VSU's Department of Continuing Education offers new online programs

The Department of Continuing Education at Valdosta State University announces the addition of three new online certificate programs emphasizing graphic design, marketing and Web design. All courses for the program are offered online, to allow students greater flexibility and convenience.

The graphic design program covers the entire field of graphic design, including print media. The nine-course program explores design techniques, visual thinking, concept development, composition and typography, and takes approximately 12 to 18 months to complete.

The media marketing program helps students develop an understanding of how to evaluate, critique, buy, and create design, branding and advertising services to enhance their Web site. The nine-course program focuses on marketing and branding strategies for Web sites and takes approximately 12 to 18 months to complete.

The third course deals more intently with Web design, with a focus on multimedia. This comprehensive 18 to 24 month program provides students with the knowledge to build and launch Web sites, in addition to creating designs to allow the user to be an active player.

Each program is instructor-facilitated and students interact with the instructor via e-mail correspondence. The programs have been awarded accreditation by the Distance Education and Training Council. Students satisfactorily completing the requirements will be awarded a certificate bearing the Accredited Online Certification (AOC) seal as well as Continuing Education credits (CEUs) from VSU's Continuing Education.

Julie Halter, technology program coordinator, said that the Department of Continuing Education also offers approximately 125 online courses in the area of business and professional development, technology and computer applications, and personal enrichment.

"We have been offering the online courses through VSU Continuing Education for two years now, and have received excellent responses from our students, as to the content and flexibility of the courses," Halter said.

For more information, contact the Department of Continuing Education at (229) 245-6484 or www.valdosta.edu/conted.