Ferris State University

What you'll study

This degree blends technical, creative and managerial topics to prepare you for careers across print and digital media. Core study areas typically include digital imaging and layout, colour theory and colour management, typography, prepress and imaging workflows, offset and digital press operations, finishing and bindery technologies, substrate and packaging fundamentals, and proofing and quality control. You will also study software-driven design and production tools (such as industry-standard page layout, raster and vector applications), web and digital publishing fundamentals, production estimating and scheduling, and business topics such as project management and marketing for communications firms.

Programme structure emphasises applied learning: students spend significant time in labs and production facilities, completing hands-on projects that simulate real-world workflows. Many programmes include a capstone project or practicum in which students plan and execute a complete production job, incorporating design, prepress, press management and final finishing. Elective options often allow further focus on areas such as packaging design, flexible packaging, label production, commercial printing management or digital marketing.

Entry requirements

Admission typically requires a secondary school qualification equivalent to a high school diploma. Applicants should demonstrate competence in English and mathematics at a level appropriate for university study. A portfolio of design or production-related work is usually encouraged for applicants who wish to emphasise creative skills, although the programme also welcomes students with strong technical or vocational backgrounds in printing and media.

International applicants are generally expected to meet the university’s standard English language requirements. Mature applicants with relevant industry experience or completed certificates in printing, graphic technology or multimedia may be considered on the basis of prior learning and experience.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a wide range of roles across print, packaging, publishing and digital media. Typical job titles include production or press operator, prepress technician, graphic designer, colour management specialist, packaging technologist, print production manager, estimating and workflow coordinator, and sales or technical support representative for print and media suppliers.

Because the programme combines technical production knowledge with business and digital skills, alumni also move into supervisory and management positions, operations and plant management, or roles in related areas such as digital publishing, web production and marketing communications. Many graduates find opportunities with commercial printers, packaging companies, in-house print centres, label manufacturers, marketing agencies and suppliers of print equipment and materials.

Why study at Ferris State University

Ferris State is known for its hands-on, industry-aligned teaching approach. Students benefit from dedicated labs and production equipment that mirror contemporary shop environments, allowing practical development of skills in imaging, press operation and finishing. The university emphasises applied projects and workplace readiness; close ties with industry provide opportunities for internships, site visits and practical collaborations that help bridge classroom learning and professional practice.

Faculty in the programme typically bring a mix of academic and industry experience, and support services such as career advice and employer engagement help students prepare for job placement. The programme’s focus on both traditional print techniques and modern digital workflows gives graduates a versatile foundation for a changing communications and production landscape.