COCC Launches New Visual Arts Certificate Programs in Graphic Design and Illustration

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — The arts department at Central Oregon Community College will begin offering two unique visual arts certificate programs this fall, specializing in graphic design and illustration, the school announced Wednesday.

Presented as three-term programs, the certificates aim to provide job-ready skill sets. Additionally, either certificate can be combined with an additional semester of coursework to achieve both in just four terms. Students can take classes in person or online. Registration for these and all other COCC fall courses is now open at cocc.edu.

The one-year Graphic Design Certificate provides instruction for future art directors, graphic designers, marketers, UX/UI designers, and production artists. The curriculum covers primary artistic principles, digital photography, layout concepts, vector graphics, and strategic branding.

The one-year illustration certificate provides instruction for future illustrators, art directors, animators, game developers, and concept artists. The program covers primary artistic principles, digital painting, vector art, character and environment concept art, and complex concept illustration.

“This is one of the few illustration certificate programs in the state, and we are very excited to bring these programs to central Oregon,” said Venus Nguyen, assistant professor of art. . “For budding artists or other professions where these skills increase employability, this is a great way to launch a career.”

Some sectors of the graphic arts industry are currently forecasting above-average growth. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs in the field of art directors, for example, are expected to grow by 11% between 2020 and 2030.