Course description
As our society becomes more visual, the role of the graphic designer increases in significance. Graphic designers create the design and layout of web sites, brochures, package labels, magazines and more.
In The Art Center’s Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design program, you will learn to balance creativity with client needs. You’ll experience the design process in a hands-on environment and develop problem-solving skills essential to a successful career. To ensure that you are well-rounded, your education will include applications in traditional and innovative design techniques, in-depth production training and learning to use state-of-the-art computer equipment and programs. The program culminates with the development of a professional quality portfolio. Graduates from this program are qualified to seek employment as graphic designers, web designers, computer graphic artists and production artists.
Course Descriptions - Graphic Design
GD100 – Introduction to Graphic Design
This course introduces the student to the field of graphic design. Students will learn the role and the responsibilities of graphic designers and the different personnel they work with in the industry. Students will also learn the principles and elements of design, what a concept is and the importance of type and image in visual communication.
GD105 – Print Production
This course introduces the student to the fundamentals of print production. Students will learn the differences between line art and tone art and the reproduction of type, photographs and graphics. Commercial printing and other printing processes will also be explored such as communicating with the printer, planning for results, and various papers and inks.
GD110 – History of Graphic Design
This course provides the students with the historical aspects of graphic design. Students will understand the development of graphic design as a means of identification and communicating information, the contributions of the pioneers, and technical innovations including the impact of the digital revolution on
the industry.
GD200 – Typography
Students will learn the fundamentals of type, from typographic terminology, characteristics of letterforms to basic principles of designing with type. Message and meaning and using type creatively and expressively will also be explored.
Prereq: GD100, GD105
GD201 – Grid Layout
Students will expand their design capabilities by learning to design single to multiple page documents using the “grid system.” Students will also learn about communicating with color.
Prereq: GD100, GD105, GD110, GD200, CP100, CP101, FA101
GD202 – Advertisement Design
Students develop designs for eliciting specific feelings or communicating specific messages. Various advertising formats will be used to convey design concepts. Prereq: GD100, GD105, GD110, GD200, GD201, FA101, CP100, CP101, CP102
GD210 – Associate Portfolio Development
Students in the Associate of Arts in Visual Communications prepare a representative example of their best work for portfolio completion. Projects must be executed and defended using industry standards.
Prereq: All studio courses for Visual Communications Associate degree
GD300 – Graphic Design Concepts
This course expands on the fundamental information presented in introductory and intermediate design classes. Through concept development and a variety of graphic design formats, students will target specific markets for a client’s product or service.
Prereq: All lower division GD requirements
GD301 – Brand Identity Design
Students will develop the skills necessary to develop and design brand identity, as well as applications for establishing a plan and identity will be examined. Students will use case studies and examples to discuss application techniques.
Prereq: All lower division GD requirements, GD300, CP300, CP301, CP302
GD302 – Direct Response Design
This course focuses on applying design techniques in a variety of direct marketing and advertising projects. Students will create a cohesive direct-response advertising campaign utilizing diverse materials and creative methods.
Prereq: All lower division GD requirements, GD300, CP300, CP301, CP302
GD303 – Package and Label Design
This course provides students the opportunity to apply previously learned design skills to advanced packaging and label design projects. Students will research various aspects of package design such as brand identity and consumer markets before creating applicable package/label designs.
Prereq: All lower division GD requirements, GD300, CP300, CP301, CP302
GD400 – Senior Design Studio
Students independently develop and present a series of design projects. Emphasis is on research into areas of special interest to the student. The projects must meet the Design program’s guidelines and be presented in portfolio form to a committee of faculty members.
Prereq: All studio courses for Graphic Design Bachelor’s degree except Portfolio Development (CP402 can be taken concurrently)
GD403 – Internship
This course provides the students the opportunity to substitute course credit with work experience in external business environments. The Department Chair will evaluate work experience and determine if credit is substituted based on stated requirements for the appropriate course.
GD500 – Portfolio Development
Bachelor’s degree students prepare a representative example of their best work for portfolio completion. Projects must be executed and defended using industry standards.
Prereq: All studio courses for Graphic Design Bachelor’s degree except Senior Design Studio (CP402 can be taken concurrently)
