As the world becomes more and more technologically driven, the need for competent professionals in digital technology & design is growing. According to the Onward Search Digital, Creative and Marketing Salary Guide, 2019 saw a rise in demand for the services of programmers, developers, and, in particular, designers — with UX, UI, and visual designers being the second, third and fourth most sought-after professionals in the realm of creative talent.
Many industries employ graduates from these disciplines. Developing and creating phone apps, games, and websites, as well as whole visual identities and interfaces are some of their tasks. Experts in UX (user experience), UI (user interface), and development of applications and web content don’t just need a strong grasp on computer science and coding; graphic and visual design skills are an essential part of the job.
Bridging the gap between user and developer by focusing on the visual aspects is the goal of a Bachelor of Science in Digital Technology & Design with a Concentration in Graphic Communications. Making interfaces more friendly and simple to use is a job that requires integrating multimedia production and understanding a variety of human and computer-related subjects.
What Can You Learn With a Bachelor of Science in Digital Technology & Design With a Concentration in Graphic Communications Online?
Throughout the A-State’s degree program, you will learn to come up with inventive ideas for a wide array of digital experiences, focusing on the user of the app, website, game or program. The graphic design component ensures that you will also be knowledgeable in the field of printed media, such as newspapers, magazines, brochures and other press material.
To earn the degree, you must complete 120 credits in courses that cover some of the following topics:
- User and human-centered design
- Production design, print production and publishing
- Front-end web and app development
- 3D graphics and game design
- Social media and its role in PR and marketing
- Portfolio creation
Students are expected to become skilled users of creative software — such as Photoshop, InDesign, XD, Illustrator, Premiere and other components of the Adobe Creative Suite — as well as mobile operating systems like iOS and Android. HTML and CSS will also be taught as tools for creating sophisticated web pages.
The degree takes a hands-on, career-oriented approach. By the end of your studies, you’ll have the tools to develop a professional portfolio with real-world application in the digital market.
The flexibility of an online degree program means you can go at your own pace and attend classes from the comfort of home. At Arkansas State University you are able to pay tuition by the course, choosing how you want to coordinate your studies with other family and work responsibilities.
Career Options
Arkansas State University seeks to prepare students to be well-rounded professionals ready to succeed in any branch of the digital technology & design field, including marketing, agency, and design. Program graduates can pursue a number of interesting careers with high salary potential. PayScale names average salaries for some of the jobs available to graduates of a BS in Digital Technology & Design with a Concentration in Graphic Communications program:
- Graphic designer: Ranges from $33k to $63k, with a median salary of $45K per year.
- Mobile-app developer: Ranges from $50k to $112K, with a median salary of $73K per year
- UX designer: Ranges from $50K to $107K, with a median salary of $74K per year.
Other professions associated with the degree are art director, digital strategist, web developer, UI designer and interactive designer.
Learn more about A-State’s B.S. in Digital Technology & Design with a Concentration in Graphic Communications online program.
Sources:
Onward Search: 2019 Salary Guide – Digital, Creative & Marketing