Graphic Design and Visual Communications

MCTC's Graphic Design Program will teach you how to visually communicate important messages and electronically prepare your work for printed reproduction of catalogs, brochures, book jackets, advertisements, packaging, point-of-purchase and more.

The program's core set of classes will allow you to specialize in graphic design, or migrate to the Electronic Publishing or Web Design Program.

In addition, MCTC offers specialized courses to accommodate both degree-seeking students and industry professionals.

Your coursework will cover visual problem solving, art and design principles, and print production standards using computer and current design software to create visual solutions for your final projects.

Experienced faculty will teach you how visual elements such as type, graphics, illustration and photography work together to make a design more effective. To simulate a professional creative environment, you will work under tight deadlines to design, layout and produce a variety of printed pieces. Students' finished projects will create a well-rounded portfolio necessary for entry into the design profession.

Program faculty will help you prepare your portfolio and give you guidelines on job seeking. Students are required to exhibit their work in the program portfolio show. Faculty members have developed numerous award-winning partnerships within the industry and community, and students benefit in numerous ways from these alliances.

To successfully complete the program and work in this profession, you will need to own, or have access to, a computer and current design software. You also will need to purchase a large-format portable storage device.

MCTC has an articulation agreement with Metropolitan State University and Bemidji State University.

Degrees, diplomas and certificates

Graphic Design and Visual Communications A.A.S. Degree
- articulation: B.A.S., Advertising and Applied Visual Arts, Metropolitan State University
Graphic Design and Visual Communications Diploma

Refer to the 2009-10 College Catalog for the requirements to degrees, diplomas and/or certificates available through the Graphic Design and Visual Communications program.

Read MCTC's articulation agreements with other colleges and universities.

Faculty/staff listing

Name	Office	Phone
Hendricks, Bill	T.4511	612-659-6455
Faculty
Jacobson, Jake	T.4533	612-659-6053
Faculty
Lotzow, Will	T.4534	612-659-6000
Continuing Ed		x4078
Lyman, Barbara	T.4532	612-659-6000
Faculty		x4079
Mehaffey, Judith	T.3000	612-659-6118
Office & Admin Specialist
Michels, Dianne	T.3942	612-659-6088
Faculty
Nelson, Diane	T.4531	612-659-6094
Faculty
Sather, Samantha	T.4534	612-659-6000
Faculty		x4050
Senum, Amoreena	T.4512	612-659-6600
CLA1- Graphic Design

Frequently asked questions

How much will I pay for tuition and fees?: The cost per credit tuition rates for both residents and non-residents may be found on the “How much are tuition and fees” webpage located in the Current Students section of our website. Also, financial aid is available to qualified students.
Are there any additional costs for this program?: Other costs vary by course and include books and traditional hand tools for layout, design, drawing and painting. Since virtually all professional graphic design is done in a digital environment, large-format digital storage devices and other computer accessories are needed.
Do I need to own a computer?: While MCTC offers a large computer lab with extensive lab hours and offering both Macintosh and Windows platforms, most students find it advantageous to own their own computer. The preferred computer platform used by the professional in the industry is the Macintosh.
What additional requirements are needed to enter this program?: You must fulfill certain academic requirements to begin coursework in this program. A comprehensive listing of requirements is available on the website.
Where would I work once I complete the Graphic Design & Visual Communication program?: As a graduate of this program, you may and work in such places as advertising agencies, art studios, corporate art departments, government institutions, graphic design firms, marketing/public relation firms, printing/publishing firms, and retail/merchandising companies.
What is the average wage in this career?: In the Twin Cities, the estimated entry wage for Graphic Designers is $14.48 per hour. A strong portfolio is essential for entering the field.
What makes MCTC the best choice to start a career in Graphic Design & Visual Communication?: Students will receive hands-on instruction from certified instructors in an industry-based environment. The downtown Minneapolis campus is on a bus line and is also close to numerous potential employment opportunities.
What if I want to pursue a 4-year degree?: If you are seeking a 4-year degree, MCTC is part of the Minnesota General Education Transfer Curriculum (MnTC) which makes transfer to other 2- and 4-year public colleges virtually seamless. MCTC has an articulation agreement with Metropolitan State University where you can apply your MCTC Graphic Design & Visual Communication and general education coursework toward a 4-year degree.