Courses Courses

Typography II

Course No. GDS 204  Credits: 3.0

Through the use of studied, well designed and competently executed design solutions, we will emphasize the effective and sensitive use of typeforms in complex and sustained communication projects. The attributes of rhythm, proportion, hierarchy, and progression will be investigated, emphasized, and practiced to produce excellent quality professional solutions. Projects are carried out in varying degrees of execution including sketchbook roughs, presentation sketches, laser comprehensives, and finished art. Thoughtful experimentation with the software and imaging equipment is encouraged to extend and challenge the process. The course objectives will be pursued through assigned projects, explanations, demonstrations, and group critiques. Prerequisite: GDS 203 or equivalent. 3 credits.

Graphics for Design

Course No. GDS 237-238  Credits: 3.0

This course is designed to teach graphic presentation skills for non-majors in the first semester, and to help students create an effective professional presentation package in the second. The first semester focuses on developing an understanding of key graphic elements, including; grid, type and hierarchy. The second semester focuses on students using these elements to develop their personal portfolios and professional presentation packages. The emphasis of the entire course is to teach effective visual presentation skills. All assignments are geared to help the students develop overall presentation abilities, while building a basic understanding of the key elements of graphic and communication design. 3 credits.

Design for Communication I (EP)

Course No. GDS 265  Credits: 3.0

This is one of the two central classes in the first year of study in Graphic Design (alongside Typography). In the first semester, students become familiar with the broader discipline of the field through the construction of abstract design concepts, layout, symbols, and sequential systems. Conceptual thinking and the integration of typography with imagery are explored throughout the course. In the 2nd semester, students investigate projects that follow the various subfields of the profession; projects include Identity, Web/Interactive, Information and Wayfinding. Students will be assigned multiple projects throughout the year. Each project begins with a lecture and demonstration of techniques. Each week, students practice presentations to the larger group in formal and informal critique and brainstorming sessions. Faculty will work one on one with students to answer questions and assist in the process. Reviews will be held at key points during each project. 3 credits.

Design for Communication II

Course No. GDS 266  Credits: 3.0

This is one of the two central classes in the first year of study in Graphic Design (alongside Typography). In this course, students investigate projects that follow the various subfields of the profession; projects include Identity, Web/Interactive, Information and Wayfinding. Students will be assigned multiple projects throughout the year. Each project begins with a lecture and demonstration of techniques. Each week, students practice presentations to the larger group in formal and informal critique and brainstorming sessions. Faculty will work one on one with students to answer questions and assist in the process. Reviews will be held at key points during each project. Prerequisites: GDS 265 or permission of instructor. 3 credits.

Web Design/Interactive I

Course No. GDS 305  Credits: 3.0

Through this course, students will learn how to use different software tools to design, implement, and produce a Graphic User Interface. Our efforts will be mostly concentrated on creating web/internet/ interactive projects, as these will allow for the exercise of ideas and tools across the entire design spectrum. Students will have a grasp of the essential technology used for web applications: the Hyper-Text Markup Language (including HTML 5) and Cascading Style Sheets (CSS). You will be introduced to several techniques that will allow you to begin making interactive applications, which include PHP, JQuery and Javascript, as well as looking at user experience and design of apps for smart phone and pads. The course will also include an introduction to designing and creating Epub formats. Prerequisites: GDS 265 or permission of instructor. 3 credits.

Web Design/Interactive II

Course No. GDS 305B  Credits: 3.0

This class builds and expands the study begun in Web Design/Interactive 1 (Graphic User Interface 1). Students move to more advanced structures and interface ideas. Experimental possibilities are explored as students develop web and portable device designs, furthering the skills learned in the first section of the class. Pre-requisites: GDS305. 3 credits.

Hand Made Book

Course No. GDS 309-409  Credits: 3.0

This course will encompass an introduction to bookbinding tools and techniques. A hands-on approach to the school’s production facilities, giving students the opportunity to work with the potentials and limitations of the reproduction process. Responsible experimentation with production tools and facilities is encouraged to expand and challenge the process. The course objectives will be pursued through explanations, demonstrations, and critiques. GDS 203 Typography I and GDS 265 Design for Communication I are strongly recommended. 3 credits.

User Experience/User Interface Design (EP)

Course No. GDS 320-420  Credits: 3.0

The technological changes of the past 10 years have expanded the possibilities for graphic interface design in countless ways. From devices, to wearables, to the Internet of Things, providing an intuitive and enjoyable experience via a Graphic Interface is critical to both attracting and keeping users. User Experience methodology is central to this design revolution. By understanding and employing the key tools of UX methodology (empathy maps, journey maps, information sorting and architecture, etc) designers are able to create smart, beautiful and useful solutions to contemporary design problems. Employing the core concepts of Graphic Design, such as hierarchy, information and narrative flow, grids, and basic typography are central to successful designs and experiences. This class aims to demystify user experience by having students engage in rapid prototyping of Interfaces using contemporary methods and tools. Students will not only create workable prototypes of their designs and apps, they will rapidly test them with an audience, gather feedback and rework their designs based on that feedback. These experiences will give students a practical and simple introduction to what UX is while also explaining some of the core concepts of usability. Open to juniors and seniors with one year of Graphic Design training or by signature of the instructor. Fulfills Engaged Practice requirement. 3 credits.