource Page.
Transferology is used to find out how your courses might transfer to DCTC and any of the participating schools in the Transferology network. Get an account for free and create a plan now!
The Graphic Design Technology program at DCTC is active throughout the year and makes headlines in college publications. Read about student success in design competitions, student field trips, student projects and the accomplishments of our graphic design instructors.
You can stay current with things happening in the Graphic Design Technology program and the graphic design field by following the Graphic Design blog.
As a student in DCTC's Web Design program, you have many opportunities to make connections in the Web and design industry through your involvement in professional clubs and organizations.
AIGA
The American Institute of Graphic Arts, or AIGA, is the planet's oldest and largest professional membership organization for design with 67 chapters and more than 23,000 members nationwide. As a student in the Multimedia & Web Design program, you will make the most of AIGA's vast cache of design resources, including inspirational advice from the industry's top professionals as well as news about upcoming design events and competitions. You will also have a picture window into critical information that can and will augment your professional development.
DCTC features active, industry-relevant clubs for Web Design students right on campus. Getting involved in these clubs allows you to make the most of your college experience and gives you an edge when seeking employment in the Web design field. The following clubs are a must if you're at all interested in boosting your competitive moxie as a Web designer:
American Institute of Graphic Arts (AIGA) Club
As the profession’s oldest and largest professional membership organization for design—with more than 70 chapters and more than 25,000 members—we advance design as a professional craft, strategic advantage, and vital cultural force. From content that defines the global practice to events that connect and catalyze, we work to enhance the value and deepen the impact of design across all disciplines on business, society, and our collective future. Here at DCTC we strive to help educate growing professionals, and foster a strong community of design-minded individuals
SkillsUSA
SkillsUSA is a national nonprofit organization for students at community and technical colleges across the U.S. The organization focuses on students in academic programs that lead to careers in the trade, industrial, technical and health care fields. Nearly 100 SkillsUSA competitions at the state and national levels relate to leadership skills or programs of study at DCTC.
For a complete list of extracurricular opportunities at DCTC, visit our Campus Life page.