These employers cannot afford to have a large staff of various technical people to solve the wide array of problems. These employers need generalists with specific skills in the area of printing and digital graphic communications. As software advancements have made the operation of computers much easier, employers of FSU graduates have indicated that they do not need software- trained students. Employers need graduates who have a solid knowledge of the theory behind software applications and a firm understanding of networking and digital workflow. Transfer credits will be examined and accepted where appropriate from other associate degree programs such as visual communications, computer information systems, etc.
Printing constitutes the third largest manufacturing industry in the United States.
It ranks first in the number of manufacturing establishments. Automation and computerization of many production processes has increased volume in the printing industry, and has created new needs for knowledgeable management personnel. Graduates of the printing management bachelors degree program may become estimators, production planners, plant managers, production control expediters, customer service representatives printing sales personnel, and digital imaging specialists. Printing management is a third and fourth year curriculum. Entering students must have an associate degree in printing and digital graphic imaging from Ferris or another college or university.