Good design pleases the eye.

Great design solves problems.

Learn to see the difference and
craft both.
student at a computer

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Graphic Design
Program Number: 102011
Your Degree: Associate Degree
Estimated Time to Complete: 65 Credits | Finish degree in 2 years
Delivery Method: Some Online/Some In Person
Area of Study: Arts, Design and Humanities
Estimated Program Cost: $12,628.55
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  • Program Overview

    Graphic design is one of the creative fields where AI is changing daily work in real time. Routine production, first-draft concepts, and basic asset generation can now happen in seconds. That hasn't made design skills less valuable; it's made creative thinking and problem-solving the most valuable part of the job. Coming up with the idea, deciding what works, and shaping it into something real is still human work.

    That's what the Graphic Design associate degree at Madison College is built to teach. You'll develop a strong foundation in the fundamentals that define every working designer, including typography, illustration, color theory, brand identity, and print and digital production, with hands-on work in industry-standard software and tools. Whether you lean into new tools or lean on traditional craft, you'll graduate with the fundamentals to back up either approach.

    Studio courses are built around critique from day one, so you'll graduate knowing how to present your work, defend your decisions, and take feedback the way working professionals do.

    Your instructors bring hands-on agency and freelance experience into the classroom, translating what's actually happening in the field into coursework. And you'll leave with a portfolio built for the college's biannual portfolio show, presenting your work to a real audience of Madison-area employers, not just a classroom critique.

    Program Details

    Students in the Graphic Design program can attend full or part time.

    Graphic Design classes are offered at the Madison College Truax campus.

    Your Advantages at Madison College

    • Learn from faculty with real industry experience in graphic design and brand strategy.
    • Build both timeless craft skills (typography, color theory, illustration, production) and current ones (AI-assisted workflows, digital brand systems).
    • Join American Institute of Graphic Arts (AIGA) and start building your professional network before you graduate.
    • Show your work to Madison-area employers at Madison College's portfolio show: a real professional debut, not a class critique.
    • Already ahead: Crossover coursework in UX/IxD means interested Graphic Design students get a head start on the UX/UI Technical Diploma, which can be completed in about a year on top of your associate degree.

    Careers in Graphic Design

    Prospective employers throughout Madison consider Madison College Graphic Design graduates top candidates. Associate degree graduates are ready for a range of professional positions in the field of graphic design, including:

    • Graphic Designer
    • Brand / Visual Identity Designer
    • Art Director
    • Production Artist
    • Illustrator
    • Web/Interactive Designer

    Coursework also builds the business skills — pricing, contracts, client management — to freelance independently.

  • Program Courses

    Here's a sample course sequence that shows how classes for full-time students are typically organized by semester. 

    Once you're admitted, your full curriculum and sequence—including any pre-requisites—is defined in your Degree Progress Report.

    First Semester
    10-201-102
    Design Fundamentals
    In this class you will be introduced to the elements and principles of design. This semester long class meets 6 hours a week, and introduces students to the design elements of line, shape, space, color, texture, color, and typography through hands on explorations and creative exercises. The supporting design principles and theories are taught, along with course materials that introduces students to Graphic Design history, and the role of Graphic Design in contemporary society.
    3 credits
    10-201-103
    Drawing Fundamentals
    An introductory course to build draftsmanship and confidence in basic observational drawing skills. It includes the study of proportion, line and tone, light source, composition, perspective, human anatomy and life drawing. This is a foundation course with emphasis on technical skill-building, class discussion of contemporary and historical art, daily sketchbook practice and hands-on learning.
    3 credits
    10-201-136
    Concept Development
    Introduces exercises and processes to foster creativity and the development of unique ideas for graphic design, advertising and digital applications. Emphasis is placed on improving research, brainstorming, writing, speaking and critical thinking skills. Working individually, in teams and in groups, students will come up with unexpected solutions to realistic and contemporary industry problems. Visual presentations cover a wide range of levels of finish and incorporate traditional and digital media and rendering techniques.
    2 credits
    10-201-137
    Survey of Design
    This course focuses on the Graphic and Web/Interactive design professions, the personal qualities and aptitudes of a designer, and the broad range of career opportunities and tasks performed. The course also offers students an introduction to the requirements and demands of the program and a career in the design industry.
    1 credit
    10-201-181
    Introduction to Design Software
    An introduction to professional software used in the preparation of digital files including photography, graphic design, layout, typography and illustration using Adobe Photoshop, InDesign, and Illustrator. This is a foundation course for web, print, new media and other communication graphics. This course used to be named Intro to Computer Graphics.
    3 credits
    10-801-195
    Written Communication
    Develops workplace writing skills which include prewriting, drafting, revising, and editing. A variety of writing assignments are designed to help the learner analyze audience and purpose, research and organize ideas, and format and design documents based on workplace subject matter and content.
    3 credits
    10-804-123
    Math with Business Applications
    This course integrates algebraic concepts, proportions, percents, simple interest, compound interest, annuities, and basic statistics with business/consumer scenarios. It also applies math concepts to the purchasing/buying and selling processes.
    3 credits
    Second Semester
    10-201-151
    Typography
    This class is an investigation of all things type related. Students will develop an eye for type and understand how to use it effectively in their design work. Topics include the principles of good typography, type terminology and history, font selection and pairing, letter, word and line spacing, typographic hierarchy, paragraphs and layout, character and paragraph styles, using a grid, trends in typography and the importance of type as the foundation of visual communication.
    3 credits
    10-201-152
    Illustration & Color
    A variety of digital tools, techniques, and styles are used to enhance the drawing skills of visual artists and designers. Levels of drawing from loose sketches to tightly finished art are explored with an emphasis on mastery of both vector and raster formatted illustrative work. Projects will be predominantly representational in both substance and style, with a concentration on the role of color in the communication of ideas.
    2 credits
    10-201-177
    Web Design
    Learn basic web coding skills using HTML5, CSS, and incorporating Javascript. Design, page layout, web typography, and graphic preparation will introduce user interface (UI) skills. Students will also learn about uploading files, server space, testing, usability, accessibility, and browser compatibility.
    3 credits
    10-201-182
    Advanced Design Software
    This course moves beyond the aesthetic and technical expectations of introductory computer graphics to expand student knowledge and skills in professional design software (Adobe Creative Cloud). Students will concentrate on advanced techniques, efficient workflows, file organization, and current applications to create various projects emphasizing original concepts, strong images, type integration, and preparing files for print and screen.
    3 credits
    10-203-130
    Introduction to Photography and Video
    An Introduction to the common elements of the photography and videography process. The basic principles of effective composition, lighting, exposure and control of motion and focus are covered. Basics of portraiture and product photography is studied in a studio environment. Specific requirements to video content creation are addressed. Participants provide their own video-enabled DSLR camera. Please contact your program director prior to any camera purchase.
    2 credits
    10-801-196
    Oral/Interpersonal Communication
    Focuses on developing effective listening techniques and verbal and nonverbal communication skills through oral presentation, group activity, and other projects. The study of self, conflict, and cultural contexts will be explored, as well as their impact on communication.
    3 credits
    Third Semester
    10-201-106
    Advanced Illustration
    An advanced course that explores diverse conceptual image making practices for a variety of illustrative disciplines. Emphasis is placed on creativity, style and media exploration, and producing full-color portfolio pieces using a combination of traditional and digital techniques. The course also introduces historical and contemporary usages of Illustration and elements of professional practice such as time keeping, invoicing and how to maintain and communicate effectively with clients.
    3 credits
    10-201-110
    Advanced Typography
    Through lecture, demonstrations and applied projects students explore and develop the effective use of type in graphic design.
    2 credits
    10-201-121
    Graphic Design Workshop
    Explore the role, meaning and making of graphic design in our society. The course covers icons and symbols, logos and identity, pattern, texture, layout, design trends, design history, resources for designers as well as the professional practices and the field of graphic design today. Projects cover a range of applications, with emphasis on concept, process, presentation and communication.
    3 credits
    10-201-128
    Print & Digital Production
    Practical training in production of digital composition. The student learns to solve realistic print and digital design problems from rough layout through production by completing a variety of increasingly complex assignments.
    3 credits
    10-206-129
    Motion Design
    Learn animation and movement for time-based media, with an emphasis on communication design. Students use Adobe After Effects to integrate typography, illustration, video, and audio files to create industry relevant projects. Concept development, file management, character animation, transitions, and rendering for multiple output types will be covered in detail.
    2 credits
    10-809-199
    Psychology Of Human Relations
    This course explores the relationship between general psychological principles and our everyday lives. Students are given the opportunity to achieve a deepened sense of awareness of themselves and others. This understanding is applied to human relations at home and on the job.
    3 credits
    Fourth Semester
    10-201-153
    Integrated Design
    Students will simulate the experience of helping a client launch a brand. Students produce a cohesive set of projects including logo and identity, brand standards guide, web presence, motion graphics, and unique print collateral materials appropriate to support this new venture. Smaller independent projects provide additional opportunities to include multi-piece collections for their portfolio.
    2 credits
    10-201-154
    Design Project Management
    This class covers general business practices, work-flow and advance production techniques in the design field through applied projects. Collaboration is emphasized where teams apply business practice in developing a product from concept to actual launch. Students will work through the process of producing a photo shoot and prepare files for a variety of media channels. This is an advanced level course with an emphasis on portfolio level work and professionalism.
    3 credits
    10-201-162
    Portfolio Preparation
    Students prepare a portfolio of their work and various business materials to apply for employment. Students are supervised and assisted in choice and number of samples, and portfolio layout. Lectures are given on job interviewing and job markets. Faculty approval of a finished portfolio is required for graduation.
    2 credits
    10-201-184
    Advanced Design & Layout
    This course focuses on concept and the creation of unique and unifying visual solutions applied to print and digital media. Students will deepen their knowledge of previously learned competencies such as composition, hierarchy, typography and color. Projects are designed to give freedom to explore various styles and a range of ideas that mimic a typical agency setting. This is an advanced-level course with an emphasis on portfolio-quality work.
    2 credits
    10-809-197
    Contemporary American Society
    This is an interdisciplinary course covering issues that illustrate how our traditional institutions (such as family, education, media, the workplace, the economy and government) are being changed by global political, demographic, multicultural and technological trends. By exploring contemporary issues, students expand their use of critical-thinking skills.
    3 credits
    Electives
    3 credits
    Recommended Elective Course Options
    Print Media
    10-201-144
    Principles of Letterpress: Design and Printing
    Provides a foundation in designing for letterpress including typography, composition, image creation/selection, color separation, and ink and paper selection. Students will be introduced to professional practices in a letterpress shop, terminology, composing, prepress, locking up and printing generated on a variety of presses. Artwork will be created with metal and wood handset type, and photopolymer plates using Adobe Illustrator software.
    3 credits
    10-201-145
    Introduction to Screen Printing
    Investigation into the tools, techniques and technologies of serigraphy, also known as screen printing. Students learn the safety issues surrounding this printing format. Students investigate a variety of stencil methods and produce at least one project in each of four methods. Students are also introduced to the use of the variety of inks, fabrics and papers used for differing end products, as well as the use of solvents for diluting inks and cleaning up. Projects include the development of a retail product produced through screen printing that may be offered for sale in Madison College enterprise centers. Laboratory hours are allotted to provide flexible accumulation of credit hours. Budgets and production schedules are applied to projects.
    2 credits
    10-201-146
    Advanced Screen Printing Workshop
    This course is focused on advancing the skills of learners who have completed the Introduction to Screen Printing course and/or work experience. Emphasis will be put on concept, planning, and high-quality production of a variety of print projects. Projects will focus on further investigation into the use of specific inks, multiple layers of ink, screen mesh and stencil issues, various substrates and archival considerations. At least one multiple color fabric (or T-shirt) project will be addressed employing Plastisol inks and heat set equipment.
    2 credits
    10-201-147
    Advanced Letterpress Workshop
    This course will enable students who have completed the Principles of Letterpress course (or comparable coursework/experience) to continue to grow their knowledge and experience in letterpress printing. Projects will be both collaborative and self-directed. Students will become more familiar with press maintenance, set-up and the workings of a print shop. Students will gain entrepreneurial experience through creation of products for sale in pop-up events.
    2 credits
    Illustration
    10-201-183
    Electronic Illustration
    Explore digital illustration and surface pattern design using Procreate on the iPad. Students will create original artwork, illustrations, and repeat patterns while developing skills in digital drawing, color, composition, and collection development. Projects focus on designing artwork for products such as textiles, stationery, gift wrap, greeting cards, home décor, and other surface applications. Traditional and digital techniques are combined throughout the course to prepare students for contemporary creative practice. Students can use a school iPad or use their own.
    2 credits
    10-201-169
    Business of Graphic Design & Illustration
    This course introduces students to the business aspects of entrepreneurial and freelance design and illustration. Topics include setting up a business, finding your niche, targeting markets, developing a creative process, following a client brief, pricing, negotiating fees and invoicing, navigating contracts, managing a freelance workflow, passive income strategies, tax and legal considerations, referrals and how build your client base.
    2 credits
    Web Design
    10-201-156
    Front-End Web Design
    Students will continue to master HTML and CSS, with an introduction to Javascript and other programming languages. Creative, hands-on projects will be designed and programmed for a front-end, user interface context.
    3 credits
    10-201-195
    Advanced Digital Development
    This course will explore building web sites using Content Management Systems. It will introduce the basics of both WordPress.com (cloud hosted), and WordPress.org (self-hosted). Students will learn now to publish posts and pages, work with themes, employ widgets, create custom menus, activate plugins, and utilize page templates. Students will also build their own page designs from scratch. The course requires text editing software, ftp software, Adobe Create Cloud, and the current version of WordPress. Students are required to acquire server space to host their work.
    3 credits
    Digital Design
    10-201-166
    UI Design
    This course introduces the theories, skills, and applications needed for designing digital user interfaces. Students explore UI design principles for screens, including layout, typography, color, imagery, iconography, interactivity, usability, accessibility, design patterns, and prototyping. Emphasis is placed on creating cohesive interfaces and preparing design files for development handoff.
    3 credits
    10-201-158
    Advanced Digital Design
    This course introduces students to working in a contemporary digital workflow and provides a studio-like experience. Students will focus on concept, user experience, and most importantly, design execution. They will use the skills they have acquired and work to develop real-world design solutions for a variety of digital mediums.
    2 credits
    10-201-116
    Figma Foundations
    Figma is a collaborative, cloud-based interface design tool used for creating user interfaces (UI), user experiences (UX), websites, and apps. Students will learn how to work with frames and layers, create simple layouts, apply basic text and color choices, and build a simple clickable digital flow. Using these foundational modules, students will build clean, organized files, recreate simple UI screens, and use foundational design workflows that prepare them for more advanced studio courses.
    1 credit
    UX Design
    10-201-163
    UX Foundations
    UX Foundations is designed to provide students with a strong foundational understanding of user experience design principles and practices. The course covers the key concepts and techniques necessary to design effective and engaging digital products and experiences. Throughout the course, students will learn about the importance of user-centered design and how to conduct user research to inform design decisions. The course will be hands-on, with students working on projects and assignments that simulate real-world UX design challenges.
    3 credits
    10-201-168
    Human Centered Design
    This course introduces the principles and philosophy of human-centered design. Students explore how design decisions affect people, experiences, and systems by examining human needs, behaviors, and contexts. Emphasis is placed on observation, reflection, ethical awareness, and iterative problem-solving. Through hands-on and collaborative activities, students develop a human-centered mindset applicable across a range of design challenges.
    2 credits
    Business of Design
    10-145-125
    Artificial Intelligence (AI) for Small Business Marketing
    This course explores how artificial intelligence can boost marketing strategies for small businesses. Learn to leverage AI tools for customer insights, targeted advertising, personalized content, and data-driven decision-making to enhance brand visibility, drive sales, and streamline marketing efforts effectively.
    3 credits
    20-801-240
    Creative Writing
    Students learn to manage the creative process through exercises and activities that lead to short stories and poetry; drama and creative non-fiction may be addressed as well. Reading assignments allow students to become familiar with principles and practice of various genres of creative writing and classroom activities prepare students for participating in workshop discussions.
    3 credits

  • How to Apply

    To Apply

    Earning a degree is a great way to advance your career development opportunities, so apply today!
    If you are an international student and want to apply to Madison College or transfer your F-1 student visa here, check program availability and complete the International Admission Process.

    Application Dates

    Fall 2026

    • Application open
    • Application completion deadline is August 31, 2026

    Spring 2027

    • Application open
    • Application completion deadline is January 15, 2027

    Summer 2027

    • Application available on September 15, 2026
    • Application completion deadline is June 15, 2027

    Fall 2027

    • Application available on October 15, 2026
    • Application completion deadline is August 31, 2027

    Admission Requirements

    All materials must be submitted by the application deadline.

    1. Admission Application

    The online application allows you to save your work as you complete it and ensures fast, secure delivery to our office.

    2. Education Completion

    Submit official transcripts from the institutions you attended that indicate one of the following:

    • High school completion (current high school seniors may submit an in-progress transcript)
    • GED/HSED completion
    • College transcript or Madison College experience showing:
      • Completion of an associate degree or higher, or
      • At least 30 credits completed with a minimum GPA of 2.0 on a 4-point scale
        • The credits must be completed at a single college and cannot be combined with other transcripts
        • Any transfer credit listed on a transcript does not count toward the 30-credit minimum
        • Credits completed at Madison College are evaluated and do not require a transcript

    All high school and/or college transcripts are recommended to be submitted for Credit for Prior Learning evaluation.

    Additional Notes

    Individual courses may have prerequisites to enroll. Admission into a certificate or waiting list does not guarantee eligibility to enroll in courses. See the Curriculum section for the list of courses for the certificate. 

    Questions?

    Contact the Enrollment Center at EnrollmentServices@madisoncollege.edu or 608.246.6210.

    apply for admission

    Get Started!

    Apply to Madison College and take the first step towards your Graphic Design career.

    It's Free to Apply

  • Transfer Opportunities

    Wisconsin Private Schools

    Edgewood University
    Outlines guaranteed admissions and efficient transfer for Madison College students who complete AAA in Graphic Design transferring to Edgewood University Graphic Design major.
    Lakeland University
    Student who earn an Associate Degree from Madison College can transfer a minimum of 60 credits and a maximum of 72 credits to Lakeland College to be applied to the requirements of the Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Sciences degree.

    Out-of-State Schools

    Franklin University
    Franklin University will guarantee acceptance of Madison College graduates with an AA, AS, or AAS. Madison College graduates will have junior standing at Franklin University and may transfer up to 94 additional credits toward their baccalaureate degree.

  • Career Outcomes

    After completing the Graphic Design program at Madison Area Technical College, you will be able to:

    • Implement creative solutions from concept through completion.
    • Apply the principles of design to develop strategic marketing and communication products and services.
    • Demonstrate proficiency in the use of design software, tools and technology.
    • Apply effective legal and ethical business practices and project management skills.
    • Communicate artwork rationale in formal and informal settings.
    • Create innovative visual solutions for a variety of design, advertising, media and artistic applications.

    Graduates are fully prepared for the graphic design process including the assessment of client needs, solutions development and analysis, collaboration, concept design, client consultation, pre-press and production. These are some of the aspects of creating graphic designs and illustrations to effectively communicate clients’ messages to their target audiences.

    • Graduate Summary

      Graduate Report Summary Overview

      		202320242025
      Number of Program Graduates345026
      Number of Surveys Sent345026
      Number of Surveys Returned273614
      Percent of Surveys Returned
      Available for Employment253411
      Percent Available for Employment92.6%94.4%78.6%
      Not in Labor Market
      Percent Not in Labor Market7.4%5.6%14.3%
      Available for Employment

      		202320242025
      Graduates Employed17248
      Percent of Graduates Employed68.0%70.6%72.7%
      Employed in Related Occupation13153
      Percent Employed in Related Occupation76.5%62.5%37.5%
      Employed in Unrelated Occupation495
      Percent Employed in Unrelated Occupation23.5%37.5%62.5%
      Employed - No Response000
      Percent Employed - No Response0.0%0.0%0.0%
      Seeking Employment8103
      Percent Seeking Employment32.0%29.4%27.3%
      Reaction To Training at Madison College

      		202320242025
      Student satisfaction Mean (Out of 4)3.53.53.6
      Number of Satisfaction Responses273514
      Very Satisfied (4)141910
      Percent Very Satisfied51.9%54.3%71.4%
      Satisfied (3)13163
      Percent Satisfied48.1%45.7%21.4%
      Unsatisfied (2)000
      Percent Unsatisfied0.0%0.0%0.0%
      Very Unsatisfied (1)
      Percent Very Unsatisfied0.0%0.0%7.1%
      Primary Reason for Attending Madison College

      		202320242025
      Number of Primary Reason Responses273614
      Preparation for Getting a Job19199
      Percent Preparation for Getting a Job70.4%52.8%64.3%
      Career Change5121
      Percent Career Change18.5%33.3%7.1%
      Improvement of Existing Skills214
      Percent Improvement of Existing Skills7.4%2.8%28.6%
      Preparation for Further Education010
      Percent Preparation for Further Education0.0%2.8%0.0%
      Personal Interest130
      Percent Personal Interest3.7%8.3%0.0%
      Other000
      Percent Other0.0%0.0%0.0%
      When Employment was Obtained

      		202320242025
      Number of When Employment Obtained Responses17248
      Before Enrollment422
      Percent Before Enrollment23.5%8.3%25.0%
      While Attending the College373
      Percent While Attending the College17.6%29.2%37.5%
      After Training at the College10153
      Percent After Training at the College58.8%62.5%37.5%
      Location of Employment (related and unrelated)

      		202320242025
      Number of Employment Location Responses17249
      In College District14195
      Percent In College District82.4%79.2%55.6%
      In Wisconsin, Not in District032
      Percent of In Wisconsin0.0%12.5%22.2%
      Outside of Wisconsin321
      Percent Outside Wisconsin17.6%8.3%11.1%
      Employer Location Unknown001
      Percent Location Unknown0.0%0.0%11.1%
      Salary Trend
      Salary Trend202320242025
      Full Time Employment (Related Job)Full Time Salary Count872
      Average Monthly Wage$5,127$3,712$4,049
      Average Hourly Wage$29.81$21.58$23.54
      Average Work Hours per Week39.839.440.0
      Part Time Employment (Related Job)Part Time Salary Count351
      Average Hourly Wage$24.00$16.50$43.59
      Average Work Hours per Week25.013.515.0

    • Graduate Employers

      Graduate Employers for academic year: 2025
      Employer(s)Job TitleCity*State**Positions
      Delicious Digital DesignsBusiness Owner/Graphic ArtistGlobeAZ
      Dominican Sisters Of SinsinawaCommunication & Graphic Design SpecialistSinsinawa
      SignalfireGraphic Design & Media CreatorDelavan

      * - Only cities outside of Madison will display.

      ** - Only states outside of Wisconsin will display.

      *** - If you have a position to post, please contact Career and Employment Services at jobpostings@madisoncollege.edu

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