Graphic Design (GRDE) - Ferris Course Catalog

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Graphic Design GRDE

Degree Type: Associate in Applied Science

College(s): Business

Required Courses		Credit Hours
MAJOR
GRDE 109	Drawing for Media Applications	3
GRDE 110	Design 1	3
GRDE 114	Design Survey	3
GRDE 116	Computers in Visual Media	3
GRDE 120	Design 2	3
GRDE 126	Digital Illustration - Layout	3
GRDE 210	Typography	3
GRDE 216	Digital Imaging	3
GRDE 226	Prin of Interactive Design	3
GRDE 228	Interactive Media Development	3
GRDE 299	Typographics	3
RELATED
MKTG 231	Professional Selling	3
UNIVERSITY GENERAL EDUCATION
Communication Competence
*	COMM 121 or COMM 105	3
ENGL 150	English 1	3
ENGL 250	English 2	3
Scientific Understanding
*	Lab Science Elective	4
Quantitative Skills
MATH 115	Intermediate Algebra	3
*	(If MATH ACT is 24 or higher, substitute a general education elective)
Cultural Enrichment
*	Art History Electives	6
Social Awareness
*	Social Awareness Elective - ECON 221 recommended	3
Minimum credit hours required for A.A.S. degree:		61

Why Choose an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Graphic Design?

Graphic Design at Ferris State University allows you to work toward an associate degree without any prior experience in design. A portfolio of previous work is not required for acceptance into the program. You'll spend two years developing a strong fundamental knowledge of design principles, typography, drawing, and computer applications. This foundation helps you determine whether Graphic Design is the right career choice for you. You will also have exposure and practice in verbal and visual presentations and will develop the professional skills needed to succeed.

The integration of business and marketing courses provides a broader range of skills applicable in today's job market. The AAS degree provides a design and technical background for a smooth transition into the Bachelor degree program in Graphic Design or other Bachelor degrees in related areas.

Career Opportunities

Graduates with the Graphic Design Associate degree will be qualified for design assistant and technical support positions in the field of Graphic Design.

Admission Requirements

New Students: 2.5 GPA (on a 4.0 scale) from high school and twoof the following three criteria: (1) English ACT score of 16 or higher, or English SAT score of 370 or higher; (2) Math ACT score of 19 or higher, or Math SAT score of 460 or higher; (3) Reading ACT score of 19 or higher, or Verbal SAT score of 430 or higher. New students who meet the criteria will be admitted into the Graphic Design Applied Associate Degree. Students must successfully pass a portfolio review after completion of sophomore level program courses to be accepted into the Graphic Design Bachelor's Degree.

Transfer Students: Combined college or university GPA of 2.35 (on a 4.0 scale) from all institutions attended, and the following criteria: (1) transfer equivalency for ENGL 150 or placement in ENGL 150 the first semester at FSU which would require an English ACT score of 16 or higher; (2) transfer equivalency for FSU MATH 115 or placement in MATH 115 the first semester at FSU which would require a Math ACT score of 19 or higher; (3) submit and pass a portfolio review (see program coordinator for portfolio review details.)

Exceptions: Applicants not meeting the above criteria (new or transfer students) for direct admission into the Graphic Design program, but still meet Ferris State University admissions criteria, will be placed in the Pre-Marketing program until the admission criteria are met. Any mitigating circumstances will be considered on an individual basis by the College of Business Dean's Office.

Graduation Requirements

The Graphic Design program at Ferris leads to an associate in applied science degree. Graduation requires a minimum 2.0 GPA in the major courses and overall.

Students wishing to apply for the bachelor's degree in Graphic Design must complete the associate degree with a minimum 2.7 GPA in the major courses and a minimum 2.0 GPA overall. They must also successfully pass the sophomore portfolio review.

More Information

Graphic Design
119 South Street/BUS 302
Big Rapids, MI 49307-2284
Phone: 231-591-2442
Email: GRDE@ferris.edu