Computer graphic arts

Are you ready to turn your artistic talents and technical skills into a rewarding career in graphic design and digital media? Stark State Collegeโ€™s computer graphic arts technology is your gateway to mastering the art and science of visual communication.

Program at a glance

DEGREE TYPE

Associate of Applied Science

PROGRAM FORMAT

In person*

LENGTH (FULL TIME)

2-semester certificate

4-semester degree

CAREER COMMUNITY

Computer science, information technology, security and digital media

Please note: Many Stark State classes have online and in-person options.

When you choose computer graphic arts at Stark State, youโ€™ll learn from instructors with real-world experience and receive training using the latest programs and techniques that prepare you for your bachelorโ€™s or to enter the workforce.

Gain practical experience with industry-standard graphic design software and tools, including Adobe Creative Suite, to create stunning visual content. Through project-based assignments, youโ€™ll build real pieces that mirror the kind of work produced in professional design studios.

Our curriculum is tailored to equip you with the skills employers are looking for. From concept development to final production, youโ€™ll learn every step of the graphic design process. Youโ€™ll also gain experience working with deadlines, client-style briefs, and collaborative projects that reflect real workplace expectations.

Build a professional portfolio that showcases your best work and demonstrates your abilities to potential employers. Youโ€™ll graduate with a strong, diverse portfolio that sets you apart in the job market. Faculty guidance helps you refine your presentation and curate pieces that align with your career goals.

Learn from seasoned professionals who bring real-world experience and insights into the classroom. They provide practical feedback, industry tips, and mentorship to help you grow as a creative professional.


Graduates of the computer graphic arts program are prepared for a variety of exciting careers in fields such as:

  • graphic design
  • Web design
  • digital media
  • advertising
  • animation
  • multimedia production

FAQs

Graduates find work in a wide variety of creative roles across nearly every industry. Common job titles include:

  • Graphic Designer:โ€ฏCreating logos, websites, advertisements, and branding materials.
  • UI/UX Designer:โ€ฏDesigning the look, feel, and functionality of screen graphics.
  • Illustrator:โ€ฏCreating original artwork for books, magazines, websites, and products.
  • Production Artist:โ€ฏPreparing design files for print or digital publication.
  • Marketing Specialist:โ€ฏDesigning visuals for social media, email campaigns, and advertising.
  • Photographer/Photo Editor:โ€ฏCapturing and retouching images for commercial use.

Yes, absolutely. While some positions may require a four-year degree, the creative industry places the highest value on a strong portfolio. A two-year degree program is specifically designed to provide you with the essential skills and a diverse range of projects needed to build a professional-quality portfolio that will impress employers.

The job outlook is stable and continues to evolve. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, demand remains strong, especially for designers with skills in web design, animation, and user experience (UX). As companies increasingly rely on digital marketing and online presence, the need for skilled visual communicators is constant.

While drawing skills are a definite advantage, especially for illustration, they are not a requirement for all areas of graphic design. The field is more about visual problem-solving, communication, and organizing information using typography, color, and layout. We teach you the design principles and software skills you need from the ground up.

You will become proficient in the industry-standard software suite used by professionals worldwide:โ€ฏAdobe Creative Cloud. This includes core programs likeโ€ฏPhotoshopโ€ฏfor image editing,โ€ฏIllustratorโ€ฏfor vector graphics and illustration, andโ€ฏInDesignโ€ฏfor layout design, as well as an introduction to UI/UX tools like Adobe XD or Figma.

It is highly recommended that students have a modern and capable computer that can run professional design software smoothly. Both Mac and PC platforms are used in the industry. We provide specific hardware recommendations to ensure you can handle the demands of your coursework.

Meet the faculty

Michelle Lash
Michelle Lash

Assistant Professor

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C100y

phone

330-494-6170 ext. 4509

James Leatherbarrow
James Leatherbarrow

Associate Professor

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C100ai

phone

330-494-6170 ext. 4541

Ralph Lumley
Ralph Lumley

Instructor

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C100ah

phone

330-494-6170 ext. 4805

link
Eugene Starr
Eugene Starr

Associate Professor

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C100ac

phone

330-494-6170 ext. 4774

link

Looking for more career options? Check out these other programs.

Lowest tuition around

Put your money toward your goals – not debt.

Stark Stateโ€™s tuition costs up to 83% less than other area colleges and universities. Along with financial aid and scholarship opportunities, you gain the most value for your education without sacrificing quality.

Rene Eneix, MA, CRI
Department Chair, Digital Media and Administrative Technologies

phone

330-494-6170 ext. 4876

Take the next step

Whether youโ€™re just starting out, making your college comeback or looking for a change, you belong at Stark State.