Curriculum
The following are the required courses for this major. Students who attend Orientation and meet with the Education Department can obtain personalized academic counseling to complete the program. Transfer credits, changes in curriculum, and other factors may affect the academic plan for individual students. The FIDM Education Department can provide additional information.
Associate of Arts, Professional Designation (A.A.)
GNST 2220
History of Design
UNITS: 3
An exploration of important developments from the Industrial Revolution to the digital age in the history of decorative arts, architecture and ornaments, interiors and furniture, textiles, products, and graphic design.
GNST 2370
Applied Statistics+
UNITS: 3
This course emphasizes the understanding and application of statistical methodology. Major topics include descriptive statistics, probability, sampling, inferences of sampling, means and proportions,measures of central tendency, correlation, regression,hypothesis testing, and methods for displaying,describing, and producing data. Technology applications facilitate in-class activities.
GRPH 1050
Digital Imaging
UNITS: 3
Students dive deep into the use of Adobe Photoshop to create high-quality image enhancements and photo composites. Students learn additional toolsets and explore more advanced features and improve their imaging skills. Prerequisite: TECH 1100
GRPH 1150
Type & Layout
UNITS: 3
This course introduces students to document layout using Adobe InDesign. Students learn the tools, menu bar, and palettes as they begin designing single and multi-page layouts. Through design exercises, students examine how the use of grids serve as a structure for combining type and image.
GRPH 1300
Computer Illustration
UNITS: 3
In this course students continue to build on their illustration skills with vector drawing techniques. From tracing artwork to creating entertaining infographics, more advanced uses of Adobe Illustrator are explored including the use of Libraries and custom palettes.
GRPH 1420
2-D Design
UNITS: 3
This course introduces the formal elements of line, shape, color, texture, and composition as well as the graphic principles of balance, scale, emphasis, repetition, and unity. Students also explore all aspects of two-dimensional design and imagery, which is essential to achieve a solid design.
GRPH 1720
Typography
UNITS: 3
This course explores the fundamental traditions of typography combined with computer technology. It provides the foundation from which the students can develop both an understanding of typography and a personal aesthetic.
GRPH 2050
Brand X
UNITS: 3
Students investigate the visual and physical personality of a current brand and develop an effective visual identity for it, utilizing all applicable marketing materials.
Prerequisites: GRPH 1450, GRPH 1720
GRPH 2120
Publication Design
UNITS: 3
This course helps students craft a variety of image and text-based content into a harmonious and legible design in catalogue and magazine formats for both print and digital delivery. Prerequisites: GRPH 1150, GRPH 1720, GRPH 2780
GRPH 2230
UX Design
UNITS: 3
This course offers a practical introduction to UX (user experience) design emphasizing the importance of research in the design process. Inspired by this research, students develop solutions for a variety of applications centered around a specific set of users. Wire-framing is used to illustrate design concepts and students learn how to create a clickable prototype.
GRPH 2400
Graphics/Licensing (6 hours)*
UNITS: 3
This course introduces students to product licensing through the development of original characters and their related products. The students create their own intellectual property and present it as a Style Guide. Includes a three (3) hour lab.
GRPH 2470
Motion Graphic Design (6 hours)*
UNITS: 3
Students solve graphic design problems using creative brainstorming, storyboarding, and the integration of media including images, illustrations, text, audio, and video. A hands-on course focused on the design of motion graphics, students learn basic motion graphics principles using Adobe After Effects. The final project demonstrates an understanding of 3-D design, timing, and composition to create an impactful motion graphic. Includes a three (3) hour lab. Prerequisite: GRPH 2230
GRPH 2500
Logo/Symbol Design
UNITS: 3
Students create a logo for a company or product using the elements of design and the psychology of color. They demonstrate understanding through application and usage of identity to create a brand and public awareness. Thumbnails, participation, class critiques.
Prerequisite: GRPH 1420
GRPH 2630
Website Design
UNITS: 3
Students build on their experience with UX design as they develop web and mobile applications. Students begin using HTML and CSS to design their sites while continuing to emphasize research, design, and functionality. Prerequisite: GRPH 2230
GRPH 2680
Graphic Design Portfolio
UNITS: 3
This is an advanced class in portfolio development. Students design, produce, and gain experience presenting their work in a professional working environment. They also write a comprehensive resume and present their portfolios before the class. Prerequisite: GRPH 2500
GRPH 2780
Introduction to Digital Photography
UNITS: 3
This course enhances students appreciation of the skill and creativity of photography by challenging them to produce their own photographic art. Course discussions include terminology, innovations in digital photography, and various experimental processes. The course illustrates the practice of buying commercial photography for fashion, graphic design, and general marketing purposes, including negotiating with art reps, buyout of stock photography, and coordinating photo shoots.
GRPH 2810
Data Visualization
UNITS: 3
In this course, students learn to find the story in data and represent it in a clear, compelling and most of all visual way. Data is complex, overwhelming and doesnt tell a story without the work of a designer. They look at the history of data visualization while also practicing their own ability to visualize increasingly complex information. Special emphasis is paid to using the principles of design to craft a unified, exciting, persuasive data visualization. Prerequisite: GNST 2370
GRPH 2930
Advanced Website Design
UNITS: 3
This course focuses on responsive web design in order to create sites that work on a variety of devices. Students create a complete interactive site from concept to final development. Prerequisite: GRPH 2630
GRPH 2940
Packaging & Prepress Production
UNITS: 3
Creative packaging solutions include product market fit and elegant details. Students learn to incorporate 3-D form, materials, typography, color, and graphics to generate packages for a variety of design challenges. Emphasis is placed on preparing art files for print reproduction including printing techniques (conventional and digital), paper, color, inks, imposition folding, and finishing. Prerequisite: GRPH 2500
SMED 2550
Intellectual Property & Media Law
UNITS: 3
In this course, students examine the law around the creation and distribution of media. This survey introduces students to patent, copyright, trademark, and privacy law with a goal to provide enough information that students can spot issues and know where to turn for help. Through case study, mock court, and mock negotiation, students see the practical application of the law as it relates to their area of study.
Total Units of Credit: 60
* Three (3)-hour lab included in 6 hours.
