Communication Design
Department: Communication Design
Program Type: Art, Design, Theatre, and Music
Planning to Transfer? Learn more about the transfer process including the importance of choosing a major and transfer school.
Overview
Turn your creativity into a career with the Communication Design program at Elgin Community College (ECC). In this exciting and fast-growing field, you’ll learn how to combine images, color, typography, and technology to communicate ideas, tell stories, and connect with people through design. If you enjoy being creative—working with fonts, photos, video, and visual storytelling—this program could be a perfect fit for you.
The Communication Design program focuses on two key areas:
- Graphic Design, including Web Design and Digital Media
- Video and Motion Graphics Design
When applying for internships, freelance work, or full-time creative positions, you’ll complete real-world projects that help you build a professional portfolio—a must-have.
You’ll get hands-on experience in small classes using the same tools professionals use. Our instructors have real-world experience and will teach you design skills, software, and techniques used in today’s creative industries. You’ll work on projects that prepare you for real jobs and help you build a portfolio to show future employers.
Want more experience? Join the Spartan Design Club, where you can work on real client projects, collaborate with other creatives, and expand your professional expertise.
Prepare for Immediate Employment
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment opportunities in design and digital media continue growing as businesses, nonprofits, and content creators need skilled professionals to design websites, mobile apps, video platforms, and social media.
The rise of e-commerce, video marketing, and interactive media has led to a growing demand for creative professionals who can bring ideas to life visually. Refer to Career Coach for more information regarding similar occupations and compensation.
Plan of Study and Course Descriptions
Review the ECC catalog for details about the communication design plan of study and course descriptions.
Associate of Applied Science
Basic Vocational Certificate
Frequently Asked Questions
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, video and motion graphic artists fall under the category of film and video editors and camera operators. This job is projected to grow 12 percent from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average. About 9,400 job openings are projected each year, on average, over the next decade (visited April 26, 2023).
Employment for camera operators is expected to grow due to increased demand for online streaming and higher video production investments.
Getting a job as a Web Developer and Digital Designer
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for Web Designers is projected to grow 23 percent from 2021 to 2031, which is much faster than average. Roughly 21,800 job openings are projected each year, on average, over the decade (visited April 26, 2023).
With online offerings and e-commerce continuing to grow, the demand for web designers will continue to increase.
Getting a job in Graphic Design
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for Graphic Designers is projected to grow by 3 percent from 2021 to 2031. Over the decade, about 24,800 job openings are projected for graphic designers each year (visited April 26, 2023).
Refer to Career Coach for more information regarding similar occupations and compensation.
What program options does ECC offer?
ECC offers:
- Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Graphic Design or Videography & Motion Graphics
- Certificates in Adobe® Creative Suite, Web Design, and Video Motion Graphics
- Associate in Arts (AA) degree with Communication Design electives, ideal for students planning to transfer to a university
Get additional information, including course listings and class descriptions.
Are you unemployed or looking for a better career?
ECC is partnering with Kane County WIOA to offer free career training for in-demand jobs. Learn more and see if you qualify.
Contact
Admissions & Recruitment
Building B, Room B110
847-214-7385
Fax: 847-608-5458
admissions@elgin.edu
Hours
Monday through Thursday: 8 am to 7 pm
Fridays: 8 am to 4 pm
*Bilingual Admissions Coordinator: 847-214-7689