Being a professional graphic designer means solving business and communication problems. Designers provide expert advice and strategic creative services to clients to help them succeed in a competitive environment. The impact and results of the work will be measured by multiple sets of criteria—both yours and the client's. Each project must meet high aesthetic standards as well as specific business objectives. Because many professional design assignments span several different media such as print, online or broadcast, most projects require working in a multi-disciplinary team. Projects evolve through a process of multiple design directions and refinements, so you need to be very comfortable with the give-and-take of close collaboration. You'll get a solid foundation in composition, color, typography and concept development as you work on two- and three-dimensional projects such as posters, packaging, magazine layouts and logo designs.
This curriculum covers the basics of graphic design with an equal focus in print design and web design. There are many elements to the classes including: group work, collaborations with other students in the Integrated Media program (Broadcasting, Video and Photography), sponsored design projects for real clients and an internship, all of which prepare students for entry-level employment. Students create several portfolios of their design work by the conclusion of the program: a traditional printed portfolio, a web portfolio and an E-portfolio for sending to clients and prospective employers.
EMPLOYMENT OUTLOOK: A graduate of this program can expect to find entry-level employment in a wide variety of design settings averaging of $15 an hour. Many graduates who actively seek employment find work before or shortly after graduation. Current entry-level job titles include Interactive Web Designer, Publication Designer, Graphic Design Assistant, Digital Pre-press Technician, Web Graphics Producer, Junior Designer.
Read about the required Integrated Media core courses for 2012-13.
This course covers the development of basic conceptual and technical skills as well as the application of computer technology to the design process. Both theoretical and applied problems in typography (words) and graphic language (symbols) will be explored to introduce the processes involved in printed visual communications.
Through lecture and applied projects, an intermediate investigation of the expressive properties of typography and graphic imagery is explored. Students learn to apply basic color theory to designs to enhance a visual concept. Grid systems are introduced to structurally integrate type and graphic elements in a composition. Emphasis is placed on the continued development of digital skills used in the major graphic software programs to prepare artwork for printed reproduction.
This course explores developing effective creative concepts in both 2- and 3-D formats that are part of a unified visual system. Students document their research, investigate multiple concepts and apply their knowledge of art historical styles to a multi-faceted project. A strong emphasis is placed on quality craftsmanship and preparing complex digital files using the Adobe Creative Suite.
Students learn to analyze, decode and encode written information through the study of typographic principles. Emphasis is on editorial hierarchy, readability and legibility. Students gain skills and tools for effective typographic expression and communication in traditional and digital applications.
Emphasis on image development using a range of digital illustration techniques. Project phases include the ideating, producing mood boards and maintaining morgue files. Students work with photographic and hand drawn material and in both raster and vector image applications.
The examination of visual, conceptual and communication factors as applied to brand identity development. Focus is on brand messaging to internal and external target audiences and the development of business marketing strategies through visual identity systems.
This course covers the research, development, organization, design, and visual presentation of a complex printed document such as a magazine, calendar, annual report, or other publication. Developing a visual narrative, storytelling, rhythm and pace are all strategies used in building a compelling reader experience. All aspects of design, content and image creation as well as digital prepress production and distribution are addressed.
The capstone project course designed to showcase the student's overall conceptual abilities and technical competencies. Students will demonstrate their understanding of all phases of the design process from research, to implementation, to final critical analysis.