Graphic Design
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Graphic Design

In an increasingly visual society, the graphic designer is a storyteller. As a student in Oakland Community College’s graphic design program, you’ll find your storytelling voice through comprehensive instruction to develop the knowledge and skills to work as a graphic designer, art director or multimedia professional.

An OCC associate in applied science degree in graphic design will teach you how to use design skills to create real-world projects such as trademarks, avatars, promotional materials, digital imagery and advertising campaigns. Instruction begins with core training in the tools of design—color, values, balance, proportion, texture and typography. And because software training is a critical component, the program uses the most up-to-date Adobe software.

While you’re working on an associate’s degree in graphic design, you’ll become part of a community of students who root for each other and teachers who engage with their students, going above and beyond to show how the theories and textbook knowledge of the classroom play out in real-world situations.

Many classes offer field trips to graphic design and creative institutions. Classroom instruction includes working with real companies. Classes are visited by professionals who share their knowledge and critique student work.

Graduates in the OCC graphic design program go on to work at high-profile companies such as Leo Burnett Worldwide and in design centers such as New York City.

The overall goal of OCC’s associate of applied science degree in graphic design: Provide an education that will help you create a portfolio that tells your story.

Employment of graphic designers is projected to grow 4 percent from 2016 to 2026, slower than the average for all occupations. Graphic designers are expected to face strong competition for available positions. The median annual wage for graphic designers was $48,700 in May 2017. (US Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics)

  • The OCC Graphic Design program has an alumnus working at Leo Burnett Worldwide on the national Buick social media account.
  • An OCC graphic design graduate was hired at a media company in New York City.
  • Students designed BMX bike gloves for Illusive Gloves.
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Eligibility Information

This program is offered on the Orchard Ridge campus

Prospective students must meet standard OCC eligibility requirements – there is an open admissions policy and placement tests and new student orientation are required in most cases. Students should meet with an OCC counselor before attempting this plan of study.

"Learning Technology Is ‘Best Part of Creative Process’ at OCC" - Skyler Garwolds

Degree Program

Program Plan

Achievements/Highlights

The Graphic Design program believes being connected to the visual communication profession is important. Many classes offer field trips to real-world graphic design and creative institutions. Such field trips include visiting digital media companies, advertising agencies, printers, packaging companies, and museums. Classroom instruction includes working with real companies. Classes are visited by professionals who share their knowledge and critique student work. Such companies include Hennessy Wine and Spirits and Illusive Gloves.