Applied Design Technology | Bismarck State College

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Applied Design Technology

Overview

type:
Limited Enrollment / Certificates / Communications, Art & Design
Format:
On-campus
Applied Design Technology

Overview

Degrees Offered: Program Certificate
Limited Enrollment: Yes
Program Begins: Spring
Delivery Method: On Campus
Phone: 701-224-2429
Email: bsc.cet@bismarckstate.edu

Description

The Applied Design Technology program certificate provides classroom and lab instruction in a Mac-equipped studio where students will be introduced to digital photography and basic principles of design including how to create their own typeface. Each student is required to prepare a portfolio of his or her best work for presentation to potential employers and art directors and/or participate in a co-op or internship.

This program certificate can be taken on its own or bundled with other certificates toward an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree in Integrated Studies. In addition, students have the option to pursue an Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree in Graphic Design and Communications. Admission occurs in the Spring. Students are encouraged to apply early as openings are limited.

Preparation

A high school or employment background related to any communications field is helpful, such as journalism/photo journalism, advertising/marketing, visual art, graphic art, writing, yearbook design, computer graphics, or desktop publishing. Students interested in this field should be creative and imaginative, have a sense of color and form, be able to work under pressure, meet deadlines, and work independently or as part of a team. Artistic ability is a plus. Completion of the Graphic Design Technology Program Certificate is required.

Requirements

Students who complete the curriculum requirements earn a Program Certificate in Applied Design Technology. Additional coursework may lead to an Associate in Applied Science Degree. 

Special Costs

Students will be required to provide their own digital camera that meets the department standards, within the first week of classes. The typical camera costs $500 - $700.

Program Pathways

Credits from the Applied Design Technology certificate may stack into the following Associate in Applied Science degree:

Career Opportunities

This short-term certificate provides the skills needed in many career paths including business, entrepreneurship, marketing, web design, etc.


Degree Plans

Program Learning Outcomes

Upon graduation, Graphic Design and Communication students will demonstrate:

  • Creative Process – Students should be able to understand/utilize the creative process to execute a design solution.
  • Production Skills – Students must demonstrate an understanding of the technical production skills required of an entry-level graphic designer.
  • Typography – Students must demonstrate an understanding of type as an element of design, including selection, manipulation and creation.
  • Design Software Proficiency – Students must demonstrate proficient knowledge of the Adobe Creative Suite applications most familiar to designers in the industry.
  • Digital Photography – Students must learn to operate and utilize their DSLR cameras and show an understanding of studio lighting techniques.
  • Technical Knowledge – Second-year students will demonstrate their technical knowledge of Advertising Arts on a proctored examination in the final semester of the program.
  • Portfolio – Students must select, edit and present a portfolio of their best work that demonstrates technical and creative proficiency.