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Illinois State University Announces Degree Program in Graphic Communications
In February, the Illinois Board of Higher Education approved a new Bachelor of Science degree in Graphic Communications at Illinois State University. Previously, students have either majored in Industrial Technology or Technology with only a concentration of courses in Graphic Communications.
The new standalone degree program represents a major commitment by the State of Illinois to support the graphic communications industry. As the school’s website points out: “The graphic-communications industry is one of the 10 largest industries in the United States. It includes more than 50,000 individual graphic-arts facilities throughout all 50 states. Close to one million people are employed in this industry, and the Chicago area is one of the most dynamic graphic centers in the country.”
Students in the Graphic Communications program can choose one of three concentrations: (1) Print Media Management; (2) Web Media Management; or (3) Packaging Graphics. Courses are designed to teach students how to create and manage websites, utilize different print production processes (including digital printing, lithography, screen printing, and flexography), and manage color from photography to output. They can also learn how to manage complex media projects related to the production and distribution of many different types of graphics.
The program is housed in 5,000 sq. ft. of laboratory and classroom space that includes a digital-media lab and a print-media lab.
As with most universities, ISU has limited resources for program development and seeks partners who may be willing to assist with equipment acquisition, software support, materials support, scholarships, and internships. Companies willing to assist should contact the program’s coordinator, Dr. Dan Wilson. Wilson has authored several Printing Industries Press books, including PrintScape, a Crash Course in Graphic Communications. He can be reached at dgwilso@ilstu.edu
For more information about the Graphic Communications curriculum and to take a virtual tour, visit www.tec.ilstu.edu