Graphic + Interactive Design AS Degree and Course Information

What classes do I have to take to earn my AS Degree in Graphic + Interactive Design?

We’ve designed a visual 2023/24 FLOW CHART for students to better show and describe our 2023/24 DEGREE REQUIREMENTS. Make sure you’re using the correct flow chart for the year you declared your degree in Graphics as we are continually updating and improving our program in order to ensure our graduates are current, marketable, and competitive. The exact classes you will be required to take depend on the catalog year in which you declared your degree.

Each course listed on the FLOW CHART FOR THE 2023/24 CATALOG summarizes what software we cover in each course and to what degree that software is covered. Please note that we are not a “technical school” in which only software is covered. It is important to develop skills in visual communication, conceptual thinking, design thinking and creative problem solving to be successful in our field. If technical skills are all you’re seeking, you might be interested in pursuing a technical certificate only – however, please keep in mind our technical certificates don’t lead to a finished portfolio – and a competitive portfolio is required in order to find a job in our industry.

If I am already a Graphic’s major, how do I know which flow chart to use for my catalog year?

When Valencia students declare their major, they are automatically placed in the catalog requirements for that year; where the requirements stay the same for the next 5 years. When changes are made to a degree major, the changes only affect students who are declaring their major for that NEW catalog year and generally do not affect the degree requirements for students who are in older catalogs. The only exception to that rule is when course prerequisite requirements change; this affects ALL students who are required to take that course as a part of their program degree requirements because they will still need to take any new prerequisites before they can take that course. Here are the flow charts for the current and previous academic years (catalogs) for the past 5 years:

• 2022/23 FLOW CHART
• 2021/2022 FLOW CHART
• 2019/2020, 2020/2021 FLOW CHART
• 2018/2019 FLOW CHART
• 201/2018 FLOW CHART
• 2014/2015, 2015/2016, 2016/2017 FLOW CHART

What AS (Associate in Science) Degree Specializations and Technical Certificates are offered?

The AS Degree in Graphic + Interactive Design offers two specializations: Graphic Design (with a focus on advertising, branding, and print design) and Interactive Design (with a focus on web design, interactive design, and user interface design). Many Graphic’s students choose to select BOTH specializations because it makes them extremely marketable and competitive for jobs and because it would only require students study for 2 additional semesters to complete both specializations.

We also offer 4 technical certificates. Our technical certificates are best for people who are already working in the industry and who are just needing to be re-introduced to industry standard software and tools to keep their skills fresh. Our technical certificates don’t lead to a finished portfolio – and a competitive portfolio is required in order to find a job in our industry. Students just learning graphic design who are wanting a career in graphic design or web design will need a competitive portfolio and will need to complete our AS Degree in order to get a job in our industry.

How long does it take to earn an AS Degree in Graphic + Interactive Design?

Students who are attending FULL-TIME for the fall, spring, and summer semesters, can complete our degree in 2 years (6 semesters). Full-time students not taking classes during the summer semesters can complete our degree in 3 years. Part-time students can, naturally, expect to take longer to complete our program depending on how many classes they are able to take each semester.

Am I required to submit a portfolio to declare a major in Valencia’s Graphic + Interactive Design Program?

Unlike a typical 4-year program, we do not require a portfolio submission or special application for you to declare Graphics as your chosen degree path; we have an open door policy when it comes to our first semester courses. Also, in contrast to a typical 4-year degree pathway, we don’t require you take two years of general education courses before you can apply to be a Graphic’s major. You will notice that our students have the opportunity to be exposed to industry basics their very first semester enrolled in our program and do not have to wait until “they are a junior” or are “accepted into our program” before they can give graphic design classes a whirl. This also means students who are uncertain about whether or not this is the right major for them, can give it a try by registering for any of our semester one courses before they declare a degree in our area to see if it’s a good fit for them.

What is the difference between Valencia’s A.S. Degree Program and a 4-year Bachelor’s Degree at a University?

 

Our AS degree program in graphic & interactive design is different than a 4-year school from the standpoint we don’t require the 60 credits of general education in the freshman/sophomore years (additional english, science, art history, social science, math, etc.) that a 4-year program requires. Instead, we provide intensive study in our discipline that is more like the junior/senior years that a 4-year school offers, but without the portfolio application process, without the limited access (80% of applicants are denied), and with more discipline-focused courses. And, well, we’re sure you’ve already researched the lower cost and the amount of time you would save.

Here’s a visualization of what we’re describing here:

Do you offer your degree online?

Although we offer many online, hybrid, and virtual course modalities in our area, it is not possible to complete our certificates or degree solely online/remotely.

Why should I choose to major in Graphic + Interactive Design?

There is a higher demand for graphic, interactive, and web designers – every organization needs a designer. Those choosing to major in Graphic + Interactive Design desire career satisfaction and possess qualities including visual communication, creative problem solving, design thinking, strong verbal communication, ability to juggle multiple projects, and willingness to work in a fast-paced deadline-dependent environment. Those that have made the decision to major in Graphics are often curious and artistic, are great problem solvers, and are comfortable with new and emerging technologies.

What type of job would I be able to work once graduating with a Graphics Technology degree?

Graduates work in positions such as Web Designers, Graphic Designers, User Interface (UI) Designers, User Experience (UX) Designers, Information Architects, Graphic Artists, Multimedia Artists, Traditional and Digital Illustrators, Commercial Artists, Advertising Designers, Letterers, and Production Artists.

What type of salary should an entry-level Graphics graduate expect?

The estimated salary range for a Graphics major in the Central Florida area is $32,000 to $45,000 per year, however, salary depends a great deal on location, portfolio quality, soft skills, and technical skills.

What ways can I get involved in the local creative industry?

We strive to keep our students constantly informed of extracurricular activities on our Valencia Graphics Facebook page. Students are encouraged to take advantage of the opportunity they have to learn beyond the classroom and join organizations such as Valencia’s Graphic’s Hangouts, the Creatologists, the Orlando Chapter of AIGA (American Institute of Graphic Arts), AAF Orlando (American Advertising Federation), and AD2 Orlando. Throughout the year all organizations hold seminars, workshops, portfolio reviews, mentorships, and guest speakers which benefit students majoring in graphic, interactive, and web design. By joining these organizations students have the opportunity to network with other individual’s in the graphic design industry and learn from professionals outside of the classroom.

Technical Requirements

Do I have to purchase a computer to be a Graphic’s major?

It’s important to note we do not require students purchase a computer or purchase the software needed to complete projects and assignments for class. This is because we offer open graphic’s labs in which our students can do all of their work. If students were preferring to purchase a computer and software so they can work from home, it would be best to purchase an Apple computer (either a Macbook Pro laptop with the largest monitor available or an iMac) as well as purchase an Adobe Creative Cloud subscription. Although both vendors offer student discounts, the cost for purchasing a computer and software is quite a significant financial investment (which is why we offer open labs).

Although we don’t offer personal tours, you’re always welcome to visit our open Graphic’s Lab facilities to ask our students, lab assistants, and lab supervisors any questions you’d like about our labs and our program. We offer classes and have separate labs on three Valencia Campuses: East: 1-213, West 3-150, and Osceola 1-244.

Do keep in mind our labs are funded through student lab fees, so only students registered for Graphic’s courses are able to use our labs.

I want to make sure I go to the lab when the lab is open, is there any way I can find out when the lab is open?

Yes! We have open lab facilities for our Graphic’s majors on the East Campus, West Campus, and Osceola Campus and each semester our LAB HOURS change. Check out our posted LAB HOURS before traveling to campus.

Becoming a Graphic + Interactive Design major at Valencia College

How do I become a Graphic’s major?

To learn more about how to become a Valencia student and to apply to become a Valencia student, please see Valencia’s handy list of enrollment/application requirements here: https://net1.valenciacollege.edu/future-students/admissions/

For international students, the process is a bit different and the cost to attend is significantly higher — you can find those enrollment/application requirements here: https://net1.valenciacollege.edu/future-students/international-students/

How much does it cost to be a Graphic’s major?

To learn more about the costs associated with being a Valencia student, Valencia provides this information on their website: https://net1.valenciacollege.edu/future-students/financial-aid/tuition/

We have done some cost estimates (including tuition, textbooks, lab fees, supplies, materials) for our program and have estimated the TOTAL cost to be around $10,100 (considering in-state tuition) for your entire stay in our program. Out-of-state and International students should expect higher rates for tuition.

I’ve attended college prior to Valencia. Will my credits transfer?

Any courses you’ve already taken at a regionally accredited college or university that match our general (math, english, etc.) education requirements should automatically count towards meeting our degree requirements. Valencia will require you submit your transcripts as a part of their enrollment process, and you should know after a couple of weeks which courses match and are being transferred successfully.

Any courses that are specific to Graphics will need to undergo a review prior to receiving transfer credit. You will need to schedule an appointment with a campus Graphic’s program chair to share your portfolio samples and transcripts for review. Courses selected for transfer will be based upon a demonstration of competencies shown in your portfolio combined with alignment of Graphic’s courses on your transcripts.

Note that transfer credits from schools that aren’t regionally accredited and/or are on a quarter system will only partially transfer. In some cases, it’s possible to select 2 courses from your previous school to combine for enough credits.

Prerequisites

Why can’t I take a class such as Electronic Imaging or Vector Illustration before taking Graphic Design Essentials?

Graphic Design Essentials is a prerequisite to many courses; meaning it’s required prior to taking most other Graphics courses. Because of that it is highly recommended that students take Graphic Design Essentials their very first semester. Graphic Design Essentials covers the foundational technical concepts of software such as Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign. An emphasis will also be placed on creative process, design thinking, typography, design, layout, color, and pre-press production. Prior to completion of Graphic Design Essentials students will undergo a timed, hands-on competency exam. It is expected that you will already know and already be able to apply these foundational technical and visual skills in all intermediate courses.

Portfolio

When is the best time to take Portfolio Review?

Students must have completed Portfolio Prep prior to being able to take Portfolio Review and it is recommended students take it their very last semester prior to graduation. Prior to taking the portfolio course students should have a minimum of 10 strong potential pieces for their portfolio. It is strongly recommended students take Portfolio Review and Internship together in their final semester WITH NO OTHER COURSES as the workload for these two courses is extreme.

What should I expect during portfolio review class?

Although the course is only one credit hour, this is undoubtedly one of the most demanding and time-consuming courses Graphics students face during their degree. During this course students prepare their past projects for their portfolio and often rework past projects. In addition, students will design an identity/logo for themselves as well as a business card, letterhead, and self-promotional piece. Students will also refine their resume and design/make a self-promotional leave-behind. All of this hard work is graded during their portfolio review with industry professionals. Prior to Portfolio Review (in Portfolio Prep) students are required to take a timed on-computer competency exam, where they must score a minimum of a 70%.

What is the competency exam and why do I have to take it to complete the Portfolio Prep course?

The competency exam is a timed examination where student will be evaluated for their ability to design and correctly use industry software to produce a printed publication or a website. The competency exam measures students’ capabilities and reflects the knowledge and experience they have gained in the program. After completing the competency exam students should feel confident that they are capable of working in an entry-level position as a Graphic, Interactive, or Web Designer.

Internship

When is the best time to take the internship course?

The best time to take the internship course is within the last two semesters prior to graduation. This will ensure students have gained the necessary experience and knowledge and are properly prepared to work in the graphic design industry. A GRA internship does have prerequisites, requires an application the semester prior, and students will NOT be able to register themselves for the course. For a full list of requirements regarding internship, you should visit our INTERNSHIP page on this website.