Bachelor of Arts
Graphic Design
Program Learning Outcomes
- Students will learn how to design a professional portfolio that meets industry standards that takes into account the students identifying area of specialization.
- Learn how to lead and participate in client meetings and conduct themselves professionally.
- Increase student’s technical ability in using “high tech” and “low tech” tools and materials including various hardware, software and applications to design and produce graphic works.
- Learn how to develop skills in budgeting and time management.
- Learn about ethical responsibility to the client including treating clients fairly, respecting their uniqueness, their fundamental rights, dignity and worth, and their right to set objectives and make decisions. Maintaining appropriate boundaries in the relationship, avoid exploiting the relationship in any way, and be clear with clients about their specific role; protect all privileged information, obtaining informed consent from clients before using or referring publicly to client information in such a way that the client could be identified.
Degrees and Certificates
-
Graphic Design, -
Graphic Design, Minor
Classes
GPD 161: Introduction to Graphic Design
Class Program
An introduction to the fundamentals of computer graphics and graphic design. Principles of digital design, composition, computerized layout, typography, and imaging applied to advertising, graphic design, and publication design for print and digital design. Students learn to use software such as Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign on Apple platform.
Semester Offered
Offered every fall semester and spring semester, odd-numbered years.
GPD 220: Principles of Digital Photography
Class Program
A basic course in capturing and manipulating still images using various techniques and digital technology. Students learn their skills in pixel-based photographic design and printing. Students will learn to shoot with a digital camera, lighting, studio lighting, and composition. Students will also learn to use Photoshop to alter their photos. Recommended for ART majors.
Semester Offered
Offered fall semester, odd-numbered years.
GPD 261: Intermediate Graphic Design
Class Program
Intermediate Graphic Design is the second criteria in a series stressing creative problem solving as applied to design, color, typography and layout. Graphic design principals will be introduced in depth. Design elements used in identity and campaign research, development of visual collateral and publications using Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign applications. Further development of the student’s portfolio will be done in this class.
Prerequisite Courses
Semester Offered
Offered fall semester.
GPD 264: History of Graphic Design
Class Program
A slide and lecture introduction to the history of graphic design. This class will cover graphic design starting with the invention of writing, the invention of the printing press to graphic design in the age of information. This course will be conducted in chronological order.
Core Tags
GL
Semester Offered
Offered spring semester, even-numbered years.
GPD 320: Web Design
Class Program
Web Design is an introduction to the fundamentals of web design. Students will develop several websites using Dreamweaver, HTML, CSS, Wordpress, and Photoshop. Topics to be covered in class include site maps, demographics, digital photography, manipulation of graphics, ecommerce, and Web design.
Prerequisite Courses
Semester Offered
Offered spring semester.
GPD 364: Pattern and Design as a Global Interpretation
Class Program
Through research, drawing, and computer software, students in Pattern and Design as a Global Interpretation investigate different ethnic patterns from various regions of the world to develop a personal vision and point of view. Students work from examples and the internet. Students use Photoshop, Illustrator, and Sketch to create repeating surface pattern designs with global influences.
Prerequisite Courses
Semester Offered
Offered fall semester, even-numbered years.
GPD 461: Advanced Graphic Design
Class Program
Design elements will be used in identity and campaign research, development of visual collateral and branding using Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign applications. Further development of the student’s portfolio will be done in this class. Budget and time constraints will be placed on students for them to have more practical experience.
Prerequisite Courses
Semester Offered
Offered fall semester.
GPD 464: Senior Graphic Design Portfolio
Class Program
GPD 464 will encompass design professional preparation including weekly portfolio review, resume and cover letter preparation, networking training and interview preparation. Students will simultaneously work on their portfolios and prepare them for completion prior to graduation, develop branding, self-promotion through a personal logo and website.
Prerequisites
GPD 161, and senior standing
Semester Offered
Offered spring semester.
Notes
Prof. Knowledge/Exp.
GPD 495: Professional Internship
The internship is an on-campus or off campus supervised experiential education of a Graphic Design student. It provides an opportunity for practical application of knowledge, skills and abilities acquired in graphic, web design and editorial design work. Student will be exposed to varied protocols, methodologies, and practices in a professional working environment. Students will build a professional portfolio and meet with the internship supervisor once each week for project review. Proposals for internships require prior approval of the Department Chair and the Vice President for Academic Affairs. Additional costs may apply when studies involve travel and/or off-campus settings. Subject to Internship rules and regulations.
Prerequisites
Permission of Instructor
Semester Offered
Offered at program discretion.
Notes
Engagement