From T-shirts to billboards, graphic design surrounds us. In this hands-on program, students learn what the pros know about design, including digital photo manipulation and computer illustration. Topics include the principles of design, Web design, typography and color theory. Students learn using industry-standard hardware and software. Students will develop their portfolios through projects including logos, business packages, brochures, newsletters and billboards and websites.

About the Career

  • Art Directors

    Art directors are responsible for the visual style and images in magazines, newspapers, product packaging, and movie and television productions. They create the overall design of a project and direct others who develop artwork and layouts.

    The median salary in 2018 for art directors was $92,780.

    (Salaries from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics – Art Director Occupational Outlook)

  • Desktop Publishers

    Desktop publishers use computer software to design page layouts for newspapers, books, brochures, and other items that are printed or published online.

    The median salary in 2018 for desktop publishers was $42,910.

    (Salaries from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics – Desktop Publisher Occupational Outlook)

  • Graphic Designers

    Graphic designers color the world. They are in demand by many companies to craft publications, posters, logos, websites and other visual elements.

    The median salary in 2018 for graphic designers was $50,370.

    (Salaries from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics – Graphic Designer Occupational Outlook)

  • Multimedia Artists and Animators

    Multimedia artists and animators create animation and visual effects for television, movies, video games, and other forms of media.

    The median salary in 2018 for multimedia artists and animators was $72,520.

    (Salaries from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics – Multimedia Artists and AnimatorsOccupational Outlook)

  • Web Developers

    Web developers create attractive, easy-to-navigate websites, and the need for web developers could increase 22 percent by 2022.

    The median salary in 2018 for web developers was $69,430.

    (Salaries from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics – Web Developer Occupational Outlook)

  • Videographers

    Videographers capture images and edit them for many formats, such as movies, commercials, websites and social media.

    The median salary in 2018 for video editors and camera operators was $58,990.

    (Salaries from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics – Videographer Occupational Outlook)

Graduates find careers in advertising and public relations, printing, newspaper, publishing, computer system design and some manufacturing companies.

Graphic Art Degrees and Certificates

Financial Aid

The College of the Mainland Graphic Arts Program prepares students for success at a fraction of the cost of private institutions.

Students may apply for COM scholarships, and eligible students may also receive federal financial aid and grants. Call 409-933-8274 to see if you qualify for financial aid. For scholarships, call 409-933-8508 or visit www.com.edu/scholarships.

News

Ice Land Internship gives COM students experience

Graphic arts students create winning designs

La Marque adopts city poster created by COM student

Navicat Essentials website

From a Student

I am where I am because of the college and its instructors. In 1989 the college gave me the courage to pursue a career in graphic design. In 2005 the college again provided me with the motivation and skill to finish my associate degree and find a ‘day job’ with Texas A&M University.

-Tanya Baker