Visual Communications

The Visual Communications program inspires you to be creative, think critically and communicate effectively. If you value lifelong intellectual and aesthetic growth, this program will open countless possibilities. Our goal is to build a community of creative designers, photographers, and content creators in Nashville and beyond.

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Associate of Applied Science

aas

The Associate of Applied Science program puts students in a creative environment with state-of-the-art technology to learn principles of visual communications, current imaging technology, business practices, and portfolio development. With concentrations in Graphic Design and Photography, students can focus on the skills needed to pursue a creative career.

Length

Two years

COSTS

About $9,490 total in tuition and fees.

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COURSE LIST

Catalog

After Nashville State

Transfer to a four-year institution or join the workforce. Ask our Career Services team for assistance!

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Campus Availability: The majority of Visual Communications courses are only offered on our White Bridge campus, however some may be available online. To check current course offerings check class schedule.

Ready to apply?

How to Apply

Visual communication looks different for everyone and your path should reflect what you are passionate about. In this program, you will choose between two focused tracks so you can build skills that match your creative goals.

Graphic Design

Let’s get you ready for a career in graphic design. You will create work for real clients and real audiences while building a portfolio that shows what you can do. Along the way, you will learn the tools and skills employers are looking for.

You will learn how to:

Design logos, branding, and marketing campaigns
Create for print, web, and social media
Use typography and color to communicate ideas
Develop creative briefs and visual concepts
Design packaging, merchandise, and digital content
Work with clients and manage projects
Understand freelancing, pricing, and promotion
Build a portfolio for graphic design jobs and internships

Photography

Turn your passion for photography into a professional creative career. You will develop both technical and creative skills while building a professional portfolio that reflects your style and career goals.

You will learn how to:

Create compelling portraits, product photography, and commercial imagery
Use studio and location lighting for professional photography
Develop traditional black and white film and print in a darkroom
Apply color theory and composition for strong visual storytelling
Use advanced digital photography and creative editing techniques
Shoot and edit video content for web and social media
Understand pricing, ethics, and business practices for photographers
Market your photography brand and services effectively

Award Winning Students

Our students are excellent but don’t just take our word for it. In 2023, nine students from our Visual Communications program took home twelve prestigious student American Advertising Awards (ADDYs) in eight categories.

Emily Naff

Associate Professor of Photography and Visual Communications

The creative talent and dedication of Nashville State students is a continuous source of inspiration for me and the other faculty. It is a privilege to work with our students as they develop their creative vision and hone their skills to prepare for professional and creative careers.

Professors like Emily Naff are here to help you go above and beyond your career goals to achieve excellence and gain national recognition. Learn from Naff and others like her by enrolling in the Visual Communications degree program.

Why Choose us for Graphic Design?

Finish your degree in a 2-year accelerated program so you can start your career sooner
Get access to financial aid, scholarships, and support to help you stay focused on your goals
Learn in a professional studio environment that feels like a real creative workplace
Work on large-format Apple displays with the latest industry tools and software
Use professional printing equipment, including large-format printers and other studio production printers
Get hands-on with Risograph printing, silkscreen, and analog design techniques
Access photo studios, darkrooms, and traditional film development and printing processes
Create using advanced tools like laser cutting (Glowforge) for packaging and product design
Learn from a program built by a 30+ year design professional
Be taught by working designers and photographers who bring real-world experience into the classroom

Why Choose Us for Photography?

Earn a photography degree with full-time or part-time enrollment options —including the ability to start with a Photography Technical Certificate and continue seamlessly into the Visual Communications A.A.S. degree
Get access to financial aid, scholarships, and student support services that help you stay on track
Learn in professional photo studios designed to reflect real-world photography and media environments
Use industry-standard digital cameras, lighting equipment, and photo editing software
Take advantage of an equipment checkout system that allows students to check out studio lights, lenses, and other professional gear
Gain hands-on experience in studio, location, and commercial photography
Photograph on location throughout Nashville and Middle Tennessee
Access fully equipped photo studios, darkrooms, and traditional film development and printing processes
Explore both digital and analog photography, including experimental and alternative techniques
Work on real-world creative projects connected to the Nashville and Middle TN creative community
Learn from working photographers with experience in commercial, portrait, and freelance photography
Graduate with a professional photography portfolio and website ready for jobs, freelance work, or creative transfer opportunities