Graphic Arts/Printing Technology

The Program

Graphic Arts/Printing technicians operate computers that utilize desktop publishing software that is designed to prepare words and graphics for visual presentation. In the complex field of electronic imaging students also utilize scanners and imagesetters.

Photography plays an important role in graphic arts. Students are involved in the reproduction of the common photographs, photographic film negatives and positives, and the preparation of finished material.

Offset press operators ensure that the type, the photographs and illustrations are reproduced correctly, that the ink is applied to specific areas of the page, and that the image is positioned properly. They may work on web-fed or sheet-fed presses, on large and small machines.

A final phase of printing technology is binding operations — the cutting, folding, hole punching, fastening operations that complete the final product. Items that may become the final product are books, magazines, pamphlets, business forms, and advertising literature.

Helpful High School Courses

Mathematics, English, Drafting, Printing, Machine Shop

Graduation Diploma

Advanced Technical Certificate Electronic Imaging Offset Press Associate of Applied Science degree Graphic Communication

Program Information (.pdf)

Program begins in August and January
Program length is 3 to 4 1/2 semesters
Admits 15 students each year
Typical classroom hours are from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., 5 days per week
Summer Session - encouraged

Books, Tools, Supplies

Estimate (entire program) - $ 269

Registration Fees

Fees apply to the current Idaho State University fee schedule which includes mandatory student health insurance.

Paying for College

You may apply for financial aid, scholarships, grants, and loans to help finance your college education. When you pay registration fees, you are a student of Idaho State University with the privileges and responsibilities of a college student.

Entrance Information

Admission requirements:
Application for Admission
Application fee
High school transcript or GED
COMPASS Placement Test or ACT scores
Typing test (25 nwpm)

Register early - admission is based on space availability.

Job Opportunities

80% of students reporting are employed or continuing their education.

All AAS degrees will articulate into the Bachelor of Applied Technology.