# Graphic Design (Certificate of Achievement)

San Diego City College · 2026-2027 Catalog · Department: Design

Source: https://sdccd.curriqunet.com/catalog/iq/15604/15944/15945/15605/15678

### Summary

Graphic design is a field that uses visual communication and conceptual strategy to solve graphic problems. The program starts with strong foundational coursework and an early emphasis on typography and design principles. Guided by instructors who are working professionals, students use current industry software and processes to create professional design projects. With an emphasis on process, conceptual strategy, and professional practices, students are given broad opportunities to develop a unique voice, vision, and viewpoint. Using both print and digital formats, students produce projects that demonstrate an understanding of visual communication through brand strategy, interaction design, and typographic systems. The program culminates in a professional body of work that could be used to obtain employment or transfer to a four-year design program.

The Design Department requires students to complete all requirements for the certificate within seven years.

**Learning Outcome(s): Students who complete the Graphic Design Program will be able to:**

1.  Incorporate research processes and conceptual strategies to solve design problems.
2.  Demonstrate an understanding of visual coherence by building typographic systems.
3.  Demonstrate proficiency with current industry standard design software.
4.  Produce a body of work that demonstrates a unique voice, vision, and viewpoint.

### Requirements

| Course | Title | Units |
| --- | --- | --- |
| **COURSES REQUIRED FOR THE MAJOR:** | | 24 |
| DSGN 100 | Introduction to Graphic Design | 3 |
| DSGN 102 | Digital Media I | 3 |
| DSGN 104 | Graphic Design History | 3 |
| DSGN 106 | Typography I | 3 |
| DSGN 120 | Illustration | 3 |
| or DSGN 122 | Production Studio | 3 |
| DSGN 124 | Page Layout | 3 |
| DSGN 206 | Typography II | 3 |
| DSGN 210 | Branding and Packaging | 3 |
| **Complete two additional courses from the following:** | | 6 |
| DSGN 120 | Illustration | 3 |
| DSGN 122 | Production Studio | 3 |
| DSGN 143 | Interaction Design I | 3 |
| DSGN 153 | Interaction Design II | 3 |
| DSGN 202 | Digital Media II | 3 |
| DSGN 203 | Interaction Design III | 3 |
| DSGN 213 | Interaction Design IV | 3 |
| DSGN 216A | Design Studio I | 3 |
| DSGN 216B | Design Studio II | 3 |
| DSGN 216C | Design Studio III | 3 |
| DSGN 218 | Internship | 3 |
| DSGN 248 | Portfolio I | 3 |
| DSGN 258 | Portfolio II | 3 |