Careers to Consider: Graphic Design
This article is part of a series spotlighting HFC academic and workforce programs leading to great careers. To view all HFC programs, visit this link.
The HFC graphic design program provides a broad foundation that emphasizes the development of theoretical, practical, and technical skills in graphic and visual design.
The courses build and develop skills in studio classes, focusing on print, interactive, and motion graphics. The program employs computer applications, tools, and design process techniques to develop the range of skills required to compete in the multi-media field of graphic design.
Victoria Shepherd is the lead faculty member for HFC’s graphic design program.
Classes and career options
Classes include 2-D design, digital media, graphic design, typography, illustration, time-based design (motion), interactive experience design, and the history of graphic design. Graphic design skills are applicable in many tangential creative careers.
In the first semester, Shepherd recommends you either take all or a combination of the following:
“Full-time students should plan on taking 2-3 graphic design courses a term, adding the five required general education courses in throughout their 2-year program,” said Shepherd.
Some of your career options include:
- Production Designer
- Graphic Designer
- Visual Designer
- Front-End Web Designer
- Content Management Design
- Illustrator
- Animator
- Motion Designer
- Content Developer
- Layout Artist
The Graphic Design Advisor is Sarah Krizan. To make an appointment with Krizan, contact her at 313-845-9889 or smkrizan@hfcc.edu.
Shepherd is also available to answer questions.
What you will learn
After graduating from this program, you should be able to:
- Create visual communications using a range of media, both traditional and digital.
- Use graphic design terms and methods to create and evaluate design work.
- Understand current and historic design and understand the role of design in culture.
- Use typography effectively in print and digital design.
- Understand the principles and process of design. Sketch and refine early concepts and create effective solutions.
- Effectively use industry software and equipment for print, motion, and digital projects from start to finish.
- Develop a portfolio of projects to obtain a career position or transfer to a 4-year university bachelor’s degree program.
- Curate projects in a student exhibition.
Transfer options
The graphic design program is designed as a transfer bridge to a BFA or related program. After graduating, students often transfer to the College of Creative Studies and other universities.
As a career program, the associate degree is an applied arts degree. Taking additional general education courses, you may complete the Michigan Transfer Agreement (MTA) courses and transfer to any educational institution.
For questions or more information, contact Shepherd at 313-845-6487, vashepherd@hfcc.edu.