Graphic Communications

GC 115

Introduction to Computer Art

Prerequisite: None

6 lab hrs per week: 3 hrs credit

This studio course introduces students to the history and use of computer applications in the visual arts. Students learn to generate, combine, and manipulate traditional and contemporary visual ideas using both raster paint/photo retouching programs and professional quality vector drawing programs. (same as ART 115)

 

GC 151 (IAI:ART 918)

Principles of Graphic Design

Prerequisite: GC 115 or ART 115 or concurrent registration

6 lab hrs per week: 3 hrs credit

Students are introduced to theoretical and practical aspects of visual communication. Techniques, processes, and terminology of graphic design are covered.

 

GC 154

Typography

Prerequisite: GC 151

1 lecture, 2 lab hrs per week: 2 hrs credit

This course investigates the effective use of type in visual design. Students experiment with the creation of original fonts using digital applications along with some traditional methods.

 

GC 156

Design Software Workshop: Special Topics

Prerequisite: None

1 lecture, 2 lab hrs per week: 2 hrs credit (may be repeated 3 times)

This course provides orientation, concentration, and practical application of a specific computer imaging software programs. Each workshop features one of six leading software packages identified by graphic design professionals.

 

GC 160

Design for Publishing

Prerequisite: GC 115 or ART 115

1 lecture, 4 lab hrs per week: 3 hrs credit

This course focuses on design opportunities in publishing and teaches students how to develop newsletters, ads, catalogs, and presentations.

 

GC 162

Introduction to Web Site Development

Prerequisite: None

1 lecture, 4 lab hrs per week: 3 hrs credit

This course introduces professional Web site creation and management using basic features of Web design software. Students apply basic principles of mass communication; translate copy, sound, and still and moving images into the Web environment; use design principles to develop story boards, site maps, and navigation structures; and upload and maintain a Web site. Web-related legal and ethical issues are covered. Successful completion prepares students to pass exams leading to various Certified Internet Webmaster (CIW) credentials. (same as ITWEB 103)

 

GC 171

Illustration

Prerequisite: GC 151 (recommended)

1 lecture, 4 lab hrs per week: 3 hrs credit

Offered fall term only

In this studio environment students learn to draw controlled illustrations with confidence. Emphasis is placed on perception and rendering ability, with a variety of techniques and media. Digital and traditional media are used.

 

GC 175

Animation Techniques

Prerequisite: GC 115 or ART 115

1 lecture, 4 lab hrs per week: 3 hrs credit

This course introduces the concepts, processes, and history of animation and covers both traditional and two-dimensional computer- based animation techniques. It incorporates the use of drawn, vector and bit-mapped formats as a means of generating animated sequences.

 

GC 182

Digital Video

Prerequisite: GC 115 or ART 115

1 lecture, 2 lab hrs per week: 2 hrs credit

This course covers the theory and practical techniques required to create and produce digital video. Computer software and production tools are used.

 

GC 185

Digital Sound

Prerequisite: GC 115 or ART 115

1 lecture, 2 lab hrs per week: 2 hrs credit

Students use digitized sounds, traditional foley effects, general midi music and dubbed effects to develop sound tracks for film, video, and multimedia. The use of professional sound and editing techniques is emphasized. This is a studio course in which the primary emphasis is development of a student’s portfolio.

 

GC 262

Flash/Interface Design

Prerequisite: GC 151; ITWEB 103; or GC 162 recommended

1 lecture, 4 lab hrs per week: 3 hrs credit

This studio course develops students’ understanding of interactive Web and interface design with an understanding of graphic design and interface design principles. Students develop an integrated and consistent interface for a Web site using graphic programs including, but not limited to, Dreamweaver, Flash, and Photoshop. Students practice extensive use of scripting and programming with an emphasis on using professional design techniques and standards. Sound, video, animation, and interactivity are combined in interactive work. The primary emphasis of this course is development of students’ portfolios. Writing appropriate to the profession is required. (same as ITWEB 203)

 

GC 265

Interactive Design Project

Prerequisite: GC 162

1 lecture, 4 lab hrs per week: 3 hrs credit

This course develops students’ ability to work as part of a creative team. Students develop a group multimedia project using professional management techniques and standards. Sound, video, animation, and interactivity are used to create an interactive work. This is a studio course in which the primary emphasis is development of a student’s portfolio.

 

GC 287

Professional Design

Prerequisite: GC 160

1 lecture, 4 lab hrs per week: 3 hrs credit

This course concentrates on advanced projects in computer image manipulation and design with emphasis on quality print output, film recording, and other methods of production. Use of flatbed and film scanner techniques are also covered.

 

GC 298

Independent Visual Study

Prerequisite: GC 151; consent of instructor

1 lecture, 4 lab hrs per week: 3 hrs credit

This course is an investigation of independent visual problems as they relate to student-generated projects which require advanced research and development.

 

GC 299

Internship/Seminar

Prerequisite: Minimum 12 credit hrs in ART, GC; consent of instructor

1 lecture, 15 lab hrs per week: 4 hrs credit (variable credit)

This internship and seminar provides an opportunity for students to earn credit while working in a graphic design related area. Formalized student-employer agreements identify objectives, work plan, and guidelines for evaluation.