Computer Graphic Design—Print Certificate (CGDC)

This certificate is for students with prior computer knowledge, business experience, or a degree in a computer-related field who wish to upgrade their skills for personal or professional use. You will learn basic techniques for creating effective promotional pieces such as advertisements, brochures, flyers, logos, and digital artwork through the use of state-of-the-art computer technology and the latest graphic design software. In addition to learning page layout software, design theory and techniques, and preparing design work for print, you’ll learn advanced computer skills such as digital imaging and electronic illustration.

Campus/format: This program can be completed during the day at the Gardner Campus.

Helpful hints: CGDC students should either have a computer at home with Internet access or be able to spend time outside of class in the computer lab where Internet access is provided.

Transfer options: Some courses in the CGDC Print Certificate may be applied to MWCC’s CGD Print Degree. Consult with your academic adviser.

Special requirements: CGDC students are required to take all CGDC courses as listed by semester. Technical standards must be met with or without accommodations.

Career options: Graphic designers may be employed by advertising agencies, design firms, marketing departments, commercial art, reproduction firms, or printing and publishing companies. Also, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, many graphic designers are self-employed.

Earning potential: $40,451 to $52,207 per year.

*Note: Should be taken in the fall. CGD104 must be taken first or concurrently with CGD101.
**Note: This course should be taken in the spring
†CGD Print Professional Electives (Please consult with your adviser)
CGD102 Publication Design (Advanced InDesign and QuarkXPress)
CGD106 Portfolio Preparation (Capstone Course-see prerequisites)
CGD110 Introduction to Animation and Game Design (Flash)

CGD112 Communication in Design and Technology
CGD204 Advanced Digital Imaging (Photoshop/ImageReady)
CGD205 Digital Photo Art (Photoshop)
CGD235 Typography in Visual Communication (InDesign)
CGD241 Integrated Website Designs (Advanced Authoring: Dreamweaver)
CGD242 Multimedia Motion Graphics (Advanced Flash)
ART251 Two-Dimensional Design
ART263 Drawing I
BCT115 Digital Photography
BCT235 DVD Authoring
MGT110 Small Business Management
THE113 Speech
BUS125 Communication for Business and Industry

Elective courses by abbreviation

Technical Standards*

Students entering these programs must be able to demonstrate the ability to:

1. Comprehend textbook material at the 11th grade level.
2. Communicate and assimilate information either in spoken, printed, signed, or computer voice format.
3. Gather, analyze, and draw conclusions from data.
4. Write at a college level as evidenced by completion of ENG100 or placement into ENG101.
5. Read and proof printed text from a computer screen, with or without corrective adaptive devices.
6. Exhibit social skills appropriate to professional interactions.
7. Perceive, interpret, and utilize graphic images in their entirety from a computer screen.