Communications & Media Technologies (AAS)

The Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Brand Communications is a two-year program designed to provide students with a strong foundation in the evolving fields of branding, marketing, advertising, user experience (UX), and media communications. This degree focuses on hands-on training in industry-relevant tools, creative strategy, and technical skills, preparing students for immediate entry into brand-focused careers or seamless transition into a bachelor’s degree.

* This degree program cannot be offered to 100% online students in the following states:
Alabama, Arkansas, DC, Georgia, Indiana, Kansas, Maryland, Minnesota, Mississippi, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Puerto Rico, Rhode Island, Virginia, Wisconsin. Also, these new programs are not currently approved for Veteran Education or Military Tuition Assistance Benefits at this time.

BA MA

Associate of Applied Science (AAS) Degree – Brand Communications Degree

Available Online & On Campus

Core Classes

ADV 207 Creative Strategy Core/3

ADV 341 Midpoint Portfolio Core/3

COM 102 Visual Storytelling: Editing Fundamentals for Short-Form Video Content Core/3

COM 295 Media Entrepreneurship: Brand You Core/3

FND 149 Introduction to Design Thinking Core/3

GR 102 Design Technologies Core/3

GR 122 Typography 1: Hierarchy and Form Core/3

GR 150 Introduction to Visual Communication Core/3

GR 327 Graphic Design 2: Integrating Principles Core/3

IXD 105 Design Technology: Visual Design Tools Core/3

IXD 282 Midpoint Portfolio Core/3

PH 103 Digital Photography for Artists Core/3

Unit Requirements

Major Coursework	Units
Core	24
Sophomore Portfolio	3
Major	18
Liberal Arts	15
Total	60

Degree Requirements

AAS BRAND COMMUNICATIONS DEGREE REQUIREMENTS

Minimum grade of C- in all major coursework.
Minimum 2.0 GPA and the following general education requirements:
1 Art Historical Awareness course
1 Creative Ideation course
1 Quantitative Literacy course
1 Employment Communications and Practices course

After above general education requirements are met, take Liberal Arts electives as needed to fulfill the Liberal Arts unit requirement.

Additional Information

Liberal Arts

Program Learning Outcomes

Undergraduate students will meet the following student performance criteria:

Production & Technical Skills

Utilize industry-standard tools (Adobe Suite, Figma, AI-powered platforms) for branding and media design.
Implement AI and automation tools in digital content creation and marketing strategies.

Design & Visual Storytelling

Apply graphic design principles to create brand communications.
Use storytelling techniques to develop brand identity across multiple media platforms.

Strategic Communication & Branding

Develop brand messaging strategies that align with target audience needs.
Create content strategies for social, digital, and interactive platforms.

Advertising & Digital Marketing

Use data-driven insights to design advertising campaigns.
Develop creative briefs leveraging traditional and emerging media.

UX/UI & Interactive Design

Apply UX/UI principles to digital brand interactions.
Conduct user research and usability testing for brand-driven digital experiences.

AI in Branding & Marketing

Utilize AI tools for automation in branding, marketing, and creative production.
Understand ethical implications of AI in digital marketing and brand communications.

Academy of Art University Learning Outcomes
Graduates of the Academy of Art University will demonstrate the ability to:

Produce a body of work suitable for seeking professional opportunities in their chosen field of art and design.
Solve creative problems within their field of art and design, including research and synthesis of technical, aesthetic, and conceptual
Communicate their ideas professionally and connect with their intended audience using visual, oral, and written presentation skillsrelevant to their field.
Execute technical, aesthetic, and conceptual decisions based on an understanding of art and design principles.
Use professional terminology to evaluate their work and work in the field.
Recognize the influence of major cultural and aesthetic trends, both historical and contemporary, on art and design products.
Learn the professional skills and behaviors necessary to compete in the global marketplace for art and design
Engage with a variety of communities beyond the classroom through internship opportunities, study abroad programs, athletics, student interest clubs, and participation in collaborative, civic, and pro bono projects.

*Semester plans are subject to change at any time. Semester breakdowns displayed are suggested and additional options are available to help customize your educational experience. Speak to an admissions or student services representative for more information. Please see our catalog for more details at: https://catalog.academyart.edu