According to the U.S. Labor Department, strong demand for art, illustration, and design by advertising agencies, publishing firms, and other businesses will stimulate faster-than-average growth for graphic artists through the year 2010.

Job prospects will be best for experienced, creative graduates who communicate well. The experience provided by the Graphic Design degree program at Finger Lakes Community College can help you meet the challenges of a highly competitive job market.

The Associate in Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree in Graphic Design at Finger Lakes stresses a solid foundation in drawing and two-dimensional design. The course work involves both theoretical as well as practical hands-on problem solving.

Computer technology plays a major role in the graphic arts industry, and our students are expected to become proficient in their use. The computer graphics lab has Macintosh computers equipped with publishing, design, and illustration software packages. Networked computer peripherals include laser printers, scanners, and color ink jet printers.

In addition, the College offers honors courses that provide enhanced educational experiences for students who have demonstrated outstanding academic ability. Enrollment in honors courses is open to qualified students enrolled in this degree program, as well as all other qualified FLCC students. Successful completion of honors courses or an Honors Certificate may increase student transfer options to four-year institutions.

Field trips to area museums and art galleries, along with visits to printing and design firms, enhance the student's appreciation for the variety of design ideas being utilized today.

Students have worked on an independent study basis at the Canandaigua Daily Messenger newspaper, Moore Printing Company, Welco Ad Corporation, and the Geneva Experiment Station in publication design.

The Art Club participates in Gallery openings, brings guest lecturers to campus, and organizes field trips to local and regional museums, workshops, and four-year colleges and universities.

Many graduates continue their education at both private and public four-year institutions such as the Rochester Institute of Technology, Syracuse University, SUNY Colleges at Buffalo, Oswego and New Paltz, and the Nazareth College of Rochester among others* in graphic design, art education, and illustration. Those seeking employment after graduation have a portfolio of their work which demonstrates their abilities for an entry-level position.

Graduates from the program are employed as publication directors, art directors, and package designers at RIT, City Newspaper, and Koch Container (respectively) and as freelance graphic designers.

The Occupational Outlook Handbook reports that in the year 2000 median annual earnings for graphic designers were $34,570. The highest earnings were seen by those working in the management, public relations, and advertising segments of the industry.

* This is a sampling of some of the four-year colleges and universities to which our students have transferred. Please consult your advisor or the Center for Advisement and Personal Development for a complete listing of transfer agreements between Finger Lakes Community College and four-year institutions.

Students meeting specific criteria have received Outstanding Transfer Student Scholarships from the Rochester Institute of Technology. For details, contact a member of the Graphic Design faculty or the Financial Aid Office.