Undergraduate Graphic Design +

Course Descriptions

These undergraduate courses are available for both the B.F.A. and B.S. degrees.

Undergraduate Addendum to the Syllabi

ART 205

Introduction to Graphics Software

3 sem. hrs.

An introduction to graphic software with specific application on the Macintosh system. The focus will be on applied use of programs for image editing, document layout, and digital graphics manipulation. Satisfies the core requirements for art education, studio art, and graphic design.
(Lab fees required).

In-Person Syllabus Online Syllabus

ART 209

Digital Animation

3 sem. hrs.

This course is an introduction to the study of 2D animation in a digital workspace. Giving students a working knowledge of animation techniques necessary to design sequences for professional use. It examines basic concepts in the production, design, and software needed to produce stop-motion and character animation. Assignments will have an emphasis on technical skills, animation principles, and presentation.
(Lab fee required)

In-Person Syllabus

ART 215

Graphic Design I

3 sem. hrs.

Prerequisite(s): ART 101 and 102, 205 and/or department chair approval

This course explores typographic forms and their relation to images and print production. Emphasis is placed on design history, principles or visual design, and digital media. Projects in this studio class will emphasize application of graphic design principles to typography and page layout.
(Lab fees required).

In-Person Syllabus

ART 216

Graphic Design II

3 sem. hrs.

Prerequisite(s): ART 215

An introduction to graphic design practices and technology with emphasis on planning, design fundamentals, and execution. Projects in this studio class will focus on basic graphic design problem solving, printing, and presentation. (Lab fees required).

In-Person Syllabus

ART 315

Graphic Design III

3 sem. hrs.

Prerequisite(s): ART 216

Advanced application of graphic design fundamentals and computer technology with emphasis on advertising, publication, and project production. Projects in this studio class will focus on graphic design problem solving for business and social needs as well as pre-press problem solving.
(Lab fees required).

In-Person Syllabus

ART 316

Graphic Design IV

3 sem. hrs.

Prerequisite(s): ART 315

Focuses on technical proficiency and file preparation as well as the business components of production. Students produce projects from comprehensives to print-ready digital mechanicals. Projects in this studio class include file preparation, trouble-shooting, pricing, estimates, client relations, and professional business conduct. (lab fees required)

In-Person Syllabus

ART 317

Digital Illustration

3 sem. hrs.

Prerequisite(s): ART 203 & ART 205

This course examines the use of the computer as an artistic medium and tool for illustrators. Techniques using both vector- and raster-based editing software will be explored; as well as a review of the historical development and current directions of digital illustration. Assignments will have an emphasis on concept, creativity, technical achievement, and presentation.
(Lab fee required).

In-Person Syllabus

ART 403

Illustration

3 sem. hrs.

Prerequisite(s): ART 102, ART 204

A studio exploration of illustration techniques and their applications with an emphasis on in-depth portfolio projects. (Lab fee required).

In-Person Syllabus

ART 414

Web Design I

3 sem. hrs.

Prerequisite(s): ART 205

An introduction to web authoring software with specific application on the Macintosh system. The focus will be on applied use of website development programs with static website development. (Lab fee required).

In-Person Syllabus

ART 415

Graphic Design Portfolio I

3 sem. hrs.

Prerequisite(s): ART 216

Initiation of professional-level portfolio development projects in the graphic design field from concept to distribution with individual flexibility for professional development. (Lab fee required).

In-Person Syllabus

ART 416

Graphic Design Portfolio II

3 sem. hrs.

Prerequisite(s): ART 415

As a continuation of its prerequisite, this course is an intensive lab primarily focused on continuing to hone the graphic design student’s portfolio for professional review at the end of the term as well as learning job-seeking protocols. (Lab fee required).

In-Person Syllabus