Graphic Design | Master Course Outlines | Academics

VAGD201 Graphic Design

3 credits

4050

VAMM100 (C or better) and VAGD101 (C or better)

None

Students work an equal amount of time outside of class each week in the computer lab or at home.

Working from concept to finished artwork, students develop methods and strategies for producing effective graphic design solutions. Formal and practical design concepts, skills, and essential digital applications are covered. Presentation of visual ideas, design principles, typography, prepress and commercial printing technology, and advanced graphic design processes are explored.

Course Learning Goals

Students will:
1. demonstrate competency in the use of various graphic design media and techniques;
2. synthesize visual and verbal information to produce effective designs;
3. apply design principles, typography, and contemporary graphic production processes to solve complex graphic design problems;
4. demonstrate an understanding of the printing and binding processes and digital pre-press requirements; and
5. analyze projects through critiques, oral presentations, and discussions.
Planned Sequence of Topics and/or Learning Activities
1. plan, design, and create projects that demonstrate
2. apply visual thinking to create pictorial, graphic, and verbal symbols
3. apply methods and procedures for production to translate thumbnail sketches into final compositions
4. apply Gestalt principles to address problems based on perception, dynamic balance, type, and color
5. create at least one book project with eight or more pages
6. develop graphic materials related to the creation of an identity (e.g., trademark/logo design, letterhead, advertising, etc.)
Assessment Methods for Course Learning Goals
Student assessment is based on the successful completion of assigned projects, the presentation of projects, and the demonstrated use of appropriate vocabulary in oral critiques.
Reference, Resource, or Learning Materials to be used by Student:
Departmentally-selected text is required. Students are required to do research and reading on relevant topics using library resources, current trade publications, and Internet searches. See course syllabus.