The Visual Communication Degree (AAS) is offered through Art, Design, and Performing Arts Department.
The curriculum is rooted in a strong foundation of art and design skills, with classroom exercises providing practical and theoretical experience. Students develop skills and technical knowledge in industry standard software (such as Adobe Creative Suite) and industry standard equipment (including digital cameras, audio and lighting equipment, large-format printers, scanners, drawing tablets, and prepress considerations). Coursework also focuses on developing strong concepts, troubleshooting design issues, and critical thinking while working as an individual or in team-based environments.
Students will learn foundational skills applicable to career possibilities in many areas of visual communication, including graphic design, industrial design, illustration, photography, videography, motion graphics, animation, and more. At the end of the program, students will submit a comprehensive portfolio of work for faculty to review prior to graduation.
The AAS in Visual Communication degree is intended for students seeking to start a career upon completion of the program. Students interested in transferring to complete a fouryear Bachelor’s degree in a more specialized aspect of visual communication should review the Art transfer degrees in the catalog: the Associate in Arts (AA) and Associate in Fine Arts (AFA).
ArtFusion is produced every other year by and for the students of Black Hawk College. From essays to digital drawing to photography and painting, student works are featured throughout a professionally formatted and published magazine.
View the magazine as a flipbook.
View ArtFusion magazine (PDF)Students completing this program will be able to:
• Exhibit foundational art and design skills with a strong understanding and application of design principles and color theory.
• Exhibit technical knowledge in industry standard programs, including applications in the Adobe Creative Suite.
• Exhibit technical knowledge of industry standard equipment, including digital cameras, audio and lighting equipment, large-format printers, scanners, drawing tablets, and prepress considerations
• Work in an individual or team environment developing strong concepts, critical thinking skills, communication strategies, and problem-solving tactics.
• Communicate design concepts efficiently to supervisors, clients, and industry professionals.
• Create a comprehensive and quality portfolio demonstrating proficiency in multiple areas of visual communication, including ads and flyers, information graphics, photography, typographic design, web graphics, packaging, and more.