Graphic Design

GD100 Photography I (3 credits)

This course gives basic instruction in photographic techniques: exposure control, film development, print making, lighting (both natural and artificial), composition, creative use of camera controls, films, papers, mounting, and display. It also includes a section on the various uses of photography.

GD101 Typography (3 credits)

This course will cover both the history of type and the importance of typography as an integral part of design. Students will study the evolution of typography from the origin of the alphabet to contemporary computer-generated fonts and page layout. Type design projects will range from the creative use of basic letterforms and individual typefaces to more practical assignments involving the hierarchy and arrangement of type in grid structures. Most classes will include lessons and demonstrations followed by hands-on exercises and design time with individual attention given to students.

GD102 History of Graphic Design (3 credits)

This lecture/slide course traces the sources of design through history. From cave paintings to the development of writing and printing, this course will explore visual communications through to the modern movement. Major emphasis is placed on the twentieth century and the influences that affected trends in contemporary graphic design. Students will analyze major historical accomplishments, as well as technological influences.

GD105 Graphic Design I (3 credits)

This studio course introduces the student to Graphic Design as a field of study. Emphasis is on developing layout presentation techniques and using conventional design methods to produce ideas from concept through to final application. Students will be encouraged to solve simple design problems in order to communicate ideas in a creative and professional manner. PR: AR101 & AR112 & GD101.

GD106 Graphic Design II (3 credits)

This studio course allows the student to experiment with the elements and principles of graphic design. Projects will be geared toward using graphics as a means of communication with the consumer market. Assignments will progress in complexity to help students develop a personal style and to design for specific client requirements. These assignments will include designs for brochures, logos, advertisements, and illustrations as applied to business and industry. PR: AR102 & GD105.

GD110 Computer Typography (3 credits)

This studio course explores the use of computer-generated typography for aesthetic and communicative purposes. Students will learn how to design with, specify, and fit computer-generated type. The creative use of type as it relates to effective communication will be emphasized. The course will include an introduction to QuarkXpress, Illustrator, In Design, and Photoshop.

GD111 Electronic Publication Design (3 credits)

This is a studio course that explores the use of QuarkXPress as a means of developing publication designs for printed documents. This is a hands-on course that actively explores procedures and problems encountered in desktop publishing. The emphasis is on developing a strong grasp of how to use QuarkXPress so that the student can become independently productive. PR: GD105.

GD125 Photography II (3 credits)

This course develops many of the basics that were covered in Photography I: manipulation of the manual 35 mm camera, the study of composition and exposure techniques, and the use of natural light. Additionally, the student will learn the proper methods of using artificial lighting, as well as posing and portraiture techniques. Working with color film, the student will learn to use color, tone, and contrast in an effective way. The student will also examine the basic principles of photojournalism and digital camera photography, and will produce work in that genre. PR: GD100.

GD201 Packaging Design Portfolio (3 credits)

This is a studio course that builds on the techniques demonstrated in previous graphic design courses. Emphasis will be placed on designing packages as a marketing tool through the use of color, typography, and graphic elements. The student will be introduced to 3-D design. The culmination of the course is the production of a portfolio of student work from previous classes. Professionalism will be stressed through studio critiques and project development. PR: AR102 & GD105.

GD205 Presentation Graphics (3 credits)

This is a studio course that introduces the student to presenting visual ideas through the use of various media techniques. The course will focus on the use and evaluation of media that best communicate ideas and methods used in reproducing a project for presentation purposes. A series of assignments will allow students to integrate the knowledge gained from introductory classes. Students will be introduced to the capabilities of Photoshop. PR: GD106.

GD310 Photo Imaging I (3 credits)

This course in Adobe Photoshop will begin with the fundamentals of digital imaging. Emphasis will be on mastering the tools provided in the Photoshop tool box as well as the menu and palette options to manipulate images. Effective use of color correction and photo retouching effects will be examined. This course will introduce the student to project-appropriate scanning and resolution options. PR: GD106 & GD205.

GD311 Photo Imaging II (3 credits)

This course will continue to develop the advanced knowledge of the capabilities of Adobe Photoshop needed for proficiency in the graphic design field. Students will analyze complex imaging issues and fine-tune manipulation to synthesize project-appropriate results. Demonstrations and discussions will form the basis of this practicum-based course. PR: GD310.

GD340 Graphic Design III (3 credits)

This course is for third-year students, who will undertake professional-level projects, including research and analysis of problems. Research, interpretation, and development of concepts are stressed. Students develop confidence, sophistication, and innovative design thinking, which are all qualities that lead the designer to a mastery of effective visual communication. PR: GD106 & junior status.

GD408 Flash [Animation] (3 credits)

This course will begin with a thorough introduction to the Flash interface, then explore the creation of animations and Flash websites. The course will involve exercises and drills that enable the student to use Flash in conjunction with several other programs (including Photoshop, Illustrator, Freehand, and Dreamweaver), and skills that enable students to work with animation on web sites. PR: CS232 or permission of instructor.

GD418 Professional Practice (3 credits)

This course examines business practices and procedures for graphic designers, with emphasis on establishing a business plan, managing a design firm, marketing, business development, and project management. Proposal writing, pricing, estimating, and budgeting will be examined. Strategies for developing good working relationships with clients, contractors, and suppliers will be analyzed. Copyright laws and the manipulation of photographic images will also be addressed. PR: senior status.

GD490 Capstone I: Proposal and Prospectus (3 credits)

The Graphic Design Capstone I introduces the student to an exploration of projects of greater complexity than have been studied so far. Particular emphasis is placed on practice-based projects. Students investigate strategies, develop analyses related to designer/client projects, and refine design solutions. The course concludes with a professional presentation to the client. PR: senior status.

GD495 Capstone II: Development and Implementation (3 credits)

The Graphic Design Capstone II builds on Capstone I, with the student using visual logic to develop multi-design solutions that synthesize analyses of the project begun in Capstone I. The completed project and documentation will be presented by the student to faculty and graphic design professionals. PR: GD490.

GD498 Graphic Design Bachelor Thesis (3 credits)

As an alternative to completing an internship, during the senior year students may elect to write a research paper on an approved topic. The paper will focus on a current graphic design issue and involve significant research. Students must submit a written report to the faculty mentor, who provides guidance throughout the project. PR: senior status & Dean's approval.

GD499 Graphic Design Internship (3 credits)

This course gives the student the opportunity to integrate classroom learning with off-campus work experience in the graphic design field. Employer evaluations and the student’s achievements are used by the coordinator to guide the student toward appropriate career objectives. PR: senior status & approved Internship Petition.

PR = prerequisite(s)