Visual communications classes include topics such as art history, typography, and 3-D drawing. Students also learn about basic art skills, such as life drawing and illustration. Institutions that offer a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Visual Communication may feature special courses that prepare students to perform graphic arts and design work in the advertising or art industry. Courses that make up a Bachelor of Science degree in Visual Communication, though, typically focus on helping students learn how to apply their design skills to the business world. Advanced visual communication degree programs may carry certain prerequisites such as completing the introduction to visual communications class.
Students who complete a visual communications training program at an accredited school can usually find work relatively quickly. Demand for these types of jobs continues to be high, particularly for students who are interested in working in a virtual environment. An accredited college degree gives a graduating student an edge in competing for an open visual communications position. Careers that use visual communications include graphic artistry and art directing. A graphic artist uses visual communications skills to create compelling images and illustrations for both print and online media, while an art director makes use of these same skills to provide direction for artists and creators.