Visual Communication Technology
Visual Communication Technology is an innovative program for students who are interested in creative & technical problem-solving.
VCT majors use print, photography, video, and interactive multimedia as problem-solving tools in a variety of work settings. With solid preparation and study in each of these areas, the major is complemented by a core of business and liberal arts classes, which differentiate BGSU’s program from most others of its kind. The major also offers a combination of theory and hands-on practice, including the opportunity to work with personable faculty who are committed to ensuring each student's success.
Photography. Print. Video. Web. Look no further than your browser bookmarks to see how these media work together to deliver compelling messages to all kinds of people in all kinds of places. BGSU’s Visual Communication Technology major is a cross-media program. That means our students learn to use the primary visual media technology in a way that emphasizes both their uniqueness and their dependence on one another.
In VCT, your learning is not limited to the classroom. We offer a combination of classroom-based theory and hands-on practice in up-to-date labs, plus the opportunity to work with faculty who have varied experiences to share. Our cooperative education program lets you apply your learning in a real-world setting. VCT majors complete three cooperative education work experiences as part of their degree, providing the equivalent of one full year of work experience. These semester-long, paid co-ops help our students earn money while developing their professional skills. Many students secure their first permanent job with one of their co-op employers.
Amy Layman Buskirk, VCT Alumna
A prestigious alumna of VCT, Amy Layman Buskirk, talks about her experience with the VCT program when it first started out. She is a cross-media, problem sover. She now works as a Vice President, Client Solutions at Freeman Inc in Seattle WA.
Program Requirements
PLACEHOLDERMost Ohio regionally accredited, two-year community colleges offer transferable associate degrees for the quality systems major. There is no limit to the number of hours you can transfer to BGSU. The Quality Systems program requires 124 hours of the appropriate coursework to graduate. A minimum of 30 credit hours must be taken from BGSU and 40 credit hours of 3000/4000 level courses are required.
Courses Requirements for B.S. in Technology - Visual Communication Technology
VCT 1030 Intro to VCT
This course provides an introduction to visual communication theory and processes. Students are exposed to multi-media development, video production, photography, and printing techniques as they relate to solving communication problems.
VCT 1040 Problem Solving for Visual Media
Overview of the visual problem solving process and how it applies to the diverse formats used in visual communication technology. Focus is on problem solving that stimulates visual thinking. Includes visual problem solving analysis, freehand sketching and the application of design technology, using computer based vector and raster solutions.
VCT 2040 Concepts of Visual Communication
Advanced visual communication concepts including problem solving, ideation, creative process, design technology, project management, client and industry research, proposal preparation, cost estimating/analysis, and professional communication systems.
VCT 2080 Intro to Print Media
Major printing processes; concentrations in image design technology, digital image assembly, image carrier preparation and image transfer. All new print media will be explored.
VCT 2660 Intro to Interactive Media
Introduction to basic interactive media concepts and techniques. Emphasis on basic design technology and production of effective media projects with a focus on network deployment.
VCT 2680 Video I
Basic principles of single-camera video and audio production theory, process, and techniques. This course provides students with hands-on experience in planning, shooting, and editing video presentations. Students are required to provide their own video camera.
VCT 2820 Photography I
Basic photographic and digital editing techniques. This course provides an introduction to camera handling, lighting exposure, and composition. Experiences include creating digital image files, digital editing and output techniques.
VCT 3080 Fundamentals of Imaging Technology
Image/art preparation techniques for various publishing applications including print, CD ROM and other computer media. Digital imaging fundamentals of computer systems, type, graphic images and color.
VCT 4670 VCT Synthesis
Techniques of visual communication problem solving and project management: including project coordination, scheduling, specification analysis, scheduling, cost/estimating aesthetic and technical qualities of client projects.
Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of the baccalaureate degree, students in the Visual Communication Technology major are expected to:
- Demonstrate critical-thinking skills as they relate to solving visual technology problems;
- Conceptualize and implement a visual technology solution in several media modes;
- Demonstrate operational level skill ability in each of the visual media areas of VCT;
- Research and produce an organized written rationale for using a specific medium to solve a specific visual technology problem;
- Apply knowledge of industrial applications to visual communication related technologies.
Accreditation and/or Program/Cluster Review
Bowling Green State University [BGSU] is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. BGSU has been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission since 01/01/1916. The most recent reaffirmation of accreditation was received in 2012 - 2013. Questions should be directed to the Office of Institutional Effectiveness.
The Visual Communication Technology program is accredited by the Association of Technology, Management, and Applied Engineering (ATMAE) and is in good standing. For more information, click here.
Professional Licensure (If applicable)
Bowling Green State University programs leading to licensure, certification and/or endorsement, whether delivered online, face-to-face or in a blended format, satisfy the academic requirements for those credentials set forth by the State of Ohio.
Requirements for licensure, certification and/or endorsement eligibility vary greatly from one profession to another and from state to state. The Visual Communication Technology program does not lead to professional licensure.
Gainful Employment (If applicable)
Under the Higher Education Act Title IV disclosure requirements, an institution must provide current and prospective students with information about each of its programs that prepares students for gainful employment in a recognized occupation.
The Visual Communication Technology program is not a recognized occupation that requires a Gainful Employment disclosure.