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Start Your Creative Career with the SUNY Ulster Graphic Design Program

Graphic Design students holding the bee brochures they designed

Are you a creative person? Do you dream of making money from your art or designs? If so, a degree in Graphic Design may be for you!

Perfect for traditional and adult students who are looking for more employment options or a career change, students can find themselves on a path to success when they start with the Advertising Design and Graphic Technology Program at SUNY Ulster, also known as the Real World Classroom.

The Real World Classroom is a unique opportunity for SUNY Ulster Graphic Design students. Each semester they are paired with local clients who are in need of design help. Recently, these classes have designed a brochure for the Ulster County Jewish Federation and created packaging for SOUL, a socially responsible coffee company supporting farmers in Rwanda. In addition to classroom work, students have the opportunity further their education in specific disciplines by participating in local internships.

Numerous graduates have transferred to four-year programs or gone directly on to employment within the fields of Print Media, Multimedia, Video, Web Design, and Illustration. Design careers combining graphic design and technology, including Video and 3D Printing, have become especially popular.

Students from a variety of backgrounds find a great fit in the Graphic Design program. SUNY Ulster student Sharon Wasko received her bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts in the past. She came to SUNY Ulster after learning about the Real World Classroom, as she wanted directly employable skills with real clients. Graphic Design alumna Leanna White has had an exciting career since her 2012 graduation, designing album covers, patrol car wraps, and advertisements featured in magazines right after graduation.

No matter what stage of life you’re currently in, you have to take the first step to begin your career if you want to make a living doing what you love. For artists and designers, the Graphic Design Real World Classroom can be the perfect place to start.

Allegra Condon
the authorAllegra Condon
Allegra is an Ulster County-based content specialist and writer. She graduated from SUNY Ulster in 2016.

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