Academic Program
BS Computer Graphics Technology (CGT): Technical Design (TEDS) and User Experience (UEXP)
Computer Graphics Technology is preparing students for the changing world of digital and web-based applications. Technical design and user experience design are influencing our society at an exponential rate. In the Technical Design concentration, students will be able to help companies and organizations visualize data, design quality products, and create efficient architectural structures. The concentration in User Experience represents the future in user interface design, website development, video game design, and animation. Students will emerge from the program able to help companies and organizations work with their customers and users effectively. Students’ ability to plan and manage computer graphics technology is critical to their performance on the job. The development of video games, animations, websites, publications, architectural design, product design, and the technology to carry these out are the focuses of Computer Graphics Technology. Students will learn to create computer-generated designs to fulfill users’ needs. They will work collaboratively on a variety of highly skilled design projects in the program. Students will incorporate design characteristics, such as ease of use, eye-appealing graphics, functionality, human-computer interaction (HCI), and usability to meet or exceed users’ satisfaction with design products. Creating optimal user experiences with design products is the focus of Computer Graphics Technology. Please refer to the Undergraduate Bulletin to review the curriculum guide and course descriptions.
The Bachelor of Science degree in Graphic Communication Systems is accredited by The Association of Technology, Management and Applied Engineering.
BS in GCS Curriculum Guide. Note: The students will not be accepted in this major from Fall 2021.
BS in CGT-TEDS Curriculum Guide. Note: It will be offered from Fall 2021.
BS in CGT-UEXP Curriculum Guide. Note: It will be offered from Fall 2021.
Current Students Staying in the Old GCS Program
1. I was admitted to the GCS degree program and do not intend to transfer to the new degree program. How will this affect my progress toward graduation?
Course offerings from the GCS curriculum will continue through Spring, 2023. Staying on track with your course requirements will ensure that you graduate by or before that date.
2. How long will courses in the GCS program be offered?
Course offerings from the GCS program will continue through Spring, 2023. Students should meet with their academic advisor to fill out the GCS curriculum guide which details which courses they will take in their remaining semesters.
3. If I make an unsatisfactory grade in a required course and the course will not be offered again, what provisions will be made for me?
The student should see the advisor to arrive at a reasonable substitution.
4. There may be cases, in unusual circumstances, in which a student is unable to finish his/her degree in the allowable time frame. How will these situations be handled?
A student finding himself/herself in this situation should consult with departmental personnel to ascertain if there is any manner in which the degree program can be completed. The University, however, is under no obligation to ensure the program can be completed after the allowable period.
Current Students Switching to the New Computer Graphics Technology Program
1. If I decide to change to the new CGT curriculum, will I be required to complete the prerequisites of the new program?
Yes, the prerequisites must be completed. Please refer to the Course Catalog.
2. If I change to the new CGT curriculum, will I need to declare a concentration?
Yes. Students are required to select either Technical Design or User Experience as a concentration. Please check the department website for a copy of the two curriculum guides.
3. What is the deadline for making a decision about a possible switch to the new CGT curriculum?
The deadline for students currently enrolled is November 4, 2021. This means that the student should schedule a meeting with the advisor to complete proper paperwork. Late requests are not accepted.
4. What are the requirements for transferring to the new CGT curriculum?
Fill out the ‘Declaration of Intent Form,’ ‘Change of Major Form,’ and ‘CGT Curriculum Guide’ of Technical Design or User Experience with the advisor. Please check with your advisor or the department chair for the transferring materials. Students who have 30 or more completed credit hours by Fall, 2021 cannot transfer to the new curriculum. Please seek advice from your advisor or department chair before making the decision. Also, ask for the procedure and necessary forms if you decide to change your major.
- Technical Design
- User Experience
- The program is the only program in this area that focuses on both design and technology management.
- Graduates are employed by a variety of companies, organizations and governmental agencies.
- Students learn about both design and graphics technology.
- The department has an active student organization.
- User Experience Designer
- User Interface Designer
- VR Developer
- Web Designer
- Video Game Developer
- Animator
- 3D Model Creator
- Multimedia Creator
- Architectural Designer
- Product Designer
- Package Designer
- Building Information Modeling Specialist
- Graphic Designer
- Image Editor
- Digital Photographer/Videographer
Approximate Starting Average Salary: $50,000
