Graphic Design Courses

Graphic Design for Non-Majors

Course No. GDS 200  Credits: 3.0
Faculty Len Peralta

This course is designed to teach the basics of graphic and communication design to non-Graphic Design majors. Students will be introduced to the key graphic elements of hierarchy, grid, typography, and organizing principles of design. While students learn these basics, they will also be introduced to the concepts of User Focus and User Experience design. The assignments are geared to help the students develop strategic thinking skills as they hone their graphic communication skills.

Typography I

Course No. GDS 203  Credits: 3.0

This is one of the two central classes in the first year of study in Communication Design (alongside Design for Communication I) 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 sub-fields 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 presentation 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. Offered fall.

Typography II

Course No. GDS 204  Credits: 3.0
Faculty Debi Belt
Prerequisite(s) Typography I

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 Typography I or equivalent. Offered spring.

Graphic User Interface: Information Architecture

Course No. GDS 206-306-406  Credits: 3.0

In the Information Age, the presentation of information is of special importance. Information surrounds us at every moment: the phone bill, the weather forecast, global warming reports, the list of your friends on Facebook...all of this information must be organized in some fashion to make it meaningful. This course will focus on how designers and artists can effectively represent information in a visual format. Special emphasis will be placed on how information is used to persuade or affect us. Concepts explored will include informational systems and graphics developed for physical and electronic media. Students will architect informational systems in a medium of their choice (online, print, painting, etc.).

Limited Edition Portfolio Publication

Course No. GDS 207-307-407  Credits: 3.0

This course revolves around creation of a well designed, beautifully executed, printed and bound "leave behind" portfolio. 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.

Graphics for Design

Course No. GDS 237-238  Credits: 3.0
Faculty Debi Belt | Jennifer Grimes

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 the keys elements of graphic and communication design. Offered fall.

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 second semester, students investigate projects that follow the various sub-fields 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 presentation 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. Offered fall.

Design for Communication II

Course No. GDS 266  Credits: 3.0
Faculty Debi Belt
Prerequisite(s) Design for Communication I (EP)

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 sub-fields 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 presentation 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. Prerequisite: GDS 265 Design for Communication I or permission of spring instructor. Offered spring.