The Art Institute of Philadelphia is the first step toward a career in graphic design. Initially, Art Institute Graphic Design students develop an understanding of color and composition, design, typography, and drawing. As they progress through the program, students choose from courses in design and advertising art, and are trained in creative problem-solving and the ability to offer solutions that are effective in the business of commercial graphics. Emphasis is placed on learning the skills and techniques of computer graphics, electronic imaging, and production. Tools include scanners, and computer-based hardware and software such as the Macintosh personal computer using Adobe PhotoShop , QuarkXPress , Adobe Illustrator , and other applications.
Advanced training includes the execution of assignments encountered by professionals in the field.
By graduation, Graphic Design students have acquired the training and the portfolio necessary to interview for entry-level positions in advertising agencies, design studios, publishing houses, corporate and communications departments. Art Institute graduates find work as production artists, graphic designers, assistant designers, assistant art directors, paste-up artists, production coordinators, and computer artists. After gaining professional experience, some of our graduates may go on to advanced positions such as art director, creative director, studio manager, or production manager. Others may establish their own design firms or take on challenging freelance assignments.