GRPH 1300 — 3 UNITS

COMPUTER ILLUSTRATION

In this course students continue to build on their illustration skills with vector drawing techniques. From tracing artwork to creating entertaining infographics, more advanced uses of Adobe Illustrator are explored including the use of Libraries and custom palettes.

GRPH 1420 — 3 UNITS

2-D DESIGN

This course introduces the formal elements of line, shape, color, texture, and composition as well as the graphic principles of balance, scale, emphasis, repetition, and unity. Students also explore all aspects of two-dimensional design and imagery, which is essential to achieve a solid design.

GRPH 1500 — 3 UNITS

CRITICAL CONCEPTS

Students are introduced to conceptual thinking and the role of a graphic designer as a visual problem solver. Students identify a design problem, develop a visual solution, and present ideas through thumbnail sketches for group critique. Brainstorming sessions and teamwork are integrated as part of class participation. Prerequisite: GNST 1080

GRPH 1720 — 3 UNITS

TYPOGRAPHY

This course explores the fundamental traditions of typography combined with computer technology. It provides the foundation from which students can develop both an understanding of typography and a personal aesthetic.

GRPH 2050 — 3 UNITS

BRAND X

BRAND X Students investigate the visual and physical personality of a current brand and develop an effective visual identity for it, utilizing all applicable marketing materials. Prerequisite: GRPH 1720

GRPH 2080 — 3 UNITS

PHOTO RENDERING

Using Photoshop, students employ a wide range of skills to produce smooth, detailed, and eventful computer-rendered environments and characters. They also learn how to avoid problems commonly inherent in signature poses of a character, creative movement, and rough planes.

GRPH 2120 — 3 UNITS

PUBLICATION DESIGN

This course helps students craft a variety of image and text-based content into harmonious and legible designs in catalog and magazine formats for both print and digital delivery. Prerequisites: GRPH 1720, GRPH 2780

GRPH 2130 — 3 UNITS

CONCEPTUAL DESIGN

This course explores the role that concept, a dominant creative idea, plays in entertainment design

from thumbnail sketch to final product. Students learn industry-specific techniques (or entertainment isms) for achieving the WOW factor for full marketing campaigns.

GRPH 2230 — 3 UNITS

UX DESIGN

This course offers a practical introduction to UX (user experience) design emphasizing the importance of research in the design process. Inspired by this research, students develop solutions for a variety of applications centered around a specific set of users. Wire-framing is used to illustrate design concepts and students learn how to create a clickable prototype.

GRPH 2300 — 3 UNITS

PREPRESS PRODUCTION

A fundamental class in preparing art files for print reproduction, this course covers desktop publishing, printing techniques (conventional and digital), paper, color, inks, imposition folding, and finishing. Students prepare a design from concept to final reproduction. Prerequisite: GRPH 1720

GRPH 2380 — 3 UNITS

PACKAGING DESIGN

Students develop creative packaging solutions that attract attention while communicating visually through the use of three-dimensional form, packaging materials, typography, color, and graphics. Prerequisites: GRPH 2300, GRPH 2500

GRPH 2400 — 3 UNITS

GRAPHICS/LICENSING

This course introduces students to product licensing through the development of original characters and their related products. The students create their own intellectual property and present it as a Style Guide. Includes a three (3) hour lab.

GRPH 2420 — 3 UNITS

DEVELOPING ASSETS

This class equips students to convert thumbnail sketches into original, finished art. By developing strong Adobe Photoshop skills, students learn how to rebuild figures, add extensions, and build comps. Students gain experience in preparing these elements whether computer-generated, illustrated, or photographed so that they can be loaded onto the server for designers developing a theatrical campaign.

GRPH 2470 — 3 UNITS

MOTION GRAPHIC DESIGN

Students solve graphic design problems using creative brainstorming, storyboarding, and the integration of media including images, illustrations, text, audio, and video. A hands-on course focused on the design of motion graphics, students learn basic motion graphics principles using Adobe After Effects. The final project demonstrates an understanding of 3-D design, timing, and composition to create an impactful motion graphic. Includes a three (3) hour lab. Prerequisite: GRPH 2230