Course Descriptions

GRDS 201 Introduction to Graphic Design
This survey course combines studio work with classroom instruction. Fundamental components of design theory and typography are incorporated with problem definition to provide students with valuable experience in the ideation, execution and presentation of projects. Students use creative thinking to solve communication problems. Lectures and visual media provide a broad introduction to professional opportunities. Prerequisites: DSGN 101, DRAW 101.

GRDS 203 Graphic Design Techniques
This studio course fully explores hand skills by using tools, techniques, procedures and presentations to produce professional graphic design. Students set a standard of quality design work that continues throughout the graphic design program in each specialized course that follows. Prerequisite: GRDS 201.

GRDS 205 Typography I
Through lectures, demonstrations and studio work students are introduced to all aspects of Typography from its historical precedents to its current use. Creative thinking is encouraged, along with prescribed techniques and media. Prerequisites: CMPA 100 or CMPA 110, and ADVE 130 or BCST 130 or GRDS 201 or ITGM 130.

GRDS 229 History of Graphic Design
This course surveys the pivotal events and achievements that led to the current state of graphic communication. The unceasing quest to give form to ideas is traced from the pictographs painted on cave walls to the latest imaginative designs. Through lectures, videotapes, discussions, presentations and research, students are introduced to the creative thinkers, important innovations and breakthrough technologies that have shaped the evolution of visual communication. Prerequisite: ARTH 110.

GRDS 233 Vector and Raster Graphics
This course provides students with skills needed to produce vector and raster-based graphics. Students gain a thorough understanding of the nature of vector and raster-based digital file development, as well as an indepth study of the applications used to create them. Projects and assignments focus on an exploration and understanding of the applications, applying color, tools, techniques and printing options. Prerequisite: CMPA 100 or CMPA 110.

GRDS 243 Digital Page and Web Graphics
In this course, students focus on making pages, both for print and Internet environments. Correct usage of the appropriate software tools, terminology and theory of page layout are emphasized and covered in sufficient detail to understand the differences between the two layout strategies. Multiple-page documents/Web sites, media incorporation, output and publishing techniques for the two environments are the core concepts of this class. Readings, exercises and assignments focus on the acquisition of these skills. Prerequisite: CMPA 100 or CMPA 110.

GRDS 348 Graphic Design Studio I
In this course, students develop ideational, creative and methodological strategies for problem solving. The focus is on improving design knowledge and skills, as well as introducing students to project management disciplines. Prerequisites: CMPA 100 or CMPA 110, and GRDS 205.

GRDS 353 Typography II
Through readings, writing assignments, lectures and studio projects, students explore a history of typography and its relationship to cultural, geo-socio-political, and psychological dynamics of information exchange. The ideas of intellectual impact, complex hierarchy, active/passive readership and emotional expression are explored with the emphasis on user experience in typographic design. Prerequisite: GRDS 348.

GRDS 358 Production Design
This course focuses on technical proficiency and the business components of production. Students produce projects from comprehensives to print-ready digital mechanicals. Prerequisite: GRDS 348.

GRDS 370 Information Design
This course addresses visual problem solving and emphasizes methods of translating complex data into clear, visually dynamic solutions. Topics include: corporate communication systems, publication, way-finding, inter-action design, etc. Prerequisite: GRDS 358 or permission of department chair.

GRDS 372 Corporate Identity
Creative, ideational, image-making, design, digital and traditional skills are necessary in this course to meet rigorous conceptual/visual standards pertinent to creating a brand and/or a company's identity. Through a few complex projects and numerous graphic design formats and applications, all major aspects of visual identity are emphasized and developed: logotypes, typographic sets, color palettes, photographic and illustration styles, and appropriate project presentation formats. Prerequisite: GRDS 358.

GRDS 374 Publication Graphics
This course examines the graphic designer's role in the layout and design of publications. Lectures and studio work cover historical and current practices and technologies used to produce multipage publications. Students produce visualizations for several publications using the elements of layout with typography and art. Prerequisite: GRDS 358.

GRDS 376 The Business of Graphic Design
Through lectures, demonstrations, research and studio work, this course presents an in-depth study of the business aspects of the graphic design profession. Common design problems are emphasized, including pricing, estimates, invoices, client relations and professional business conduct. Prerequisite: GRDS 358.

GRDS 378 Trademark and Logo Design
Through examination of corporate identity creation, this course focuses on the criteria for an effective logotype and how design firms attach meaning to a single word through typography and color. These issues are explored through a series of assignments totally devoted to the design of effective trademarks and logotypes. Students are introduced to the major identity firms through research and written analysis. Prerequisite: GRDS 358.

GRDS 380 Alternative Design Approaches
This course challenges students to address unusual design problems through conceptual and artistic innovation. Alternative uses of new media and traditional techniques are explored. Prerequisite: GRDS 358.

GRDS 382 Design for Multimedia
This course concentrates on educating students in the development of effective interfaces for electronic media employing theories and techniques of multimedia, interaction design and graphic design. Students explore the use of sound, motion, video and kinetic typography in their solutions. Prerequisite: GRDS 243.

GRDS 384 Web Design
This course concentrates on the design, development, implementation, testing and updating of effective interfaces based on principles of graphic design, interactivity and usability. Through lectures, in-class workshops and coursework, students are educated in a variety of visual, navigational and structural approaches. CUSS, navigation systems, visual hierarchy, basic animations, image preparation, and file transferring protocols are among topics covered. Emphasis is placed on conceptual development and structure, interactivity and design aesthetics. Prerequisites: GRDS 233, GRDS 243.

GRDS 386 Package Design
In this course, students explore 3-D form and surface graphics by designing containers for a variety of products and construct 3-D prototypes. Prerequisite: GRDS 358.

GRDS 388 Interactive Web Animation
This course focuses on educating students to develop complex graphical user interfaces and animation. Students explore that software and its Action Script programming language while working with navigational elements, animated graphics and rich multimedia content, including sound and video. Current and future directions of Web interactivity and Web animations are addressed, with a focus on cross-platform development, dynamic content integration, browser compatibility, bandwidth limitations and the online distribution of interactive Web content. Prerequisite: ANIM 342 or ELDS 325 or GRDS 384 or ITGM 353 or ITGM 355.

GRDS 390 Web Site Management
This course is designed to educate students in the development and management of large, complex Web sites. Information architecture, site mapping and navigational development are introduced, with an emphasis on managing dynamic Web content. Among topics covered are application development, content management systems, cross-platform compatibility, online transactions, Internet security, and the online distribution and updating of Web content. Prerequisite: ELDS 325 or GRDS 384 or ITGM 353.

GRDS 392 Exhibit and Environmental Graphics
Students explore the ways in which Exhibition and Environmental Graphics enhance the experience of the user community through interactivity with form and space. Working individually, and in teams, students design and build scale models of their concepts for assigned projects. Prerequisites: GRDS 353, GRDS 358.

GRDS 394 Design and Technology: Contemporary Issues in Visual Communication
This course explores technological, theoretical, cultural, social, political and economic issues affecting the field of graphic design. Students analyze the current state of the field of graphic design as a means of visual communication to employ effective design solutions for issues and topics relevant to contemporary design culture. Prerequisites: GRDS 229, GRDS 353.

GRDS 400 Graphic Design Studio II
This course expands on previous graphic design knowledge and skills, offering students the opportunity to work on a major self-initiated design project. The course emphasizes research and analysis, and the design processes that lead to creative conceptualization and final design solutions. Students are expected to demonstrate sophisticated design decisions and appropriate design solutions that demonstrate a high level of expertise and achievement. Prerequisites: Two GRDS electives.

GRDS 406 Special Topics in Graphic Design
The topic of this course varies from quarter to quarter. Each seminar focuses on various issues in the field of graphic design and allows students to pursue individual projects related to the subject of the course. Prerequisites: Vary according to topic.

GRDS 408 Graphic Design Portfolio
This course focuses on students' job-seeking portfolios through lectures, demonstrations and studio work. Existing projects are refined and gaps are filled in new projects. All projects must meet the most professional standards, with emphasis on quality and job-related subject matter. Prerequisites: Two GRDS electives.

GRDS 451 Graphic Design Seminar
This course is conducted as a study trip to top New York design firms that have made important contributions to the design field and to the profession, both nationally and internationally. Exceptional graphic design is viewed throughout Manhattan, particularly at the gallery of the American Institute of Graphic Arts. Students keep journals on all activities and participate in end-of-day discussions. Prerequisite: GRDS 348.

GRDS 703 Digital Production
This course addresses advanced techniques in digital image creation, management and distribution. Students explore advanced topics and techniques that are utilized throughout the electronic design industry. Students explore challenging topics such as electronic production of pdf-, vector- and raster-based files including file management, manipulation, transfer, storage and usage in design/e-production scenarios.

GRDS 705 Design Methodologies
This course focuses on developing creative problem-solving methodologies for graphic design. Students explore the relationship between theoretical constructs of creativity and the pragmatics of client-identified parameters. The course facilitates student development of a personal visual communication style through rapid visualization techniques.

GRDS 709 Typography Studio I
Students explore and utilize a diverse range of typographic principles and theories within the framework of various print-related applications. Critical analysis of message, meaning, form and context directs students in their creation of innovative print-based typographical explorations.

GRDS 715 Print Studio I
This course explores the theories, strategies and processes of developing a print-based brand image. Through lectures, independent research and studio work, students implement complex design systems created to provide a unified and unique presentation of image-building content. Prerequisite: GRDS 709.

GRDS 720 Digital Studio I
This course focuses on the design and management of Internet sites. Students are expected to be familiar with HTML, XHTML and industry-standard Internet design authoring and imaging applications. Students review and critique Web sites from cultural, informational, aesthetic, ethical, design and functional perspectives, as well as explore, assess and implement development techniques that facilitate Internet sites' overall usability and compliance with recommended Internet design standards. Prerequisite: GRDS 709.

GRDS 726 The Role of Graphic Design in Social Awareness
This course examines the vital role of visual communication within the dialog of a society, specifically regarding issues that affect the well being of its cultural integrity. Ethical considerations of the graphic design discipline are explored through lectures, independent research and the creative development of bodies of work that attempt to address the morals that inform, guide and shape a culture. Prerequisite: ADVE 709 or GRDS 703 or GRDS 705.

GRDS 730 3-D Graphics Studio
Students explore theoretical and practical applications of experience and interaction design through projects addressing form, physical space and tactile response. Course content consists of readings, lectures and assignments, which interpret, involve and transform human engagement with the three-dimensional realm. Projects evolve from conceptual origins and progress to constructed physical objects. Prerequisites: GRDS 703 or GRDS 705, GRDS 709, GRDS 715.

GRDS 748 Graphic Design M.A. Final Project
This course focuses on each student's personal design vision. Students develop a professional portfolio that includes design narratives and a substantial body of work. Students complete and prepare a graduate level portfolio inclusive of print/interactive/time-space-based media projects and provide a written exploration of the field. All M.A. candidates are required to prepare this final project and participate in a graduate annual exhibition. Prerequisites: GRDS 715, GRDS 720.

GRDS 755 Typography Studio II
This course focuses on the integration of kinetic media and typographic values. Topics such as sequencing, rhythm, color, texture, space and sound are explored and applied to visual communication projects. Contemporary and historical forms, as well as kinetic theories are analyzed and studied. Prerequisites: GRDS 703 or GRDS 705, GRDS 709.

GRDS 756 Corporate Identity
Students in this course examine the contemporary issues and challenges that corporations face in communicating to their stakeholders with consistency and clarity. Through research and readings, students shall establish the criteria for assessing the appropriateness and effectiveness of a corporate Image, and then create a corporate identity based on the strategic positioning they define.

GRDS 758 Publication Design
Students explore the history and methods of publication design and examine the processes involved in coordinating art and typography with verbal and visual content. The roles of the designer and art director are discussed.

GRDS 759 Print Studio II
In this course students develop creative strategies for visual problem solving, and investigate the intricacies and innovative potential of print-based design solutions. Students explore conceptual and theoretical issues surrounding 21st-century print media. Along with focusing on effective design methodologies and reinforcing previous graphic design skills and knowledge, students are expected to demonstrate and practice effective project management skills, which demonstrate an understanding of research's value in developing both form and content. Prerequisites: GRDS 703 or GRDS 705, GRDS 715.

GRDS 760 Poster Design
Students explore the specific skills necessary to design posters as a unique means of communication. Working with large formats, students develop advanced skills in critical thinking, research, development of concepts and content, analysis and editing, and technical execution.

GRDS 763 Digital Studio II
Focusing on the theories and principles of human/computer interaction and interface design, this course also includes the practical application thereof. Students explore the relationships between form, content and function as well as develop media-rich interactive presentations for Internet and Intranet delivery. Prerequisites: GRDS 703 or 705, GRDS 715, GRDS 720, GRDS 755.

GRDS 765 Typeface Design
Exploring the realm of typeface design from a historical and contemporary perspective, students have the opportunity to develop their own designs. The created typefaces are based on research into the history and cultural, social, political, cognitive, ethical, and aesthetic contexts of typography. Prerequisites: GRDS 705, GRDS 709.

GRDS 767 Advertising Campaigns
This course emphasizes teamwork and group effort to create effective advertising campaigns. Students experience the network of ideas and research necessary to reach the audience targeted by the manufacturer or service organization. Students assume roles including copywriter, account executive and artist in order to produce creative and marketable ideas.

GRDS 768 Environmental Graphics
By examining the history of graphics, students are expected to develop an understanding of the role of environmental graphics in the life of the average citizen. Design projects include coordinated transportation graphics, posters, outdoor advertising, international and architectural signage and graphics, and materials specifications. The course also addresses are the legal implications of regulatory ordinances and zoning restrictions.

GRDS 769 Semiotics of Visual Communication
A theoretical and interdisciplinary analysis of visual arts and design (and the ways they communicate ideas and values) is presented in this elective course. Students explore the history and elementary notions of the theories of sign and information in order to acquire an understanding of how to apply them to complex visual communication issues (aesthetic, cognitive, and ethical). Prerequisite: GRDS 709.

GRDS 770 Package Design
This course focuses on 3-D design as it applies to product containers. Type, layout, design and form are fully explored to create commercial packaging. All design problems are carried through from concept to 3-D packaging.

GRDS 772 Graphic Design Self-promotion
This course focuses on each student's personal design vision and the many ways students can promote their design abilities beyond the singular design problem. An emphasis on appropriate and successful self-promotion highlights the individual design approach. Students are also expected to learn to develop a professional portfolio.

GRDS 773 Portfolio Design
This studio course explores various ways in which designers can best promote their talents. All possible vehicles, including portfolio, r??sum?? and promotional materials are addressed, with the result being a substantial body of work that may be used as a job-seeking tool. Experimentation and unique approaches are encouraged during this process, but clarity of message and technical proficiency are the top priorities. Prerequisite: GRDS 759.

GRDS 775 Typeface Design Promotion
The course explores the realm of typeface design from a contemporary and avant-garde perspective. Students design typefaces based on their personal approach and style. Students have the opportunity to use typeface creation software and develop a presentation/promotional package for their typefaces. Prerequisites: GRDS 705, GRDS 709, GRDS 755, GRDS 765.

GRDS 780 Special Topics in Graphic Design
Working with a faculty adviser, students pursue a graphic design project of particular interest and significance. Students must present a proposal supported by research for approval. The course involves group instruction and critiques as well as individual projects.

GRDS 790 Graphic Design M.F.A. Thesis
All graphic design M.F.A. students develop an original body of work, culminating in a final exhibition accompanied by a written component.