2026 - 2027 Catalog
Graphic Design
Objective
Graduates of this program will learn the skills and knowledge to analyze and create unique visual solutions to real world communication problems. Emulating real-world experiences, students will explore key elements of graphic design, including color theory, typography, composition, and image creation and editing. Graduates will apply basic design principles and theories using best practices in creating unique and effective visual content. The program curriculum is aligned with industry-standard processes and software tools, providing our students with the foundational skills for success in their design career. Graduates of this program will be prepared to work in a variety of industries, including specialized design services, marketing and advertising, employment services, print and publication design, and cable, television, and film production.
Typical Career Paths
- Graphic Designer
- Visual Designer
- Graphic Artist
- Production Artist
- Junior Graphic Designer
- Design Specialist
- Visual Information Specialist
- Graphic Specialist
- Creative Graphics Designer
- Digital Designer
- Print Designer
- Motion Graphic Designer
- Visual Media Producer
- Marketing Coordinator/Specialist
- Web Designer
- Video Editor
Applicants for careers in this field may be subject to pre-employment screenings such as, but not limited to, criminal background checks, and drug/or alcohol testing. Employment decisions, including whether to require background checks and other tests, are made at the discretion of the employer. Rasmussen does not pre-screen for enrollment in this program. Any prospective student must consider their history, lifestyle and future actions before enrolling in this program, and carefully consider whether their actions may prevent them from attaining employment in the field they choose to pursue. Additional requirements, such as industry-specific training may be required to obtain employment in this field.
Developmental Education Courses
| Code | Title | Quarter Credits |
| B080 | Reading and Writing Strategies | 4 |
| B087 | Practical Math | 4 |
Developmental Education courses do not count toward total program credits and are not calculated in GPA. Students must demonstrate mastery of the subject matter in Developmental Education courses through a Rasmussen University entrance placement exam, approved exemption based on previously completed coursework, or by passing Developmental Education courses.
Degree Requirements Summary
| General Education Credits | 32 |
| Core Credits | 59 |
| Total Associate’s Degree Credits | 91 |
General Education Courses
Lower Division
| Category | Quarter Credits |
|
English Composition
(Required course)
ENC1101
English Composition +
|
4 |
| Communication (Select 1 course) + | 4 |
|
Humanities
(*Required, select 1 additional course)
*
ART1204
Art Appreciation +
|
8 |
|
Math / Natural Sciences
(*Required, select 1 additional course)
+
*
MAT1222
Algebra +
|
8 |
| Social Sciences (Select 2 courses) + | 8 |
See General Education Course Selections for details.
Core Courses
Lower Division
| Code | Title | Quarter Credits |
| ART1200C | Sketching for Designers | 3 |
| DIG1280C | Audio/Video Editing | 3 |
| DIG2300C | Graphic Design in 3D | 4 |
| GRA1000C | Graphic Design Tools and Techniques | 4 |
| GRA1206C | Typography | 3 |
| GRA1500C | Graphic Design Trends and Movements | 4 |
| GRA1600C | Color Theories and Applications | 3 |
| GRA1700C | Elements and Principles of Graphic Design | 4 |
| GRA1800C | Layout Design | 3 |
| GRA1900C | The Art and Business of Design | 3 |
| GRA2100C | Design for Marketing | 3 |
| GRA2200C | Responsive Web Design | 4 |
| GRA2260C | Graphics in Motion | 4 |
| GRA2700C | Graphic Design Campaigns | 4 |
| GRA2800C | Web Design Fundamentals | 3 |
| GRA2970C | Graphic Design Portfolio | 4 |
| PGY1300C | Digital Photography and Image Editing | 3 |
+Self-directed assessment available; see Self-Directed Assessments for details.
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