This course is an introduction to the fundamental principles of typography (the visual representation of language) to effectively convey information and ideas to specific audiences. Focus is on the communicative function and aesthetic nature of typographic problem-solving. Course content and lectures will cover typographic terminology, type anatomy, history of typography, as well as type classification, type measurement, and issues of legibility and readability. Once students are introduced to the fundamentals of typography, they will include imagery as appropriate. Students will also refine their skills using relevant software.

This course will introduce the concepts, principles, and techniques of motion design and animation. Topics covered are planning and organization methods in the form of storyboards, animatics, kinetics, animation principles, sequencing, composition, visual variables, and forms of narrative storytelling. Focus is on the integration of time and media, such as illustration, photography, video, audio, animation, and type, to communicate a moving message. This course will emphasize design from a problem-solving point of view and explores the production timeline.

This comprehensive course will expand student knowledge of motion principles and theories and allow students to hone their technical skills. The course will cover advanced principles of motion graphics and animated storytelling. Focus will be on complex motion and animation techniques and best workflow practices. Two-dimensional and three-dimensional elements will be incorporated in working with spatial and visual continuity. Emphasis will be on experimentation, interactive storytelling, and the ability to convey a message through motion. Advanced techniques such as graph editors, working in 3D space with camera and motion tracking, video, audio, rotoscoping, compositing, and rendering will be introduced.

This course explores information design in experiential and environmental contexts, focusing on three-dimensional spaces. It emphasizes problem-solving for functional requirements, information transmission, accessibility, and design structures in both print and digital formats. Key concepts include systems thinking, structural analysis, diagrammatic interpretation, and the visual display of information, with a focus on creating effective information graphics in spatial environments. The course builds on previously learned principles to help users navigate various interior and exterior environments while conveying relevant information. Applications include architectural graphics, signage, wayfinding, themed exhibition experiences, books, 2D graphics, and dynamic environments.

This course encompasses and expands on previous interactive design, development, and graphic design experience. In this class, the application of user-centered design methodologies will be emphasized in the planning and implementing of interactive, instructional projects across multiple devices and platforms. Thorough exploration of the user experience will explored, and the resulting informed decisions on designing effective user interfaces. Students will engage in projects that incorporate contemporary social-cultural issues and will directly handle real content to define the underlying information architecture and structure of their interactive solutions. Design patterns, current, and future trends related to UI design will be discussed and applied according to industry’s best practices.

This course explores the work of historically marginalized designers—women, people of color, and others outside traditional design institutions—emphasizing diversity in design history. Students will examine overlooked contributions through archival research, critical writing, and publication design. Activities include guest lectures, screenings, and visits to collections such as the Cary Graphic Arts Collection and the Vignelli Center for Design Studies. Students will conduct independent and collaborative research, create written and visual content. By course end, students will be able to identify and articulate the impact of underrepresented designers, conduct design-focused historical research, and produce a professionally printed publication which will be nationally distributed. **Fee: A course fee applied via student account**

In this course students will learn strategies to obtain internships and permanent employment in the graphic design profession. Emphasis will be placed on the various positions available to designers, the designer/client relationship, business aspects of design, and professional ethics and expectations. At the conclusion of this course students will be able to create promotional materials, including resume and portfolio design so that students can effectively and professionally present themselves in the field.

This course exposes students to the professional environment through outside job opportunities in graphic design studios, advertising agencies, corporate communications departments, and other acceptable organizations. Students will work under the guidance of art directors, creative directors, senior graphic designers, or marketing communications managers and perform creative work that is educational and meaningful for their short-term academic goals as well as their long-range career preparation. Documentation of the experience is required and final review from employer is obtained. The appointed faculty adviser will meet with the student upon completion for final evaluation for a grade. Students must obtain pre-approval of their department and complete the Internship Approval Form. Credit earned is used toward elective credits.

Graphic Design Independent Study will provide students with the ability to focus in a specialized area of graphic design with an individual faculty member. Students, with the assistance of a faculty adviser, will propose a course of study. The independent study student must obtain permission of an instructor and department by completing the Independent Study Proposal Form to enroll.