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Graphic Design

Course Code
GDES 203  Credits
Title Introduction to Graphic Design 
Prerequisite ART 125  
Course Outline Course Outline 
Description Studio inquiry into the nature of graphic design. Including: Visual problem-solving, introduction to typography, symbols, lettermarks, logotypes, publication design, information design, three-dimensional design, as well as client/designer relations, studio operations and production procedures. 



Course Code
GDES 303  Credits
Title Typography 
Prerequisite GDES 203 
Course Outline Course Outline 
Description This course will cover the fundamentals of typography as they relate to the graphic design profession. Beginning with the history and origins of the alphabet, to classic type families, to working with type measurements and terminology, concluding with contemporary typographic design. Traditional to experimental typography will be explored. 



Course Code
GDES 304  Credits
Title Experience Design 
Prerequisite GDES 203 
Course Outline Course Outline 
Description Experience Design will explore visual semiotics and the interaction between the viewer and the visual design. How metaphors can help to visually explain ideas to a user/viewer. A focus will be on using interaction design, information architecture, and user research. The application of research, analysis, and intuition. 



Course Code
GDES 305  Credits
Title Visual Systems and Brand Identity 
Prerequisite GDES 203 and GDES 303 
Course Outline Course Outline 
Description Visual systems and brand identity will begin with an introduction in designing visual systems. From there it will explore how to create a brand identity and the implementation of the brand strategy. 



Course Code
GDES 306  Credits
Title Motion Design: Typography and Visual Narratives 
Prerequisite GCOM 255 
Course Outline Course Outline 
Description This course is aimed at expanding students' typographic, visual and aural narrative through the use of time-based composition, animation and sound in a studio setting. Studio practice is supplemented by examination of historical, theoretical, and perceptual aspects of motion graphics. Prerequisite: 304B Graphic Design Studio. 



Course Code
GDES 307  Credits
Title Advanced Typographic Design 
Prerequisite GDES 203 and GDES 303 
Course Outline Course Outline 
Description Advanced studies in typography. The course will expand on GDES 303 and the use of typography from practical to experimental. Typography is everywhere from print, to web, to time and motion. Students will further study and analyze typography to learn what is appropriate, and not, in design solutions. They will explore when clear communication is required, and when to use type to visually entertain. 



Course Code
GDES 375  Credits
Title The History of Graphic Design 
Prerequisite ART 233 ART 234 GDES 203  
Course Outline Course Outline 
Description Since the beginning of time humans have developed methods of communication and ways to record the visual world around them. These visual recordings evolved into language and communication. From cave drawings, Sumerian scribes, Egyptian artisans, medieval illuminators, printers, to today's mobile apps the profession of graphic design has evolved. This is an in-depth study into the history of visual communication.  



Course Code
GDES 390  Credits 1-4 
Title Topics in Graphic Design 
Course Outline Course Outline 
Description Studio, seminar or discussion of topics not included in other graphic design courses. This is a topical course and may be repeated when the topic changes. 



Course Code
GDES 469  Credits 1-6 
Title Internship 
Course Outline Course Outline 
Description Students will seek and secure an internship with a professional design studio. The internship should provide a learning experience under the mentorship of a design professional.  



Course Code
GDES 485  Credits
Title Scotland Tour 
Course Outline Course Outline 
Description This is a summer tour to Scotland for approximately a three week time period with a fourth week spent in Amsterdam, Netherlands. The time in Scotland is spent exploring the rich cultural history of the country as well as contemporary trends in art and design. It is expected that the student will complete extensive research into Scottish culture, history, and styles of art and design before the trip. This knowledge will be helpful in the daily trips to various locations within the country. The last part of the trip is usually spent in Amsterdam, Netherlands which also has a rich culture and history. During the trip the student is expected to keep a sketchbook, gather research materials, and photograph/film for further development of their final creative project. 



Course Code
GDES 490  Credits 1-4 
Title Topics in Graphic Design 
Course Outline Course Outline 
Description Studio, seminar or discussion of topics not included in other art courses. Up to four credits may be applied to the major. This is a topical course and may be repeated when the topic changes. 



Course Code
GDES 492A  Credits
Title BFA Senior Project I 
Prerequisite GDES 303, GDES 304, GDES 305, GDES 306, GDES 307 
Course Outline Course Outline 
Description This course and GDES 492B are used as the capstone experience in producing a senior project, exhibition, and the development of a portfolio. 



Course Code
GDES 492B  Credits
Title BFA Senior Project II 
Prerequisite GDES 303, GDES 304, GDES 305, GDES 306, GDES 307 
Course Outline Course Outline 
Description This course and GDES 492A are used as the capstone experience in producing a senior project, exhibition, and the development of a portfolio. 



Course Code
GDES 494  Credits 1-8 
Title Mentored Research in Graphic Design 
Course Outline Course Outline 
Description Guided research designed to increase the professionalism of the student's creative work in all aspects of design production. The course will culminate in the production of a creative portfolio of superior quality. 



Course Code
GDES 497  Credits 1-6 
Title Independent Study in Graphic Design 
Course Outline Course Outline 
Description Individualized instruction in media not regularly offered in studio concentrations.