Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Arts and Design

Program Overview

Design, create, and explore professional graphic designs for a variety of platforms and develop career ready skills through hands-on learning experiences. 

Program Format

On-Campus

Degree Options

  • Four-Year BA Program

Time to Complete

Full Time: 4 Years

Transfer Pathways: 2 Years

Why Major in Graphic Arts and Design at AIC?

Graphic Arts and Design majors at AIC have access to the latest industry-backed techniques in design coupled with training in visual arts and marketing.

Hands-on learning by experts within the design and marketing fields provides an environment for effective professional relationships, and high-quality work. With experience individually as well as collaboratively, students can expect to conceptualize and properly execute their creative pursuits. 

Gaining confidence and entrepreneurship opportunities, students in this major will be able to develop professional and creative graphic artwork that they can market, sell, and link to broad artistic principles. The value of personal branding and self-promotion helps students gain the necessary tools to flourish in the career they choose.

Graduates will gain professional development opportunities that will aid their careers in fields related to Graphic Arts and Design with confidence. Strong visual communication skills allow students to flourish in their careers after they graduate.

What to Expect

  • Internships: Gain firsthand experience organizing and supporting the arts and events with local organizations. You’ll then discuss your experience at the College of Business, Arts, and Sciences’ Internship Symposium, held every semester.
  • Hands-on learning: Conceptualize and create professional graphic designs for a variety of print and digital media platforms.
  • Industry expertise: Learn from experts in both design and marketing around the principles of brand identity.
  • Jump-start your graduate education: Eligible seniors can take one to two graduate-level courses at the undergraduate rate. As you begin a master’s degree at AIC, your motivation will pay off in terms of time and cost savings.

Program Details

AIC’s Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Arts and Design program couples creative aspirations with professional skills to accurately prepare students for a career in visual communication.

  • Students will conceptualize and create graphics for print and digital arenas.
  • Students will take high quality digital photos.
  • Students will effectively market and advertise their work.
  • Students will design websites.
  • Students will understand and engage in various production techniques.
  • Students will communicate effectively.

Major Courses: In addition to AIC Plan for Excellence (APEX) requirements, students must complete all courses listed here to receive a Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Arts and Design.

  • GAD 1200 Studio Art for the Graphic Artist
  • GAD 1212 Graphic Design I Typography and Web Design
  • COM 1410 Digital Photo I
  • MKT 1450 Principles of Marketing
  • COM 2411 Digital Photo II
  • GAD 2412 Graphic Design II: Production Techniques w lab
  • GAD 2540 Digital Press Production
  • GAD 2740 3D, Screen and Vinyl Printing
  • GAD 3412 Graphic Design III Advanced Typography and Layout Design w Lab
  • COM 3462 Digital Photography III
  • MKT 3500 Advertising
  • GAD 3880 Packaging Design and Publishing
  • GAD 4412 Graphic Design IV: Color Management and Reproduction w Lab
  • GAD 4580 Digital Illustration
  • GAD 4899 Internship

Please reference the current catalog for all course descriptions.

Minor Courses: Students must complete all courses listed here to earn a Minor in Graphic Arts and Design:

  • GAD 1200 Studio Art for the Graphic Artist
  • GAD 1212 Graphic Design I Typography and Web Design
  • COM 1410 Digital Photo I
  • GAD 2412 Graphic Design II: Production Techniques w lab
  • MKT 3500 Advertising
  • GAD 3880 Packaging Design and Publishing

Individuals interested in studying Graphic Arts and Design at AIC—or exploring related studies in The Arts, Media, and Design Hive—will apply for admission as a first-year, transfer, or international student

Review tuition rates and fees for the upcoming academic year.

Scholarships

Grants and scholarships are awarded based on both need and merit.

AIC’s transfer partnerships with Holyoke Community College (HCC) and Springfield Technical Community College (STCC) provide an uninterrupted path from community college to our bachelor’s in Liberal Studies program, as well as a $4,000 per year joint admissions scholarship.

If you have questions on transferring from one of our partner schools, please contact the admissions office at 413.205.3201.

AIC’s many clubs, student organizations, and service opportunities let you meet like-minded, inclusive individuals as you channel your creative passions: 

  • Get published in The Yellow Jacket: Become a contributor to AIC’s long-running student newspaper, reimagined for the 21st century in a new digital format. Learn more.
  • All student groups: Pursue a hobby or embrace your identity while managing a club’s resources, funds, and goals. Browse all student organizations.
  • Leadership development: Through groups, athletics, service, and outreach, Yellow Jackets explore the art of taking charge and how objectives are achieved through motivation, engagement, and vision. Learn more about leadership development.

Have a Question?

Contact our Assistant Dean and Division Chair or email admissions@aic.edu for general college admission requirements.

Frank Borrelli, MFA
Assistant Dean of Student Support and Experiential Learning

Phone: 413.654.1486
Email: frank.borrelli@aic.edu
Hours: 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Academic and Career Support

AIC gives you the space to explore your interest while preparing you for life after college. Throughout, you’ll work with advisors and mentors to define your academic and professional goals and the ways to achieve them.

What Can You Do with a Graphic Arts and Design Degree?

Job Titles

AIC Graphic Arts and Design majors begin careers as:

  • Graphic Designers
  • Interior Designers 
  • Special Effects Artists and Animators
  • Advertising Agency Team
  • Brand Identity Designer

Salary Expectations

Each year through 2034, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects more than a combined 84,900 openings in the arts/design fields, including for:

Where Our Graduates Work

Graduates from AIC including Graphic Arts and Design graduates have found work in and outside the community including:

  • MGM Springfield 
  • Mashpee Creative Children’s Center 
  • Boston Public Schools 
  • Dundee Stars 
  • The Evergreen Center 
  • The Social Hub

Related Programs

Whatever educational or career goals are on the horizon, AIC’s programs offer real-world experience to set you on your path:

Ready to Take the Next Step?

At AIC, your passions will lead you on the path to professional success: