Idaho State University

What you'll study

The programme blends technical and creative study across print and digital media. You will learn core topics such as prepress workflow, press operation and maintenance, colour management, digital imaging, typography and page layout, and packaging fundamentals. Coursework emphasises industry-standard software and hardware, including RIPs, press consoles, digital proofing systems and web-to-print technologies.

Typical modules and experiences include:

• Introduction to Graphic Communications – foundations of print processes, terminology and materials.
• Prepress and Workflow – file preparation, raster image processing, trapping and workflow automation.
• Pressroom Operations – offset, digital and large-format press operation, maintenance and quality control.
• Colour Science and Management – colour theory, profiling, calibration and print quality assessment.
• Digital Imaging and Design – raster/vector editing, typography, page layout and user experience for digital platforms.
• Packaging Fundamentals – substrate choices, dielines, structural design and production considerations.
• Web-to-Print and E-commerce – online ordering systems, variable data printing and workflow integration.
• Capstone/Internship – project or placement with an industry partner to apply technical and managerial skills in a real-world setting.

Entry requirements

Applicants should have a recognised secondary school diploma or equivalent. Admissions typically consider academic transcripts and evidence of practical interest in graphic communication or a related creative/technical field. A portfolio of design, photography or print-related work is strongly recommended to demonstrate aptitude.

Other common expectations include satisfactory completion of foundational mathematics and English courses at high-school level, and meeting university-wide admissions standards for international applicants (such as English language proficiency). Prospective students transferring from community colleges or technical programmes may apply with transcripts showing relevant coursework.

Career prospects

Graduates leave equipped for technical and supervisory roles across print, packaging and digital production environments. Typical job titles include prepress technician, press operator, production manager, colour specialist, packaging production coordinator, digital production specialist and web-to-print coordinator. Graduates also find opportunities in sales and technical support for equipment and materials suppliers, and may pursue creative or managerial pathways in design studios, commercial printers, packaging converters or in-house production departments.

The programme’s hands-on focus and industry connections support entry into both local and national employers; many students build careers that combine technical expertise with production planning, quality assurance or account management.

Why study at Idaho State University

Idaho State University offers this programme within a practical, lab-focused environment where students work on industry-standard presses and digital production equipment. Small class sizes allow personalised instruction from faculty who bring industry experience and applied research to teaching. The curriculum emphasises current workplace workflows and integrates internships and capstone projects to build real-world skills.

Located in Pocatello, the university provides access to regional printing and packaging businesses for placements and networking, while campus services support career development, portfolio preparation and internship searches. For students seeking a technically rigorous, career-oriented degree in graphic communications, Idaho State University blends hands-on training with opportunities to specialise across print and digital channels.