Graphic Design (A.A.S.)

At a Glance

Degree: Graphic Design
Program Information: Program Handbook (PDF)

Program Information

Contact information: Renate Ferreira, 816.604.4335

Admissions

Admissions answers, steps to apply to MCC, international application, student success advising, class schedule, tuition and fees, financial aid, graduation requirements.

Program Maps

Pathway Art, Humanities, Language and Communications

Start Term

Fall, Spring

Campus

MCC-Penn Valley

Career Opportunities

Graphic designers work across a wide range of industries, including advertising agencies, design firms, publishing, printing companies, marketing agencies, corporate in-house teams, television and media organizations, and freelance practice. According to national data, careers in graphic design continue to grow across both traditional and digital media.

Software Used

• Adobe Creative Cloud applications such as Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign

Portfolio Development

A strong portfolio is essential for launching a career in graphic design—and it is a central focus of our program. Throughout your coursework, you will develop a portfolio that demonstrates your skills, creative thinking, and ability to solve visual communication problems. By graduation, you’ll have a body of work that reflects professional standards and prepares you for entry-level opportunities in the field.

Transfer Information

We have established transfer relationships with many four-year colleges and universities to help ensure your credits move as smoothly as possible. General education courses typically transfer to most institutions, and many ART and Graphic Design courses apply toward bachelor’s degree programs. We recommend meeting with the program coordinator early to create a clear transfer plan and ensure a seamless transition.

FAQs

• What do Graphic Designers do? Graphic Designers Are Visual Communicators Who Create Designs That Inform, Engage, And Inspire. They Work Across a Wide Range Of Media, Including: Advertising and promotional design, Social media and digital content, Animation and video production, Web and interactive design, Editorial and publication design, Catalogs and brochures, Direct mail and marketing materials, Branding and identity systems, Typography and font design, Billboards and posters, Album and media covers, Product packaging, Reports and presentations, Television and motion graphics, and much more. While most work is created digitally, designers also use traditional methods as part of the creative process.
• How long does it take to get an Associate in Applied Science degree? Full-time students can complete the Associate in Applied Science degree in Graphic Design in two years. The program also accommodates part-time students, allowing flexibility around work and personal schedules.
• What kind of learning environment will I find at MCC-Penn Valley? Classes are held in the Carter Art Center in dedicated design labs equipped with Mac computers and industry-standard design software. Students learn in a hands-on, interactive environment that reflects real-world design workflows—from concept through final production. Small class sizes allow for personalized instruction and meaningful feedback. Faculty bring professional experience and industry insight to support student development.
• What are the advantages of taking classes at MCC-Penn Valley? Students benefit from flexible scheduling and a convenient location designed to fit their lifestyle. The Program Offers: Small class sizes, Industry-experienced instructors, Strong student support services, Dedicated design labs, Affordable tuition.
• Do I need prior design experience? No. The program is designed to build skills from the ground up.
• Will I learn industry-standard tools? Yes. Students learn industry-standard tools, including Adobe Creative Cloud applications such as Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign.
• Will I build a portfolio? Yes. Portfolio development is a central focus of the program.
• Can I transfer to a four-year university? Yes. Many courses transfer. Students are encouraged to plan early with the program coordinator.
• What kind of jobs can I get after graduation? Graduates pursue roles such as graphic designer, production artist, marketing designer, social media designer, and freelance designer.
• Can I take classes part-time? Yes. The program supports both full-time and part-time enrollment.
• Will I work on real-world projects? Yes. Coursework reflects real-world design workflows and professional practices.
• Is this program hands-on? Yes. Students learn through hands-on projects, critiques, and studio-based assignments.
• What makes this program different? The program combines small class sizes, industry-experienced faculty, real-world workflows, and a strong focus on portfolio development.