An online associate degree in visual communications may provide students with the skills and training needed to communicate through design. These two-year programs may teach students how to create presentations as well as how to analyze visual problems through original results. Coursework within these programs may include several general education courses along with major-specific classes, such as desktop publishing, computer illustration, and color basics.

Graduates may pursue entry-level employment or enroll in a bachelor’s degree program. Graduates of these programs may find employment opportunities in graphic design, animation, print and electronic media.

Program Overview

• Prerequisite: High School Diploma or GED
• Program Length: Two years to complete
• Post-Grad Options: Entry-Level Employment or Bachelor’s Program
• Projected Employment Growth: 13% (2010-2020)*

Program Coursework

The curriculum within an associate-level program in visual communications may combine several general education courses alongside courses routed in the visual communications major. In these two-year programs, students may study elements of visual language through colors, shapes, textures, and lines. Core courses within these programs may include the following:

• Design Principles
• Computer Design
• Color Basics
• Typography
• Graphic Design
• Desktop Publishing
• Computer Illustration

Career Options

Graduates of associate-level programs in visual communications may pursue employment opportunities in graphic design, print and electronic media, photography, animation, and multimedia. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment options for those in graphic design and visual communications are expected to increase by 13% from 2010-2020*.

Possible careers include:

• Design Coordinator
• Production Assistant
• Assistant Illustrator
• Graphic Design Assistant
• Junior Creative Director

Continuing Education

Individuals who successfully complete the associate-level program in visual communications may further their education by enrolling in a bachelor’s degree program in the same or similar field. These four-year programs may provide students with additional training and skills by using industry-relevant software programs to create items for print or media. Most employers prefer to hire individuals who have at least a bachelor’s degree in visual communications or graphic design as well as possess a strong portfolio.

*U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook