Students will learn how to work through steps of the graphic design process, starting with the identification and research of design problems, and the intended message and the target audience, to development of basic graphic design solutions presented visually through clear, well-executed layouts created by both traditional and electronic means. Fundamental graphic design and typographic principles, elements, techniques and vocabulary used in design problem solving will be introduced. Students in this course will also learn about areas/categories of graphic design, creating examples such as posters, book/CD covers and logos. Topics covering selecting appropriate printing papers, professional practices, psychology of color, and critique methods will also be introduced.

This course includes the study of a survey of art and design movements, designers, and typographers who have made significant contributions to the field of Graphic Design.

This course will provide students with skills and techniques used in areas of digital illustration, including comparison of techniques and functions of vector and bitmap software programs to create professional-quality renderings. Various kinds of illustration will be introduced, including editorial, book, and information illustration (illustrated charts and graphs). Students will have the opportunity to create professional quality illustrations for various audiences and media.