Program Overview
Effat University offers a modular program for an Associate Diploma in Graphic Design. The Associate Diploma in Graphic Design is intended for students who seek a broad understanding of the influential role of graphic design in our daily lives. This Associate Diploma in Graphic Design provides students with the essential knowledge and skills of graphics design, as well as technical expertise and equips the graduate with skills to design various types of digital media and packaging. The graduates will have the ability to develop graphics of different scales, both private and public. This is based on a solid understanding of design elements and principles, technologies, detailing, finishes, and color; in addition to achieving the higher level of competency in using Adobe software. Upon successfully completing each of the five courses: Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Photoshop, Adobe InDesign, Adobe After Effects, and Adobe XD, based on students' own discretion and choice, they can sit for the professional certification exam from Adobe if they feel confidence. Effat University will only provide the Associate Diploma in Graphic Design certificate or individual course certificate upon successful completion.
The Associate Diploma in Graphic Design provides an interdisciplinary orientation to the history and theory of graphic design disciplines. Core areas include design thinking, the creation of graphics of various types. The program's location is in the College of Architecture and Design that offers a diverse learning experience and an engagement with similar field in a creative environment. Graduates with this certificate may pursue professional opportunities in industries and design firms related to the delivery of graphic design services for public and private sector.
Educational objectives
The Graphic Design Diploma aims to:
- Create skillful assistants in the graphic design industry.
- Make students competent users of Adobe primary software applications, namely, Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Photoshop, and Adobe InDesign.
- Give students skills that make them effective practitioners of fundamental principles, knowledge, and skills of graphic design.
- Students will become skilled team members with adequate understanding and ability to adapt to any pre- and post-design workflow.
- Students will be proficient technical staff with the ability to identify problems and provide solutions in the graphic design industry.
- Students will be capable of producing digital mockups of various media types for all industries.
Program learning outcomes
By completing the Associate Diploma in Graphic Design program, students will be able to:
Knowledge and Understanding
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K1 - Acquire a comprehensive understanding of graphic design principles, including color theory, typography, layout, and composition.
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K2 - Develop knowledge of the history and evolution of graphic design, including influential movements, styles, and designers.
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K3 - Gain an understanding of the technical aspects of graphic design, including file formats, resolution, printing processes, and digital media production.
Skills
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S1 - Apply graphic design principles to create visually appealing and effective designs for various mediums, such as print, digital, and multimedia.
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S2 - Employ industry-standard software, such as Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign, After Effects, and XD, to design and manipulate graphics.
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S3 - Demonstrate proficiency in typography, including selecting appropriate fonts, arranging type, and creating visual hierarchy.
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S4 - Collaborate effectively with clients, team members, and stakeholders to understand project goals and deliver design solutions that meet their needs.
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S5 - Conduct research and gather relevant visual references and inspiration to inform and enhance design concepts and ideas.
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S6 - Apply effective problem-solving skills by identifying and resolving design challenges and making informed design decisions.
Values, Autonomy, and Responsibility
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V1 - Demonstrate professional ethics, responsibility, and accountability in graphic design practice, including adherence to copyright laws, ethical design practices, maintaining confidentiality of client information, and communicating effectively.
Career opportunities
- Junior Graphic Designer
- Production Artist
- Multimedia Designer
- Marketing Assistant
- Junior Art Director
- Freelance Graphic Designer
- Junior Web Designer
Admission Requirements:
- High School or Equivalent
Study Plan
Please check the study plan of Associate Diploma in Graphic Design as PDF.
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Level 1 (8 weeks)
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GRFD 121
Adobe Photoshop
None
1-1-2
32
-
GRFD 122
Adobe Illustrator
None
1-1-2
32
-
GRFD 123
Adobe InDesign
None
1-1-2
32
-
Total:
96
-
Level 2 (8 weeks)
-
GRFD 124
Adobe After Effects
None
1-1-2
32
-
GRFD 125
Adobe XD
None
1-1-2
32
-
GRFD 126
Photography for Graphic Designer
None
1-1-2
32
-
GRFD 140
Internship I
None
1-0-0
-
-
Total:
96 + 128 (internship)
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Level 3 (8 weeks)
-
GRFD 127
Printing and Digital Publishing
None
2-1-3
48
-
GRFD 128
Branding and Packaging in Graphic Design
GRFD 121 & GRFD 122
2-1-3
48
-
Total:
96
-
Level 4 (8 weeks)
-
GRFD 129
Rhino 3D Design
None
2-1-3
48
-
GRFD 130
Professional Practices and Marketing
GRFD 121, GRFD 122, GRFD 126
2-1-3
48
-
GRFD 240
Internship II
None
0-0-3
-
-
Total:
96 + 128 (internship)
-
Total Credit Hours:
30
