Seattle Central Community College offers an Associate of Applied Science degree and a certificate in graphic design. The A.A.S. program generally takes about two years to complete and requires 120 credits. The certificate option requires 108 credits for completion. Students develop a professional portfolio as part of the program. Coursework focuses on both traditional design skills, such as drawing and typography, and computer-based design technology, using programs such as Adobe Illustrator, InDesign and Macromedia Flash. Classes include subjects such as graphic productions, graphic design history, art production, color theory, new media, illustration and multimedia. All instructors have design industry experience.
Seattle Central Community College
1701 Broadway
Seattle, WA 98122
206-587-3800
seattlecentral.edu/programs/graphicdesign/
Seattle's International Academy of Design and Technology offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in graphic design. According to the school's website, coursework emphasizes "an understanding of the role of form, function, creativity and critical viewpoint in the creation of visual communications" in order to prepare students to develop and produce effective print and web materials. Class sizes are limited to keep the student-faculty ratio low. Classes are offered in the day, evening and on the weekends. The International Academy's Career Services Department offers employment help such as portfolio development, networking and connections to large corporations. Coursework includes topics such as typography, web design, branding and marketing.
International Academy of Design & Technology-Seattle
645 Andover Park W.
Seattle, WA 98188
206-575-1865
iadtseattle.com/programs/graphicdesign.asp
Since 1971, the School of Visual Concepts has offered a certificate of completion in graphic design. Enrollment ranges from 300 to 400 students per semester, with an average class size of 12 to 16 students. Classes are taught by professional graphic designers, all of whom are currently working in their fields. Most classes are held in the evening so students can work during normal business hours. The School of Visual Concepts focuses on creating an effective portfolio of student work to help students find employment upon graduation. Graphic design certificates generally take 12 quarters to complete and include classes such as brainstorming and creativity, elements of drawing, project management and copywriting for design and web. Computer training includes software such as Photoshop, InDesign, Dreamweaver and Flash.
School of Visual Concepts
500 Aurora Ave. N.
Seattle, WA 98109
206-623-1560
svcseattle.com/