Curriculum

The Associate in Applied Science degree is awarded for completion of 60 credits of coursework. Students must maintain a 2.0 cumulative grade point average and fulfill all program requirements in a timely manner.

Students may transfer undergraduate credits from other programs or institutions. Depending on the number of transfer credits you bring to your AAS program, you can complete your studies in three to four semesters (see schedules below). Most students finish the program in about three semesters. Some students are eligible to enroll for part-time study. For more information, please contact the Admission Office. 

The first semester builds on your life experience and academic ability, providing a rigorous foundation in communication design with an intense focus on typography and interaction. In the Core Typography course, you develop a critical understanding of type as a reflection of content and context. You learn how to use reading/writing systems and visual form to communicate strategically and you will understand how to evaluate the implications of your aesthetic decisions. The Core Interaction course investigates structures and behaviors of interactive systems to better understand the user, their experience and how designers contribute to the conceptualizing and building of digital products. 

In the following semesters, you apply these foundational skills to advanced cross-media explorations of editorial design, interaction design, branding, Web/mobile product design, type design, motion graphics, advertising design, and information design.

As a New School student, you also have the opportunity to take electives in related fields like psychology, philosophy, and fashion design, in which you can apply your communication design skills  to develop the range of skills required in the future workplace.

To view degree requirements from prior years, visit the Academic Catalogs archive. For a complete listing of courses and course descriptions, visit the university course catalog.

Class Scheduling 

Classes are generally scheduled throughout the day Monday through Friday. Depending on class schedules, which can vary by semester, students may be required to take courses that are offered only at limited times.