Computer Graphics


Program Description


An Associate in Applied Science (AAS) degree in Computer Graphics provides students with skills in computer graphic design and training using the latest industry software. The program is designed to provide the underpinning graphics training needed for a wide variety of graphics professions including graphic designers, illustrators, desktop publishing specialists, production artists, multimedia specialists, digital photographers, computer artists, and web designers.

Graduates of this program will successfully complete the following learning outcomes:

  • Identify and demonstrate the processes used to create and modify digital artwork
  • Plan a project using the Design Stages with written, sketches, and final drawings
  • Manage files and folder organization, and file formats for the appropriate uses
  • Identify and discuss computer color modes: RGB, CMYK, Greyscale, and Bitmap
  • Understand basic elements effecting image size when generating a digital image
  • Utilize industry-standard software to implement artwork and layout design
  • Utilize skills in vector and raster graphics and identify best uses
  • Prepare for entry-level employment in the computer graphics field

Degree(s) / Certificates(s)


Title Local Bachelor's
Computer Graphics - A.A.S. Occupational Degree -

Career Outlook


Successful completion of this program may lead to a variety of employment opportunities, most of which require continued higher education at the university level. Below are examples of related occupations and annual mean wages in Arizona according to a May 2020 State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates Report from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Fine Artists, Including Painters, Sculptors, and Illustrators 
Create original artwork using any of a wide variety of media and techniques.
$47,050
Graphic Designers
Design or create graphics to meet specific commercial or promotional needs, such as packaging, displays, or logos. May use a variety of mediums to achieve artistic or decorative effects.  
$59,530
Web Developers
Develop and implement websites, web applications, application databases, and interactive web interfaces. Evaluate code to ensure that it is properly structured, meets industry standards, and is compatible with browsers and devices. Optimize website performance, scalability, and server-side code and processes. May develop website infrastructure and integrate websites with other computer applications.
$69,230
Digital Interface Designers 
Design digital user interfaces or websites. Develop and test layouts, interfaces, functionality, and navigation menus to ensure compatibility and usability across browsers or devices. May use web framework applications as well as client-side code and processes. May evaluate web design following web and accessibility standards, and may analyze web use metrics and optimize websites for marketability and search engine ranking. May design and test interfaces that facilitate the human-computer interaction and maximize the usability of digital devices, websites, and software with a focus on aesthetics and design. May create graphics used in websites and manage website content and links.
$69,230
Successful completion of this program may lead to employment in a variety of different occupations and industries. Check the above for additional information.

Contact Information


Department Contact(s)

Liberal Arts & Education


Hours of Operation
  • Normal Hours
  • Monday - Thursday: 7:00am - 5:00pm
Faculty/Staff Contact(s)
Name Title Phone Email
Rodney Abriol, DMA Professor of Music - Piano (928) 317-6019 rodney.abriol@azwestern.edu
William Blomquist, MFA Professor of Visual Arts-2D (928) 317-6060 william.blomquist@azwestern.edu
Julie Floss, MFA Professor of Visual Arts-2D, SYC (928) 314-9434 julie.floss@azwestern.edu
Deltrina Grimes, MM Professor of Music: Voice (928) 344-7574 deltrina.grimes@azwestern.edu
Brad Pease, MFA Professor of Computer Graphics and Visual Arts (928) 344-7707 brad.pease@azwestern.edu
Louis Pollard III, DMA Professor of Instrumental Music (928) 344-7573 Shawn.Pollard@azwestern.edu
Rebecca Shelby, MFA Professor of Visual Arts-3D (928) 344-7756 Rebecca.Shelby@azwestern.edu
Ann Wilkinson, MFA Professor of Theatre (928) 344-7592 ann.wilkinson@azwestern.edu