Pittsburg State University

What you'll study

This programme blends art and technology to teach how ideas move from concept to finished product across print and digital platforms. Core study areas include visual communications and design principles, typography, colour theory and digital imaging; technical production such as prepress workflows, press operations, finishing and binding; and emerging digital processes like variable data printing, web-to-print systems and digital fabrication.

• Design and visual communication: courses in layout, typography, branding, user-centred design and digital illustration.
• Production technologies: instruction on offset and digital press operations, screening, plate making, binding and finishing techniques.
• Prepress and workflow: colour management, file preparation, RIPs, preflight procedures and quality control.
• Digital media and web technologies: web design basics, production for screen, PDF workflows and cross-media publishing.
• Management and business: production planning, estimating, project management, sales and customer relations for print/packaging environments.
• Practicum and capstone: supervised internships, industry projects and a final capstone that integrates design, production and business elements.

Students spend substantial time in lab and shop environments using industry-standard equipment, and projects emphasise real-world problem solving, sustainability in materials and processes, and emerging technologies in packaging and digital print.

Entry requirements

Applicants typically need a high-school diploma or equivalent. Admissions consider academic record, coursework relevant to art, design, technology or business, and a demonstrated interest in graphic communications. A portfolio of design or production work is recommended but not always required — it can strengthen an application by showing practical skills and creative potential.

International applicants must meet the university's English language proficiency requirements and provide credential evaluations as requested. Non-traditional applicants with relevant work experience or technical certificates are also considered.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a range of roles across the print, packaging and digital communication sectors. Typical job titles include prepress technician, press operator, digital print specialist, bindery and finishing technician, packaging production coordinator, production manager, sales representative for print/packaging suppliers, and web-to-print or production workflow specialist.

Because the curriculum combines design, technical production and business skills, alumni also move into roles in operations management, quality assurance, account management in creative services, and entrepreneurship for small print or design firms. Internship placements and industry projects help students build professional contacts and practical experience that employers value.

Why study at Pittsburg State University

Pittsburg State offers a hands-on approach with dedicated facilities and instruction focused on the practical realities of graphic communications. Students work in labs equipped with industry-standard presses, prepress stations, bindery and finishing equipment and colour-management tools, enabling direct experience with the processes used in professional environments.

The programme emphasises applied learning through internships, live client projects and faculty mentorship, connecting students with regional and national industry partners. Small class sizes and a campus culture focused on career preparation help students develop both the technical competence and the professional skills—such as estimating, project management and client communication—needed for employment in a changing communications landscape.