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An in-depth introduction to communication design theory, this course examines theoretical perspectives of design practice within the larger discourse of design and visual culture. Communication models, the nature of representation, the dimensions of context, and semiotics are explored through critical readings in key documents from the early decades of the twentieth century to the present.

An in-depth introduction to communication design theory, this course examines theoretical perspectives of design practice within the larger discourse of design and visual culture. Communication models, the nature of representation, the dimensions of context, and semiotics are explored through critical readings in key documents from the early decades of the twentieth century to the present.

This course offers rotating topics in the graphic design field. Current topics include signage and way-finding systems, exhibition design, lettering, experimental typography, typeface design and others. (Students can take this twice with a different topic.)

This course offers rotating topics in the graphic design field. Current topics include signage and way-finding systems, exhibition design, lettering, experimental typography, typeface design and others. (Students can take this twice with a different topic.)

This course is designed to prepare the student for entry into the professional world of illustration. The development of a portfolio demonstrating a high level of skill and a personal style, as well as the ability to discuss the work in formal and conceptual terms, is the primary focus. Additionally, the student will be introduced to a variety of professional practices and develop a familiarity with the local, regional, and national scenes. The portfolio contents should demonstrate the student’s versatility and advanced skills while demonstrating consistency in presentation. This course is broken into 4-course goals: Portfolio Development, Professional Skills, Business Practices, and Authorship.

This course is designed to prepare the student for entry into the professional world of illustration. The development of a portfolio demonstrating a high level of skill and a personal style, as well as the ability to discuss the work in formal and conceptual terms, is the primary focus. Additionally, the student will be introduced to a variety of professional practices and develop a familiarity with the local, regional, and national scenes. The portfolio contents should demonstrate the student’s versatility and advanced skills while demonstrating consistency in presentation. This course is broken into 4-course goals: Portfolio Development, Professional Skills, Business Practices, and Authorship.

Students will learn advanced techniques for design, illustration, and production on the computer using vector graphics. Students are exposed to professional tools using software such as Adobe Illustrator on the Macintosh operating system.

Students will learn advanced techniques for design, illustration, and production on the computer using vector graphics. Students are exposed to professional tools using software such as Adobe Illustrator on the Macintosh operating system.

User Experience (UX) Design is an essential component in developing websites, applications, and any other type of product intended to be used by people. This course examines the leading concepts of user—centered design through readings, discussions and assignments. Practical concerns include evaluation of technology needed to create or maintain websites; and exploration of a step-by-step process for creating products using flow charts, wireframes and prototypes. Students will also gain an understanding of issues surrounding usability on the Web, knowledge management and Web strategy.

User Experience (UX) Design is an essential component in developing websites, applications, and any other type of product intended to be used by people. This course examines the leading concepts of user—centered design through readings, discussions and assignments. Practical concerns include evaluation of technology needed to create or maintain websites; and exploration of a step-by-step process for creating products using flow charts, wireframes and prototypes. Students will also gain an understanding of issues surrounding usability on the Web, knowledge management and Web strategy.