Graphic Design

Surface, Space and Time is founded on the idea that visual design and its building blocks are universal across all creative applications. In this studio course students further their own ideas, experimenting with line, plane, shape, form, texture, value, color, space and time in relation to design principles. Students produce a range of projects diverse in media, acquire a broad set of basic studio skills and discover critical ways of thinking about their work. Students also encounter more mediums and applications through field trips and guest lectures (Course requires a $200 class fee)

Studio for Research and Practice introduces students to a focused and research driven coursework. Built upon foundations from Surface, Space & Time projects in this course are research and student driven to investigate contextual elements of language and image making as the language in various art forms including filmmaking. Projects will experiment with various image making/framing processes for investigation and interpretation of images as the language in different forms. (COR 101; Course requires a $200 class fee)

A critical and analytical study of significant events, personalities, and technological advances that have contributed to the global history of graphic design. This comprehensive course is a critical and analytical study of the factors contributing to the history of graphic design.

Through directed projects, this course will explore basic type design and its practical applications. Students will be introduced to expressive and conceptual use of type and will end the semester with an in-depth knowledge of typographic terminology, and an appreciation for the artistry of typographic forms. (COR 101; Co-requisite COR 102)

This course is an introduction to advertising design and focuses on developing strong creative advertising concepts. Through directed projects students will research, write creative objectives, and develop advertising that is highly conceptual and on target with creative work plans. (COR 102; GRD 121)

This is an introductory computer course with an emphasis on digital design, imaging, and publishing software. Students are introduced to Macintosh OSX and learn basic skills utilizing Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign. (COR 102, GRD 121)

This is an intermediate computer course with an emphasis on digital design and imaging. Students learn advanced computer skills and techniques related to the graphic design industry utilizing Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign. (GRD 230)

This intermediate typography course emphasizes expressive and experimental type. Students match type with message, manipulate type, and explore other creative uses of type. (COR 102; GRD 121)

The review takes place in the spring semester of the sophomore year. Students’ work, as well as their professional development, is evaluated by the Graphic Design faculty. Graphic Design majors must participate in this review before attending upper level graphic design courses. (Co-requisites: GRD 210, 231, 232, 341)

Through directed projects this course will explore the basic elements and principles of branding and corporate identity design. Students will design consumer labels as well as logos, letterhead packages and other elements of corporate identity design. (GRD 210, 231, 232)

By examining grid development and typographic systems, this advanced typography course focuses on the organization and effective communication of type when used in extended, large volume, published formats. (GRD 231, 232)

An introduction to multimedia design with an emphasis on website creation. Students gain an understanding of the terminology, development tools, and fundamental skills (including learning HTML, CSS, etc.) related to designing a successful website. Current software applications such as Dreamweaver and Photoshop are learned as appropriate to the process. (COR 102; GRD 230)

Building on skills learned in Web Development I, students continue to gain an understanding of the terminology, development tools, and fundamental skills (including learning HTML, CSS, ActionScript, etc.) related to designing a successful website. Current software applications such as Dreamweaver, and Photoshop are learned as appropriate to the process. (GRD 341)

Building on skills learned in GRD 342, students continue to gain an advanced understanding of the terminology, development tools, and skills (including learning HTML, CSS, ActionScript, etc.) related to designing a successful website. Current software applications such as Dreamweaver, and Photoshop are learned as appropriate to the process. (GRD 342)

This course will cover production methods, standard business practices, pricing and ethical guidelines for the graphic designer. (Co-requisite GRD 310)

Through directed projects students learn the unique design opportunities and challenges presented by package design and multiple page publications. (GRD 310, 332)

This course is the final step in preparing students for a career in visual communications. Under the direction of senior graphic design faculty, each student completes a competitive, entry-level portfolio and learns skills needed to succeed in the interview process. All full-time faculty members and guest design professionals evaluate each final portfolio. Capstone course required for Graphic Design Majors. (Co-requisite GRD 410)

The introductory course provides an understanding of the illustration process and its role as an art form that reflects, serves, and advances contemporary culture. Class assignments parallel professional practice. (COR 102)

This is an advanced computer course with an emphasis on digital design and illustration. Students learn advanced computer skills and techniques related to the graphic design industry utilizing current software. (GRD 231)

An analysis of art, archeology and history in the Pre-historic, Ancient World, Middle Ages, into the Early Renaissance. The focus is on art, architecture and relevant cultural context in the development of Western Art using contemporary methods and theories. Some non-Western history and themes will be included for context.

This survey of art begins in the High Renaissance and continues through the 1990s, focusing on European and American Art. Using current methods and theories in art history, specific artworks, artists and styles are discussed stressing the social, political, philosophic and individual influences.

Principles and practices of effective oral communication. Readings, lectures, and in-class exercises focusing on the preparation and delivery of four major presentations. Emphasis is on research and critical thinking to develop and support ideas, effective organizational and presentational techniques, ethics and responsibilities in public communication, effective listening, and insightful critique.

An overview of the conventions of grammar and an emphasis on effective expository and persuasive writing, with attention on the principles of research techniques and expressing thoughts and ideas clearly.

English Composition II is a continuation of English Composition I. This course emphasizes critical reading, writing, and analysis of texts with particular attention to research methods and writing. This course also provides an introduction to the study of literature and students are expected to demonstrate understanding and use of essay techniques in the form of literary analysis. (ENG 101)

A survey of the cultural, social, economic, and political aspects of significant civilizations from prehistory through the Seventeenth Century.

This survey of art begins in the High Renaissance and continues through the 1990s, focusing on European and American Art. Using current methods and theories in art history, specific artworks, artists and styles are discussed stressing the social, political, philosophic and individual influences.

A study of basic mathematics, algebra, and geometry as these show demonstrated use in modern life with applications to art and design.

Natural Science Requirement (select one)*

SCI 310 History of Scientific Thought
Lecture, 3 Credit Hours
An examination of some of the breakthrough theories in the history of science and of the minds that conceived them. The effect upon society and culture of these thinkers as well as the general course of empirical thinking is addressed. (ENG 102)

SCI 315 Biology in the Visual Arts
Lecture, 3 Credit Hours
This course combines formal instruction in the core concepts of biology with artistic exploration of biological phenomena, ideas, discoveries, questions, or research techniques to be selected by each student individually. (ENG 102)

Social Science Requirement (select one)

ANT 101 Anthropology
Lecture, 3 Credit hours
An overview of key elements in the study of early cultures, with an emphasis on selected early societies, their basic belief systems, myths, and values thereby generating respect for diversity. Can fulfill social science requirement or serve as a General Education elective.

HUM 210 Gender Studies
Lecture, 3 Credit hours
This course is a historical investigation of how specific cultures represent gender difference. Students examine a variety of cultural forms and phenomena including film, television, literature, music, popular movements, and institutions. Can fulfill social science requirement or serve as a General Education elective. (ENG 102)

PSY 101 Introduction to Psychology
Lecture, 3 Credit hours
This course is an introduction of human mental processes and behavior. This course serves as an overview of the history of psychology and the major fields within psychology with an emphasis on developing an understanding of psychology as the science of human thought and behavior. Can fulfill social science requirement or serve as a General Education elective.

GRD 344A PHP, MySQL & WordPress
Studio,  3 Credit Hours
The course is an introduction to one of today’s most popular website authoring tools, WordPress. Students will learn the underlying technology behind WordPress (PHP and MySQL), which enable them to extend WordPress and create custom WordPress Themes. A solid knowledge of HTML and CSS is required. Students complete weekly assignments and projects to gain a hands-on understanding of all three technologies.

GRD 344B HTML5 and CSS3
Studio,  3 Credit Hours
The course is an introduction to HTML5 and CSS3, the newest standards for building websites. Students learn to implement many of the new features of HTML5 and CSS3 to build modern, cross-browser, multiple device websites that incorporate interactivity and visual effects not possible in earlier versions of HTML and CSS. A solid knowledge of current HTML and CSS is required. Students complete weekly projects to gain a hands-on understanding of both technologies.

GRD 344D JavaScript and JQuery
Studio,  3 Credit Hours
The course is an in-depth exploration of the jQuery library as well as the underlying coding language behind it, JavaScript. jQuery is one of the most powerful tools available today for any website designer or developer, allowing almost unending ways to add interactivity, animation, movement, visual effects and more to any website. A solid knowledge of HTML and CSS is required. Students will work on specific lessons to build slideshows, form validation, sliding text boxes and more.

GRD Electives (3)

GRD 344A PHP, MySQL & WordPress
Studio,  3 Credit Hours
The course is an introduction to one of today’s most popular website authoring tools, WordPress. Students will learn the underlying technology behind WordPress (PHP and MySQL), which enable them to extend WordPress and create custom WordPress Themes. A solid knowledge of HTML and CSS is required. Students complete weekly assignments and projects to gain a hands-on understanding of all three technologies.

GRD 344B HTML5 and CSS3
Studio,  3 Credit Hours
The course is an introduction to HTML5 and CSS3, the newest standards for building websites. Students learn to implement many of the new features of HTML5 and CSS3 to build modern, cross-browser, multiple device websites that incorporate interactivity and visual effects not possible in earlier versions of HTML and CSS. A solid knowledge of current HTML and CSS is required. Students complete weekly projects to gain a hands-on understanding of both technologies.

GRD 344D JavaScript and JQuery
Studio,  3 Credit Hours
The course is an in-depth exploration of the jQuery library as well as the underlying coding language behind it, JavaScript. jQuery is one of the most powerful tools available today for any website designer or developer, allowing almost unending ways to add interactivity, animation, movement, visual effects and more to any website. A solid knowledge of HTML and CSS is required. Students will work on specific lessons to build slideshows, form validation, sliding text boxes and more.

GRD 351A History of Record Album Cover Art
Studio,  3 Credit Hours
The course is a journey through the world of record album cover design from the 1940s to the 1990s. Students explore a variety of genres and styles while researching trends, artists and the impact of culture and current events on the artwork that adorned “long playing” record albums. Students complete weekly design projects to gain hands on experience. (COR 102; Co-requisite GRD 230)

GRD 351B Graphic Design and Social Cause
Studio,  3 Credit Hours
Change is created in the world by using advertising and graphic design to present important ideas, raise awareness, and stimulate thought. In this course, students examine historical posters, ad campaigns, and ephemera that deal with social change. Projects include campaigns that deal with issues of global and local significance. (GRD 232)

GRD 351C Typeface Design
Studio,  3 Credit Hours
The course is an in-depth exploration of type design. Students will learn the unique visual considerations required to design and produce their own typefaces. (GRD 232)

GRD 351D Creative Problem Solving
Studio,  3 Credit Hours
The course explores a variety of techniques for stimulating fresh thinking and solving design problems. Through a series of projects, various brainstorming techniques are applied to the important phases of the design process: defining problems, generating ideas, and creating form. (GRD 210)

GRD 351E Logo Design
Studio,  3 Credit Hours
In this course students learn the history and development of logos and logo symbols as well as various applications for successful brand identity across a wide range of media. (GRD 310)

GRD 351F Art and Design Travel
Studio,  3 Credit Hours
This is a studio-centered travel course that explores place-based projects including visual narratives. (60 credit hours, 3.0 GPA)

This course is designed to further develop the principles of advertising design. Emphasis will be placed on concept development and the importance of integrating copy concept and image to communicate an effective message. Through directed projects, students research clients, write headlines and body copy, create or find appropriate imagery, and develop advertising that is highly conceptual, profession executed, and on-target with approved creative plans. (GRD 210)

Students make valuable contacts and attain practical knowledge while working in a creative business environment. An internship provides the opportunity for students to work with professional designers, illustrators, and art directors. (Junior or Senior status; Chair approval)

General Education Elective Exploration classes can be any lecture class offered in the General Education curriculum or any Film School Special Topics class.

Art or Design History Elective 200 level and above

This course is an introduction to the techniques of printmaking and includes the methods of monoprint, intaglio, relief printing, and screen printing. This class explores the graphic potential available from the printmaking process. The student determines imagery and content. The class structure consists of demonstrations, scheduled workdays, and regular critiques. (COR 102)

The course will explore sequential imagery, character development, storyboards, and concept drawings essential in the production of successful picture book illustrations. Students will develop a cohesive body of work that represents a singular visual voice. (ILN 321. Formerly GRD 321)

Students will work with visiting professionals–illustrators, designer-illustrators, and/or animators–to benefit from distinctly different and valuable perspectives. Students will be exposed to current and emerging markets for illustration. (ILN 321)

Building on learned skills and principles in beginning and intermediate level courses, students will produce an advanced, cohesive portfolio of work for deployment in print, digital media, and/or gallery environment. (ILN 322)

This is an introduction to basic photography, providing a foundation in lens-based still photographic techniques and practices. Emphasis is placed on developing technical skills with digital and film cameras and digital printing, and with gaining a critical awareness of the photographic medium through assignments and critiques. A digital camera with manual exposure and RAW file capture is required. Film cameras may be loaned to students as needed. (COR 102)