Art & Graphic Design

Art, A.S. (026)

Creativity takes shape through hands-on exploration, technical skill, and artistic expression in CCAC's Art program. From charcoal sketches and oil paintings to ceramics, sculpture and design, students build a strong foundation in studio practice, visual communication, and art history while developing the critical thinking and creative problem-solving skills needed to transfer to a four-year institution or pursue a career in the arts.

Guided by experienced faculty, students progress from foundational courses into more specialized study across a wide range of media. Through a combination of core classes and electives, students refine their technical abilities, develop personal artistic voices, and explore focused pathways in two-dimensional media, three-dimensional media, or graphic communications.

Students build strong visual literacy, aesthetic judgment, and creative problem-solving skills while assembling a diverse, professional portfolio of original work. Opportunities to exhibit artwork in our student art exhibitions or independent shows provide valuable real-world experience and community engagement.

Graduates of our program are well prepared to transfer to four-year institutions, embark on a career in the arts, or develop a personal studio practice.  The Associate of Science in Art degree is approved by the Pennsylvania Transfer and Articulation Oversight Committee, ensuring full transferability within the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education.

Graphic Communications, A.S. (374.3)

CCAC's Graphic Communications degree program exists at the intersection of art and technology, providing students with the skills to turn their creativity into a career. The curriculum provides foundational instruction in art history, social science and communication, as well as advanced coursework in design methodology, brand identity design, interactive design, packaging design and digital publishing.

The program is taught by experienced design professionals who can help students tailor their course selection to suit their individual goals. The flexible curriculum enables students to enroll in the best graphic communication design, art history and studio art electives for their plan, whether that includes graduating directly into the job market or transferring credits to another college or university.

Perfect for individuals who are both technical and creative, this program enables students to develop an innovative portfolio of conceptual design projects suitable for presenting to potential employers. Students acquire the aesthetic, conceptual and technical skills necessary for entry-level positions in the print or interactive design field.

Graduates may find employment as a graphic designer, illustrator, publication designer, web designer or freelance designer. They may also choose to continue their design and communication studies by transferring to a four-year institution.

Graphic Design, Certificate (376.3)

Whether you already have professional design experience or are an aspiring designer, students in this certificate program benefit from reviewing fundamental design principles and working with the latest technology.

Coursework addresses everything from drawing and color theory to conceptual development, typography, vector illustration, digital image compositing, logo design, interactive design and packaging design. Graduates are prepared for entry-level jobs in the design field, or they may use their credits to pursue a degree.