Get the Skills to Become a Graphic Designer

Graphic Design Career Training in Toledo, OH

Do you have a love for art, and have the passion and determination to work in a creative industry? You can turn your artistic talent into a rewarding career in graphic design. Davis University’s Graphic Design program puts you on-track towards a brighter future in a short period of time.

Become a Graphic Design Professional

Every successful business needs someone to design their products or services. Graphic Designers combine art and technology to communicate ideas through images and the layout of websites and printed pages. Graphic design is important to market and sell products, and it is a critical component of brochures and logos. Typically Graphic Designers work closely with people in advertising and promotions, public relations, and marketing.

Exciting Career Opportunities

Once you’ve completed your training as a Graphic Design professional, you will have the skills to pursue a variety of rewarding careers, including,

• Graphic Designer
• Graphic Artist
• Layout Artist
• Layout Designer

Graphic Designers are able to work in a variety of industries, and many even start their own businesses or do freelance work, which allows for flexibility.

The best way to see if Davis University is right for you is to come in and tour the school. You can see our facilities and meet with teachers and students. Schedule a Tour Now or Get More Info.

Program Outline

Drawing Foundations

A basic foundation of drawing and composing two dimensional space are investigated. Students will be introduced to the human figure as well as linear perspective. Direct observation and interpreting photographic sources are used to develop the student’s image-making.

Credit Hours: 5
Prerequisite(s): None

2D Design

The elements and principles of design that form the foundation for composing two-dimensional space are explored. The relationship between form and space is emphasized, as well as design terminology.

Credit Hours: 5
Prerequisite(s): None

3D Design

The elements and principles that form the foundation for creating forms in space are explored. The relation between form and three-dimensional space is emphasized as well as design terminology. This course also explores the concept of sustainability and green design.

Credit Hours: 5
Prerequisite(s): None

Typography

Typographic form and syntax are explored. The student learns to arrange type into clear visual hierarchies that conform to the elements and principles of design.

Credit Hours: 4
Prerequisite(s): None

Digital Layout and Print Publishing

This course is an introduction to digital page composition using industry standard software (Adobe InDesign). Students will also learn printing technologies for digital prepress (including file, font, and color management), and printing technologies (including letterpress, offset lithography, and screen printing).

Credit Hours: 5
Prerequisite(s): None

History of Graphic Design

The history of graphic design from the Victorian era to the present is explored. Emphasis is placed on the relationship between graphic design and culture with regard to the creation of visual communication.

Credit Hours: 4
Prerequisite(s): None

Digital Image Making

This course is an introduction to creating computer illustrations and image creation using industry standard software (Adobe Illustrator/Photoshop). Focus on the design elements and principles with regards to page composition and image solutions will be emphasized.

Credit Hours: 5
Prerequisite(s): None

Color Principles

Color theory and principles are investigated. The relationship between color, light, and visual perception are emphasized as well as color terminology.

Credit Hours: 5
Prerequisite(s): None

Packaging Design

Formats and materials for packaging design are explored. Emphasis is placed on conceptual design solutions based on package requirements and audience analysis.

Credit Hours: 4
Prerequisite(s): None

Visual Identity Systems

Corporate identity systems are researched and analyzed. Elements and applications are emphasized. Students create an identity system that reflects corporate history, organizational structure, corporate philosophy, and market position.

Credit Hours: 4
Prerequisite(s): None

Portfolio Preparation and Professional Practices

The student develops a design portfolio in preparation for a job interview. Representative work that demonstrates appropriate visual language, critical thinking, and technology skills required for entry into the design profession is selected and prepared for the portfolio. Interview practices are also covered.

Credit Hours: 4
Prerequisite(s): None

Business Elective

Merchandising

This course analyzes and examines the role of merchandising in retailing management. The course focuses on both the strategic and tactical issues, with an emphasis on financial considerations and implementation through merchandise and store management.

Credit Hours: 4
Prerequisite(s): None

Business Communications

This course will enable students to develop communication skills that will be effective in job placement, performance, career advancement, and organizational success. Students will develop effective writing, listening, presenting, and interview skills through the process of practice, application, and meaningful feedback. Students will learn the organizational skills necessary for success in contemporary technology-driven business environments. For maximum student benefit, this course should be taken in a student’s last quarter.

Credit Hours: 4
Prerequisite(s): Composition I; Forum on Technology and Resources

Composition I

Students will gain a foundation for college level writing valuable for nearly any field. This course focuses not only on writing but also on reading and critically engaging various texts. Students will read and write essays with a variety of rhetorical purposes: Observing, explaining, investigating, evaluating, problem solving and arguing. Also includes library and electronic research culminating in research papers.

Credit Hours: 5
Prerequisite(s): Forum on Technology and Resources

Composition II

This course further develops students’ ability to write for academic and professional contexts with increased emphasis on argumentation and research. Requires students to evaluate, integrate, and document print and digital sources to produce a range of academic and multimodal texts, culminating in a fully documented research paper. Composition II is a blended course using both classroom and web-based learning platforms.

Credit Hours: 5
Prerequisite(s): Composition I with a grade of “C” or better or permission of the General Education Program Director; Forum on Technology and Resources

Communication Elective

Humanities Elective

Introduction to Business

The student will study the basic concepts of business operations in our society and the various functions within a business enterprise. Topics such as business environment, management, organization, marketing, finance, economics and accounting are discussed in an introductory manner. This course is a valuable starting point for further business management study or an excellent review of the fundamentals of business.

Credit Hours: 5
Prerequisite(s): None

Introductory Algebra I

This course is an introduction to algebra. The content will cover the study of operations on integers and rational number, the solution of equations with one and two unknown variables, linear equation, and coordinate graphing. Application problems are used extensively throughout the course.

Credit Hours: 5
Prerequisite(s): None

Social Science Elective

Forum on Technology and Resources

This interdisciplinary course empowers students to be successful by providing opportunities to cultivate skills needed to enhance their careers and to be capable life-long learners. Essential computer applications that enhance marketability are integrated with self-management skills, critical thinking, learning strategies, and time management. Students will research topics for written and oral reports and develop a career portfolio.

Credit Hours: 5
Prerequisite(s): None

How Davis University Prepares You for Success

The Graphic Design Associate Degree program focuses on developing your creativity and problem-solving skills. The program explores the relationship between client and audience and how visual messages are created and delivered. Emphasis is placed on digital technology, utilizing the computer and software to create visual messages.

During your Graphic Design degree program, you will cover a variety of topics in many interesting and engaging courses, including,

• 2D Design
• 3D Design
• Typography
• Digital Layout and Print Publishing
• Digital Image Making

At Davis University, you won’t be alone. Throughout your program, you will be given exceptional support from your instructors who will help to put your best foot forward into the job market.

Four Day Week

Davis University supports your life schedule, which is why classes only run Monday through Thursday. By having a shorter class week you can balance your schedule more easily, letting you focus on completing your program. You can relax knowing that you have an extra day every week to accommodate whatever obstacle life throws your way.

Career Services

Davis University is dedicated to your employment success and provides you with resources to help you achieve a rewarding career. The Career Services Office is your link to the Toledo business community. You will have access to resume writing strategies, portfolio development, job search techniques, and more.

Financial Aid Support

Career training is one of the most valuable investments you can make. Davis University helps by making this process easier. Our Financial Aid advisors will work with you to build a plan of how you can find your education. They will help you determine your eligibility and provide options for a Federal Pell Grant, student federal aid options, the Davis College plan, and more.

Is a Rewarding Graphic Design Career Right for You? Get More Info…

If you’re interested in discovering a rewarding Graphic Design career and exploring whether Davis University is right for you, fill out the form on this page to receive more information.

For immediate questions, call 419-473-2700.