Graphic Design – Transfer Options

Articulation Agreements

Articulation Agreements are formal agreements between two or more Colleges and Universities documenting the transfer policies for a specific academic program or degree. Jackson College has articulation agreements in accounting with the following colleges and universities.

  • Graphic Design – Eastern Michigan University

    Graphic Design Associate in Applied Science degree at Jackson College to a Bachelor of Science in Communication Technology at Eastern Michigan University.

    JC students who complete an associate degree, complete the courses outlined in the guidesheet with a grade of a “C” or better, and satisfy EMU’s admissions requirements will be accepted into the articulation agreement.

    Under this agreement, EMU will waive the 60-hour rule and require that a minimum of 41 credits must be completed in courses offered by EMU. This allows students to complete more than 60 credit hours at JC, and have those hours applied toward their bachelor’s degree.

    Students must apply and be admitted to EMU.

    Articulation Effective Dates: September 1, 2019 through August 31, 2022


    General Education/MTA Requirements

    Course # Course Name Credits Prerequisites Notes
    ART 112 Art History: Renaissance to Present 3 ENG 085*

    This course is a survey of art history and aesthetics covering art from the Renaissance through the 20th century.

    BIO 158 Environmental Science 4 ENG 085*, ENG 090* and MAT 020* or higher

    This course serves as a foundation for environmental science majors. It is also suitable for non-majors interested in environmental topics. Emphasis is placed on laboratory experience, environmental surveys, and class discussions to reinforce scientific principles. Environmental case studies are covered in detail. In laboratory, the students will learn how to analyze quantitative environmental data through application. This class has a laboratory component.

    COM 240 Interpersonal Communication 3 ENG 085, ENG 091

    (FORMERLY SPH 240) Students will learn to improve communication in one-on-one and small group situations. In this course, students will examine basic verbal and non-verbal elements affecting communication between individuals in family, peer group and work contexts. Specific units of discussion include intrapersonal perspective, conflict resolution, self-disclosure, message generation, intercultural messages and non-verbal communication.

    ENG 131 Writing Experience I 3 ENG 085 and ENG 091

    This is an intensive writing course. Narrative and descriptive modes are stressed. Basic research strategies are introduced. An end-of-the-semester portfolio is required.

    ENG 210 Introduction to Film 3 ENG 085* and ENG 131

    Students are introduced to film as a visual art and to basic film terms and techniques, such as composition, movement, editing and sound. Readings in film history, genre, theory and criticism. Includes JC Winter Film Series.

    GEL 109 Earth Science 4 ENG 085*, ENG 090* and MAT 033* or higher

    This course serves as a foundation for the Earth sciences and Earth science majors. Emphasis is placed on laboratory experience and class discussions to reinforce scientific principles. Earth science case studies are covered in detail. In laboratory, the students will learn how to apply basic scientific principles through active learning and application. This course has a laboratory component.

    MAT 130 Quantitative Reasoning 4 MAT 030

    Quantitative Reasoning develops student skills in analyzing, synthesizing and communicating quantitative information. Cultivates algebraic reasoning and modeling skills through a quantitative literacy lens. Emphasizes critical thinking and the use of multiple strategies in applied contexts. Topics include proportional and statistical reasoning, probability, and evaluation of bias and validity.

    PLS 141 American National Government 3 ENG 085, ENG 091

    Develops a systematic framework for the interpretation of political activity in the United States. Numerous models explain the theoretical foundations of government and the decision-making process.

    PSY 140 Introduction to Psychology 4 ENG 085* and ENG 090*

    Overview of the field of psychology, including learning, development, emotion, motivation, personality, abnormal behavior and psychotherapy.

    Related Requirements:

    Course # Course Name Credits Prerequisites Notes
    ART 101 Two-Dimensional Design 3

    Students will learn the principles and elements of 2-D design and practice their application in a variety of hands-on studio projects. Critical thinking skills such as problem solving, understanding the creative process (from idea to finished product), and addressing visual and conceptual themes are essential parts of the course. These skills are reflected in studio projects.

    Graphic Design Requirements:

    Course # Course Name Credits Prerequisites Notes
    CIS 126 Digital Design Fundamentals 3 MAT 131, MAT 133 or MAT 135 (MAT 135 preferred), and ENT 085*, and ENG 090*

    Students explore fundamental methods used to compose persuasive digital layouts. Strategies in aesthetics, personal methodology, industry-standard practices are performed with the intent to deliver a clear, unique and proficient message.

    CIS 127 Introduction to Creative Software 3 ENG 085*

    Understanding the full potential and limitations of software is essential to the success of graphic design students. Introduction to Creative Software is an entry-level course that takes the student who is new to graphic design and creative careers into this dynamic industry and lets them explore common software used.

    CIS 128 Typography & Layout 3 CIS 095*

    Learn principles of type identification, selection and use in the professional rendering of comprehensive layouts. Utilization of tools, materials, and techniques of rendering emphasized.

    CIS 132 Graphic Illustration (Adobe® Illustrator®) 3 CIS 095*

    Learn how to create professional looking illustrations using Adobe® Illustrator®. This course introduces student to techniques used by professional designers and illustrators.

    CIS 134 Graphic Imaging (Adobe® PhotoShop®) 3

    Learn the intricacies of scanning and editing images for producing practical and expressive images on a computer using Adobe® PhotoShop® software.

    CIS 136 Integrated Design I (Adobe® InDesign®) 3 CIS 095*

    Learn the basics of desktop publishing using Adobe® InDesign®. Students use computers and laser printers to create professional-looking publications that incorporate illustrations and bitmap graphics.

    CIS 137 Digital Photography I 3

    (SAME AS ART 137) This course demonstrates how to use and handle a digital camera, capturing the image, editing and processing images for output — such as printing, or preparing images for upload to the internet for websites or social media platforms. The class will include techniques and instruction on layout, composition, rules of design, history of photography, and Photoshop® or image altering program applications.

    CIS 147 Web Page Design I (Dreamweaver®) 1

    (FORMERLY CIS 045) This course covers the fundamental concepts of web page design using Adobe® Dreamweaver®. This course will instruct students in all the basic functions of Adobe® Dreamweaver® in regards to understanding how to get a website up and running.

    CIS 230 Practicum in Printing 4 CIS 101

    Students receive hands-on introduction on how screen and offset printing works. The class will be project-oriented.

    CIS 234 Graphic Technology Applications 3 CIS 128 and CIS 132

    Students prepare for career opportunities by defining areas of employment and identifying prospective employers in the graphic design profession. Students also create a professional portfolio to be used for employment interview purposes.

    CIS 245 Internship/Externship 3 Instructor Permission Required.

    This course will provide comprehensive work experience to assist students in the development of essential skills to be successful in a chosen career. The position must be obtained by the student and approved by the department before registration is permitted.

    EMU’s Graphic Design Requirements/Electives that may be taken @ JC or EMU:

    Course # Course Name Credits Prerequisites Notes
    ACC 216 Financial Accounting Concepts 4 CIS 095, ENG 085, ENG 091, MAT 020 or higher

    This course is designed for the non-accounting supervisor/manager who must have an understanding of financial and managerial accounting as it is used in decision making. Learn about annual reports, financial statements, balance sheet accounts and accounting transactions. Focus on how accounting information is used in decision making and not on the mechanics behind that accounting information. This is an introductory accounting course required for some BUA, CIS and HOC programs. Students should consider their academic program and select either ACC 216 or ACC 231 for their introductory accounting course.

    BUA 231 Advertising, Promotion & Public Relations 3 CIS 095*, ENG 085* and ENG 090*

    Students study the principles and practices of numerous promotional tools used in marketing communications. Topics include creation of advertising, media strategies, message appeals, plus the use of specialty advertising, sales promotion and public relations to help sell goods, services and ideas.

    CIS 131 Methods in 3-D Prototyping 1 ENG 085*

    Students propose concept development and build three-dimensional product mock-ups. Dexterity, craftsmanship and implementation using innovative logistical methods are practiced and delivered.

    CIS 133 Brand Identity Design 1 ENG 085*

    This course introduces students to common contemporary practices of corporate brand identity design. Review and discussion of brand-building concepts are researched and analyzed.

    CIS 138 Image Editing Applications 1 ENG 085*

    Students will be exposed to current applications and technical aspects of image manipulation in a variety of contexts. They will become familiar with applications through research, demonstrations, and structured exercises as well as open-ended assignments.

    CIS 173 Animation I 4 CIS 171

    This core class of animation introduces students to moving and animation 3D characters. Using industry standard software, students will translate muscle and bone structure. Various character rigs will be introduced so that the 3D characters will move in both forward and inverse kinematics.

    COM 231 Communication Fundamentals 3 ENG 085, ENG 091

    Students will learn the basic principles of speech communication including speech development and delivery, interpersonal message, non-verbal messages, and small group dynamics. The course is designed to prepare students to be effective communicators in a diverse global society. Student speeches will be evaluated for effectiveness.

    PSY 144 Introduction to Probability & Statistics 4 MAT 033* or MAT 131 or higher

    (SAME AS MAT 133 AND CIS 203) This course is an introduction to experimental design, data representation, basic descriptive statistics, probability theorems, frequency distributions and functions, binomial and normal probability distributions and functions, probability density functions, hypothesis testing, statistical inference, Chi-square analysis, linear regression, correlation and application of the above in making informed, data driven decisions in real-world contexts. Both graphing calculators and computer-based statistical software (Microsoft® Excel®) will be used. If the prerequisite is more than two years old, then the mathematics department recommends the course placement exam be taken or the prerequisite be retaken to ensure the success of the student.

    ACC 216, CIS 173, COM 231, COM 240, CIS 134, CIS 136, CIS 234, PSY 144 required for EMU’s BS in Communication Technology program. If not transferred, must be completed at EMU.

    Articulation Agreement Guide: AAS in Graphic Design at JC to BS in Communication Technology