AA in Visual Communications

Las Positas College

The Visual Communications program teaches students to apply graphic design and digital media principles to create effective communication pieces through the use of colour, type, and imagery.

Students learn the principles of design and composition, typography, digital image manipulation, print and web page layout, and an array of technical skills using Adobe’s Creative Suite—Illustrator, Photoshop, In Design, and Acrobat. In the web program, students will also learn to use Dreamweaver to work with HTML and CSS.

Students will not only work with the latest digital tools for creating captivating images and graphics, but will also learn how to effectively use the concepts and principles of design using colours, typography, and composition in developing their work.

Students who graduate from the Visual Communications program can look forward to working as art directors, graphic designers, web designers, and graphic artists.

In both the AA and certificate program, students learn advanced production techniques and produce client-based work for print, web and multimedia. Upon graduation, students will have completed a professional-level and be ready to go out into the work force.

Program Outcomes

Demonstrate a sophisticated level of visual literacy and technical competence in conceptualizing, creating, and delivering graphic design work developed with digital software.

Demonstrate the ability to critically evaluate quality and effectiveness of Design Projects

Career Opportunities

With the certificate or AA degree, students can gain entry to intermediate level employment in a variety of design jobs, with an emphasis in web or print production. All students can improve their communications skills and transition into careers in marketing, senior level design positions, and many other media-related careers such as animation and packaging design. Many students who plan a career in visual communications continue on for a Bachelor’s degree.