Associate in Specialized Technology Degree in Graphic Arts
Accredited by ACCSC
Licensed by the PA Department of Education, Department of Private Licensed Schools
Now is the TIme!
Complete this form to request more information about South Hills School of Business & Technology’s specialized associate degree programs and classes!
Associate in Specialized Technology Degree in Graphic Arts
Accredited by ACCSC
Licensed by the PA Department of Education, Department of Private Licensed Schools
NEW: Graphic Arts Program now available at our Altoona Campus Location!
Program Highlights:
What You Need to Know About Our Graphic Arts AST Degree
With so much of our lives and jobs being conducted online and through computers, the role of digital graphic design has become key to how we work and function. The field of graphic arts combines creative, artistic work with the latest in computer technology to transform everything from the websites and apps we use to the advertisements we see and more. With the Associate of Specialized Technology Degree in Graphic Arts from South Hills School of Business & Technology, you can gain the skills you need to step into a dynamic, ever-changing career that unites the worlds of art and tech.
At South Hills, we update our graphic arts curriculum regularly and give you hands-on training so you know you’ll study the most up-to-date software and best practices used in your field today.
Our experienced instructors cover topics like:
- Applying fundamental traditions of design through concept development, color, composition, image making, typography, and verbal and written communication
- Engaging in creative problem solving to produce solutions that are effective in visually communication information about products, services, companies, or individuals
- Creating graphic design using software like Adobe Creative Suite, as well as website design and productivity software commonly used in the graphic arts industry
- Understanding publishing, packaging, and social media and marketing and how it applies the graphic arts field
- Using either digital photography or video production and editing skills to augment and expand on your digital design career
- Creating a complete print and digital portfolio that reflects the professional skills acquired through both education and continued on-the-job designs
Internship:
We include a 12-week internship with one of our partner employers as part of your program, so you’ll have the opportunity to put what you’ve learned to work. Previous internship locations have included:
Why You Should Choose South Hills?
South Hills School of Business & Technology has been in the business of helping our students gain the specialized career skills they need for over 50 years. We know that we can help you, too, as you prepare for your future career. Here are just a few reasons why:
Small class sizes
Internship and Networking Opportunities
Financial Aid and Scholarships
Experienced Instructors
The Outlook for Graphic Arts Jobs and Careers
The Graphic Arts program at South Hills is designed to prepare you for entry-level jobs like:
- Multimedia Specialist
- Graphic Designer
- Web Designer
- Social Media & Marketing Coordinator
- Creative Director
- UX Designer
- Videographer
- Publication Designer
- Advertising Coordinator
- Freelance Designer
- Pre-Press Specialist
- Illustrator
There is a consistent need for new, skilled graphic designers in today’s workforce. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, about 24,000 job openings for graphic designers are expected each year on average, as people currently employed in graphic arts either shift to different positions or retire.
With a specialized associate degree in graphic arts, you also lay the foundation to increase your opportunities for success. The BLS found that people who earned their specialized associate degrees average almost 20% higher wages and had an unemployment rate two percentage points lower than those who had only a high school diploma. A specialized associate degree is also a potential jumping off point to getting your bachelor’s degree or even master’s degree later on as you advance in your career.
A Closer Look at Our Graphic Arts Classes
The Graphic Arts AST Degree at South Hills is an on-campus program that features small class sizes and more opportunities for individualized attention.
Credits:
Our GA curriculum consists of 119.5 credits that can be completed in just 2 years. It includes courses like: Fundamentals of Design, Color Theory, Video Production & Editing, Social Media and Marketing for Designers, and Advanced Web Site Design.
The complete course list for the Graphic Arts program is located in our Course Catalog.
Hear From Our Alumni
Deciding to further my education with South Hills has been one of the best decisions for my career choice. Choosing to attend a hands-on school that focuses solely on the traits I needed to be successful, really helped me advance in being confident when applying for jobs. Graduating from South Hills set me up for success with having all the skillsets that I needed to step right into a role with the confidence I needed.
Meet the Faculty
Jim Colbert
Interim Program Coordinator
Ray Liddick
Instructor