Graphic Design

To learn more, visit: https://www.morainepark.edu/academics/programs/graphic-communications/

Program Number: 10-201-1
Associate of Applied Science Degree
Campus: Fond du Lac
This program is eligible for financial aid

Combine your passion for art and technology and turn it into a career with an associate degree in Graphic Design at Moraine Park Technical College.

About the Program

Graphic design is art with a purpose. Students in the Graphic Design program combine art and creativity with computer skills to convey information in print, online or digital environments. Students learn to combine modern technologies with traditional design concepts, theories and techniques in a wide variety of design projects.

What You'll Learn

Students in the Graphic Design associate degree program explore illustration, typography, electronic publication, social media video, digital photography and advertising. Students learn how to work with a client and experience the production process hands-on, from concept through completion.

Graduates of the program are proficient in design software, tools and technology.

In their final semester, graphic design students show off their favorite work to friends, family and prospective employers during the “Portfolio Showcase” event.

Transfer Opportunities

Your academic journey can continue at a four-year college or university. Earn your associate degree at Moraine Park and then apply those credits toward a bachelor’s degree. Starting at MPTC makes completing a bachelor’s degree affordableaccessible and convenient. You can go anywhere as MPTC has transfer agreements with colleges and universities both in Wisconsin and throughout the country.

Visit the Transfer to a Four-Year College page for more information on credit transfer agreements between Moraine Park and four-year colleges, both public and private.
 

 

Admission Process

Standard Admissions steps details

Credit for Prior Learning

Transform the skills and abilities developed through previous experience into college credit through MPTC’s Credit for Prior Learning process. 

  • Transfer credit from other colleges/universities
  • Earn college credit for your military training and experience
  • Earn college credit via Advance Placement, CLEP, DANTES/DSST or MPTC Challenge Exams
  • Earn college credit from previous/current work and life experiences

Visit MPTC’s Credit for Prior Learning page for more information.

Approximate Costs

Fees shown are 2023-2024 fees; 2024-2025 fees will be available as soon as they are approved.

Tuition

Occupational

  • $146.20 per credit (resident)
  • $219.30 per credit (out-of-state resident)

Associate of Arts/Associate of Science

  • $188.90 per credit (resident)
  • $283.35 per credit (out-of-state resident)

Online students are not charged out-of-state fees.

Student Fees

  • $4.50 minimum per course Material Fee
  • $12.50 per-credit Supplemental Fee for Undergraduate courses
  • $10 minimum per credit Online Course Fee (Fee suspended for 2023-2024)
  • $4.50 per term mandatory Student Accident Insurance Fee

Please refer to Tuition & Fee Information for additional enrollment fee information.

Financial Aid

Financial Aid is available for associate degree and technical diploma programs (those that are 2 semesters in length and typically with 28 credits or more). Processing can take 4-5 weeks after a student's completed Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is received. Visit the Financial Aid page to learn more.

While attending Moraine Park during the 2024-25 school year, your estimated cost of attendance for one full year includes tuition of $4,462 (15 credits for fall and spring semester), fees of $338, food and housing of $3,008 (if living with parents, $9,147 if living on your own), books and supplies of $1,465, personal expenses of $3,608, and transportation of $4,017 for a total of $17,002. Your direct costs (those costs paid directly to the college) include tuition & fees. The indirect costs (costs not paid to the college) can vary from individual to individual and your own personal needs.

Course Requirements

Plan of Study Grid
Semester 1Credits
103-159 Computer Literacy - Microsoft Office 1
103-170 Beginning Photoshop 2
103-174 InDesign 2
201-101 Introduction to Graphic Design 3
201-112 Design Fundamentals 3
801-136 English Composition 1 3
890-101 College 101 2
 Credits16
Semester 2
104-133 Social Video Creation 3
152-107 Graphics for the Web 2
201-102 Vector Illustration 1 2
201-105 Designing for Mobile Platforms 3
201-111 Typography 3
Communication Course 3
 Credits16
Semester 3
196-189 Team Building and Problem Solving 3
201-100 Image Editing 2
201-134 Design Production and Planning 1 3
201-144 Vector Illustration 2 3
Mathematics Course 3
Behavioral Science Course 3
 Credits17
Semester 4
201-116 Identity Design and Branding 3
201-168 Design, Production and Planning 2: Digital Output 3
201-181 Prepress Process Color 3
Social Science Course 3
Social Science Course 3
 Credits15
 Total Credits64

Program Outcomes

  • Apply the principles of design to develop strategic marketing and communication products and services.
  • Demonstrate proficiency in the use of design software, tools and technology.
  • Implement creative solutions from concept through completion using a formal process.
  • Apply effective legal and ethical business practices and project management skills.
  • Communicate artwork rationale in formal and informal settings.

Career Opportunities

  • Sales Representative
  • Customer Service Representative
  • Digital Prepress Technician
  • Graphic Artist
  • Graphic Designer
  • Digital Photo Technician

Statewide Median Salary for Recent Graduates

$45,007