Visual Communications

Associate of Applied Science Degree (A.A.S.) with a concentration in Graphic Design and Photography
Contact Information: Program Office 615-353-3531, Program Site

The Visual Communications program provides a vibrant environment that prepares students to be creative and critical thinkers who use design and photography to communicate effectively. This immersive program gives students access to professional technology and experienced faculty to learn principles of visual communications, sound business practices and portfolio development. With concentrations in Graphic Design and Photography, students can focus on the skills needed to pursue a creative career. 

Graduates of the program should be able to:

• Demonstrate technical proficiency of hardware and software applications related to discipline;
• Exhibit creative and conceptual visual skills and craft through creative problem-solving;
• Demonstrate time management skills by meeting deadlines;
• Create a portfolio that is displayed in a professional manner; and
• Demonstrate knowledge of business issues relevant to the Visual Communications industry.

Grading Policy

A grade of “C” or above must be earned in all COM and PHO courses to meet prerequisite and graduation requirements.

Transfer/Advising

The A.A.S. degree is designed to prepare a student for employment upon graduation. Some universities, at their discretion, accept some technical courses for transfer. A student who plans to transfer to a university should consult his/her advisor and the receiving university about transfer and articulation policies. Failure to do so could result in loss of transfer credits.

Photography Concentration

The Photography Concentration includes traditional and digital components, preparing photographers to work effectively in darkroom, studio, and digital environments.

Graduates of the program should be able to:

• Convey an intended message photographically;
• Efficiently operate a digital SLR and a 35mm film SLR camera;
• Work comfortably with digital imaging computer programs;
• Function competently in a photography lab;
• Efficiently operate professional studio lighting equipment;
• Approach photographic problem-solving in a creative manner; and
• Produce and present a professional quality portfolio.

Career Opportunities

• Photographer
• Photographer’s Assistant
• Lab Technician
• Photo Retoucher/ Photo Editor 

NOTES:

Part-time students and those required to take Learning Support classes should consult with their PHO faculty advisor prior to their first-semester registration.

Additional course requirements: The Tennessee Board of Regents requires that students either demonstrate the appropriate skill levels in math, reading, and/or writing before enrolling in college-level courses or enroll in appropriate co-requisite experiences with college-level courses to develop competency in those skills while performing college-level work. ACT/SAT scores, classic ACCUPLACER test scores, next-generation ACCUPLACER test scores, or other relevant information determine whether a student needs to enroll in co-requisite courses in math, reading, and/or writing (English).

Internships can be an important addition to a student’s formal classroom work and may substitute for technical courses with the prior approval of the instructor. The Career Services Office will provide the correct course numbers.
 

* This course is part of the general education core.

** PHO 1110 and COM 1230 must be taken in the First Year Fall Semester in order to complete the degree in a two-year timeframe.