GRD 101
HISTORY OF GRAPHIC DESIGN.
A survey of the history of graphic design in the twentieth century. Various movements are reviewed and related to contemporary graphic design. The relevance of historical graphic design to today’s designers and the societal and political implications of design are explored.

GRD 110
GRAPHIC DESIGN I.
Emphasis is placed on creative problem solving and exploring the fundamental principles, tools and elements of graphic design. Students learn how to conceptualize, critique, present and execute basic visual communication through a variety of relevant exercises and projects.

GRD 121
TYPOGRAPHY I.
An introduction to the fundamentals of typography as well as a study of the history of written language, letterforms and typographic traditions are examined through progressive assignments that stress type rendering skills and craftsmanship. Students explore the theoretical and applied use of type as an integral part of visual communication.
(ART 130)

GRD 210
GRAPHIC DESIGN II.
This course solidifies the basic skills of Graphic Design I and applies them to the principles of advertising design. Through directed projects, students not only explore the design of advertising but write headlines, copy and creative strategies, as well. The emphasis of this course is on unique solutions, relevant communication and presentation tactics.
(GRD 110)

GRD 230
COMPUTER STUDIO I.
An introductory computer course with an emphasis on publishing software, students are introduced to the Apple Macintosh OSX. Basic skills in Adobe’s Illustrator, Photoshop and InDesign, as well as QuarkXPress are taught to enable students to execute their ideas.
(GRD 121; GRD 110 preferred)

GRD 231
COMPUTER STUDIO II.
An intermediate course which emphasizes the graphics software Adobe Illustrator and Adobe Photoshop. Through progressive project assignments and exercises, students learn the benefits of each software and how to use the appropriate software to execute designs effectively.
(GRD 230)

GRD 232
TYPOGRAPHY II .
This intermediate typography course emphasizes looking at type as form and shape. Students learn to create original type forms, to experiment with how type functions in various formats, and how to look at typography in coordination with grids in layouts.
(GRD 110, 121)

GRD 251
PROFESSIONAL PRACTICES .
Learning important business procedures related to the graphic design industry is the crux of this course. Some of the topics covered are client relationships, time management, project management, job cost analysis, contracts, presentation skills, proper production techniques and general business management skills.
(GRD 210, 231)

GRD 310
GRAPHIC DESIGN III.
The visual language of identity design and packaging design are studied in-depth. Students design logos, identity packages and product packaging to gain an understanding of visual continuity. Creative strategy writing is employed to define the most effective visual representation of companies and products.
(GRD 210, 231)

GRD 321
ILLUSTRATION.
The use of conceptual skills is applied to illustration as students learn to solve illustration problems and create successful visual communication that fulfills strategic goals. Exploration of various mediums is encouraged.
(GRD 210, 230, ART 112)

GRD 331
BUSINESS PRACTICES.
Learning important business procedures related to the graphic design profession is the crux of this course. Some of the topics covered are professional/client relationships, time management, job cost analysis, contracts and general business management skills.
(GRD 310, 320) Spring

GRD 332
TYPOGRAPHY III .
This advanced typography course culminates in the production of an original magazine. Students learn about continuity, type flow and color, editorial context and display versus body text
(GRD 310)

GRD 341
MULTI-MEDIA I.
An introduction to multimedia graphic design with an emphasis on Web site design. Students gain an understanding of the terminology, development tools, and fundamental skills (including learning HTML) related to designing a successful Web site. Current software applications such as Dreamweaver, Flash, Fireworks and ImageReady are learned as appropriate to the process.
(GRD 210, 221, 231)

GRD 370
SPECIAL TOPIC IN DESIGN: CD pACKAGING.
This graphic design elective course focuses on the specifics of designing music CD packaging. Outside professionals, along with faculty, discuss the design, production, creative and business aspects involved. Students have freedom in designing projects of personal interest, using the skills taught throughout the semester. The goal is to have viable portfolio pieces by the end of the semester.
(GRD 210, 221, 231)

GRD 410
GRAPHIC DESIGN IV.
Students venture into advanced graphic design projects. Relying heavily on skills learned in previous graphic design courses, students design multi-page brochures and complex, coordinated design campaigns that effectively communicate through varied media.
(GRD 310)

GRD 441
MULTI-MEDIA II.
Building on skills learned in GRD 341, students continue with the development of problem solving skills through digital media. Through directed individual projects, students use current software to explore the development of such projects as interactive CD-ROM or DVD design, advanced Web site design, and Flash animation.
(GRD 341)

GRD 461
SENIOR PORTFOLIO DEVELOPMENT.
This course is the final step towards preparing students for the job market. Under the direction of senior graphic design faculty, each student completes a competitive, entry-level portfolio and learns the presentation skills needed to succeed in the interview process. A senior exhibition is required for graduation and portfolios are evaluated by all full-time faculty members as well as industry professionals. Each student completes a strategy for locating a job, a resume and identity system, and a self-promotional marketing tool such as a personal website.
(GRD 310, 441)

GRD 470
INTERNSHIP I.
An internship provides an opportunity for students to work with professional designers and to gain hands-on experience. Students make valuable contacts and attain practical knowledge while working in a creative business environment. Student interests and abilities are matched with appropriate businesses such as record labels, advertising agencies and Nashville’s own Hatch Show Print. This course counts as a studio elective.
(Permission of Graphic Design Chair; usually done summer after Junior or during Senior year)