The AAS degree program in Communication Design provides students with a solid foundation in the theory and current practices of the communication design profession and a grounding in general education.

There is no portfolio requirement or experience necessary to enter this program. However, if you have previous experience in art and design techniques, we offer a deeply challenging experience. Our curriculum emphasizes a strong foundation in design principles, strategic thinking, and emerging technologies, enabling students to develop innovative solutions across a variety of courses in figure drawing, design and color, typography, photography and web design.

The program prepares students to continue on to upper-level course work and specialization in the design field. Graduates have a broad knowledge of the design profession, a solid foundation in liberal arts and sciences, and a well-rounded portfolio. They are prepared to assist art directors and designers in entry-level positions in Communication Design. New York City, a leading center of communication design in the United States with over 2,000 advertising agencies, design studios, publishing, and new media companies, offers graduates many possibilities for full-time or freelance employment in the field.

Many graduates have gone on to earn baccalaureate and graduate degrees in the fields of advertising design, graphic design, fine arts, and art education.

Learning Outcomes

Think creatively to combine or synthesize existing ideas or images in original ways.
Organize and interpret complex data.
Research and evaluate information sources.
Prepare and deliver oral communication that promotes knowledge and understanding.
Value cultural diversity and demonstrate the capacity to collaborate

Admission Information

Placement in the associate in applied science program requires a high school diploma or GED. Students need not have majored in art in high school, but it is desirable that entering students have taken some prior courses in typography, layout, design, and drawing or painting.

Advanced Standing Credits

Transfer students may request an application for advanced standing from the Office of the Registrar and file it during the announced filing period. Since there are differences in communication design courses offerings from one college to another, each application for advanced standing credits is reviewed individually. Credit is granted for courses taken at other colleges if the courses are considered equivalent to those offered at New York City College of Technology. Final determination of credits for advanced standing will be made by the registrar and the chair of the Communication Design Department.

Articulation Agreements

The department currently has articulation agreements with specific departments, degrees, and programs at Bronx Community College, Borough of Manhattan Community College, and Kingsborough Community College. The full agreements are available on the college website.

Accreditation

New York City College of Technology is an accredited institutional member of the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD).

Additional Costs

Textbooks                           $400
Professional Tools         $500
Materials Fees                $40
Supplies                               $600
Portfolio Preparation $150

Advisement Information

All students have dedicated program advisors. Our dedicated advisement site informs student of department degree maps, faculty availability, internships, clubs and sophomore review. Visit https://openlab.citytech.cuny.edu/comd-advisement/ for more details information.

Additionally, students can reach us at CommunicationDesign@citytech.cuny.edu.

Explore the Communication Design Department on the City Tech website.

Communication Design - AAS - Associate in Applied Science

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