College of the Desert
Digital Design & Production: Digital design and production (DDP) is the study of computer graphic design for print and the web. Career paths chosen by students pursuing undergraduate studies in DDP commonly include graphic design, web design, animation and video production. Careers in the discipline that generally require graduate-level degrees include college teacher, creative director and art director. Even students who choose not to major in DDP find that coursework in the field can improve their ability to think critically, solve complex problems, improve their skills on the computer, research and analysis for design projects. College of the Desert's DDP curriculum includes course offerings that provide a general overview of the discipline, as well as specific courses in Photoshop, Illustrator, QuarkXPress, basic animation and basic web content. The College offers a Certificate of Achievement in DDP, an Associate of Arts degree, as well as courses leading to transfer. The certificate of achievement is designed to provide students with skills necessary for employment or advancement as graphic designers. Students earning the certificate may also choose to continue their study toward an associate, baccalaureate or advanced degree in the field. Past recipients of the COD Certificate of Achievement in DDP have obtained positions as graphic designers, art directors, and creative directors. Students earning an associate's degree in DDP may pursue (entry-level) positions as graphic designers or may choose to continue their study in the discipline toward a bachelor's or graduate degree. COD has transfer agreements with California State Universities in this discipline/program. However, transfer requirements at four-year colleges and universities vary from institution to institution; students should consult with a counselor for specific information regarding the transfer requirements of their preferred college or university.
