Print and Graphic Media Science MS - Curriculum

This is an introductory graduate-level survey course on research design/methods and analysis. The course provides a broad overview of the process and practices of research in applied contexts. Content includes principles and techniques of research design, sampling, data collection, and analysis including the nature of evidence, types of research, defining research questions, sampling techniques, data collection, data analysis, issues concerning human subjects and research ethics, and challenges associated with conducting research in real-world contexts. The analysis component of the course provides an understanding of statistical methodology used to collect and interpret data found in research as well as how to read and interpret data collection instruments. Lecture 3 (Fall, Spring).

This course provides students that are new to the PPRT program an opportunity to develop an understanding of the school’s research activities. The students will become more knowledgeable about the Print Media program, career options, and exit strategies including thesis, capstone and culminating experience. Relevant topics including finding an advisor, required documentation, and policies regarding program completion and Co-op, as well as school policies and procedures relating to the successful completion of the PPRT program. Seminar 1 (Fall).

This course covers fundamentals of color measurement, color management system, and color reproduction technology for color matching and color image reproduction. Emphases are placed on CIE colorimetry, device calibration and characterization, and color management systems. (Students cannot take and receive credit for this course if they have taken MAAT-544.) Lab 2, Lecture 2 (Fall).

This course provides students with the opportunity to learn the concepts and applications of digital printing. The course examines the technology of several major digital print engines and compares digital printing to conventional print processes. The economics and application of specific digital printing processes are examined from a workflow perspective. This course is cross-listed with MAAT-541; students may receive credit for MAAT-541 or PPRT-641, not both. (Not if MAAT-541) Lab 3, Lecture 2 (Fall).

This course is designed to expose students to all the elements needed to execute media projects across platforms. Students will learn concepts in project management as it applies to leading cross media projects and teams. Concepts and tools necessary for the implementation of a cross media workflow will be discussed and reinforced with hands-on exercises. Additionally, content management and industry standards and practices such as color management, asset management, and image optimization for output will be studied and applied through the context of cross media workflows. Lab 2, Lecture 2 (Spring).

Students will evaluate the differences between standards and specifications, and comprehend their respective roles in various graphic production processes. Governing bodies and the processes involved in standards creation are addressed. Relevant information and metrics are reviewed, and students will analyze and prescribe the standard(s) most relevant to particular production or research settings, as well as discuss the interrelationships and dependences of standards and process-specific specifications. Lecture 3 (Spring).

This course offers an in depth study of the materials used in graphic communication. Students will learn the chemical and physical properties associated with consumables required by processes studied in the course in order to obtain an understanding necessary to make informed decisions about their use and application, with an emphasis on safety concerns. Lab 2, Lecture 2 (Spring).

To conduct research on a topic relevant to the graphic arts industry. Topic must be approved by a committee comprising graduate faculty and an advisor. (Prerequisite: GRCS-701 or equivalent course.) Thesis (Fall, Spring, Summer).

The culminating experience provides students the opportunity to combine and incorporate learnings gained in coursework and other experiences and apply this knowledge in a pragmatic undertaking relevant to the graphic communication and allied industries. Topic must be approved course instructor. (Prerequisite: GRCS-701 or equivalent course.) Lecture 3 (Fall).

The capstone course provides students the opportunity to combine and incorporate learnings gained in coursework and other experiences and apply this knowledge in a written capstone project relevant to the graphic communication and allied industries. Topic must be approved course instructor. (Prerequisite: GRCS-701 or equivalent course.) Project 3 (Fall).