Graphic Arts

  • Certificate
  • AAS
Graphic artists working on a project

In this hands-on program, students gain the skills and experience used by today's digital media professionals. They explore a wide range of creative disciplines, including photo manipulation, illustration, web design, video production, print design, social media marketing, branding, and more.

Coursework covers the fundamental principles of design, typography, color theory, visual storytelling, branding, and web design. Students learn using industry-standard hardware and software, preparing them for careers in the creative and digital media industries.

Throughout the program, students build a professional portfolio by completing real-world projects such as logo design, business identity packages, brochures, newsletters, billboards, videos, and websites. A supervised internship provides valuable hands-on experience, helping students bridge the gap between the classroom and the workplace while building professional connections and career readiness.

Degrees & Certificates

Certificate – Film/Multimedia

Certificate
This certificate is for Dickinson High School only.

Length

17 Credit hours
2 semesters on average

Costs

In District Tuition: $693 per semester for 9 credit hours (additional fees may apply)

Mode

In-Person

Certificate – Graphic Design

Certificate
A concentrated one-year degree program prepares students for careers in graphic design and media publishing. Through hands-on training and projects, students acquire the skills necessary to be successful in entry-level positions in advertising, publishing or related industries.

Length

27 Credit Hours
3 semesters full-time

Costs

In-District Tuition: $924 per semester for 12 credit hours (additional fees may apply)

Mode

In-Person

Certificate - Web Design

Certificate
A concentrated one-year degree program prepares students for careers in web design and video production. Through hands-on training and projects, students acquire the skills necessary to be successful in entry-level positions in web publishing, video production or related industries.

Length

27 Credit Hours
2 Semesters full-time

Costs

In District Tuition: $924 per semester for 12 credit hours (additional fees may apply)

Mode

In-Person

Associate of Applied Science

AAS
A concentrated two-year degree program prepares students for careers in graphic design, web design, digital publishing/printing, and multimedia design/development. Through hands-on training and projects, students acquire the skills necessary to be successful in industry. An internship program helps bridge the gap from formal training to full-time employment. Articulation agreements exist between local high schools for this program.

Length

60 Credit Hours
5 semesters on average

Costs

In-District: $1,155.00 per semester

Mode

In-Person

Accreditation

College of the Mainland is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award associate and baccalaureate degrees and certificates.

Contact the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097 or call 404-679-4500 for questions about the accreditation of College of the Mainland.

How Certificates Stack

Our stackable certificates allow you to learn and add to your educational and professional careers while working toward your associate degree. Complete a certificate along with the AAS degree requirements, and have your associates completed in two years.

Certificate - Graphic Design

Certificate
A concentrated one-year degree program prepares students for careers in graphic design and media publishing.
27 credit hours | 3 semesters

Associate of Applied Science

AAS
A concentrated two-year degree program prepares students for careers in graphic design, web design, digital publishing/printing, and multimedia design/development.
Graphic Design Certificate + 33 credits | 1.5 years
Manon BurkhartPlay Video
This program has been honestly fantastic. I wish I would have come here first instead of doing my bachelors elsewhere because these professors are some of the most amazing people and they make the program what it is.
Manon Burkhart
Graphic Arts

Careers & Outcomes

Graduates with an Associate of Applied Science in Graphic Design are prepared for hands-on creative roles across a wide range of industries. With strong skills in visual communication, digital design, layout, and branding, they can step directly into positions such as graphic designer, production artist, digital content designer, marketing design assistant, or web/UX design support roles.

Reach Out To The Program Coordinator

We're here to support you every step of the way. If you have questions about the program, curriculum, scheduling, or what to expect, your Program Coordinator is here to help.
Advisor with student in commons