Communication Design

Program Narrative
Communication design is a dynamic and rapidly growing profession in the "new media" marketplace. Development of new media, such as, the World Wide Web, interactive multi-media, E-Commerce and 3-D computer animation, offers a variety of opportunities for the creative individual trained in effective communication design skills.

The Communication Design program will assist you in developing the creative, conceptual and technical skills necessary to meet the challenge of the digital print and new media marketplaces, and to create the opportunity for you to gain employment in the field, or to transfer to a four year institution. Program offered in the day.

Hands-On Learning
Northampton's Communication Design program offers you a well-balanced education through classroom and laboratory learning experiences in the College's state-of-the art facilities. This education will be critical when graduates enter the workforce or transfer to baccalaureate degree programs.

Who should apply for this program?

• High school graduates.
• College students.
• Individuals presently employed in the communication arts field.
• Individuals considering a career change.

Job Opportunities
As a graduate of the Communication Design program you can expect to find employment as a graphic designer, computer graphics artist, free-lance designer, illustrator, web designer or computer animator with such employers as advertising agencies, design studios, printing companies, in-house corporate communications departments.

Program Requirements
Applicants to the program are required to pass an art test as part of the admissions requirements. Contact the Admissions Office at 610-861-5500 for advising and to request a copy of the art test.

Program Outcomes
Graduates of the program will:

• Recognize and use technical and aesthetic terminology of communication design.
• Create work that exhibits proficiency in both design and technical aspects of new media including: print, web, motion design and video game design.
• Demonstrate an understanding of the design industries' best-practices and theories that reflect current and historical cultural trends.
• Understand basic principles and practices of marketing and advertising.
• Create a professional design portfolio (hard copy and web) and professional identity kit.
• Be prepared for an entry-level position in communication design.