Course Listings
GD225
Typography 2
Units:3
GD223 + GD224
This intermediate course explores the underlying principles and elements of letterforms. Also explored are their usage, various grid-based layout systems, and typographic styles. Assignments emphasize visual representations of complex information through various editorial design formats, and are conceived as a means by which to analyze the semiotic function of text and its aesthetic and phenomenal qualities. Computer applications: Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, and Adobe InDesign.
GD319
Brand Design Strategy 1
Units:3
GD225 + GD226 + GD230
This advanced course requires creative, computational, manual and critical thinking skills to meet conceptual and/or visual standards relevant to a comprehensive and strategic brand identity system. This course includes a comparative analysis of the market and of strategic brand positioning to create a visual identity system (for example, creation of a brand-mark, color palettes, brand expression, brand style through typographic, photographic and illustration styles). Brand strategy solutions will include sample applications (examples include environmental graphic design, transportation, apparel, product, packaging, experiential design).
GD202
User Interface Design 1
Units:3
FD118 + FD123 + FD127 + FD129
This course covers user interface and user experience principles, processes, and application. Students will learn the basic skills of UI/UX in order to design digital products such as mobile apps and responsive websites. The goal of the class is to understand and apply the product development steps; starting with research, concept validation, user-focused designs, to file preparation for web developers/engineers. The course will introduce industry-approved tools and programs.
GD230
Computer Imaging
Units:3
FD160 + FD162 or ((FD127 or FD001 ) + (FD129 or FD002))
This studio course in digital image making will challenge students to create thought-provoking and visually stimulating work while learning how to use the computer as a versatile tool for creation and manipulation. A range of projects will be developed while students consider the role of literal and implicit communication, aesthetics, and emotional impact. Computer applications: Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, and Macromedia Flash (a beginning intro).
GD411
Motion Graphics + Visual Effects
Units:3
FD134 + FD142 + GD230
This course builds on students existing design and typography skills and sets them in motion. Students in this course learn how to communicate messages by combining video, 3d, animation, and sound. This course focuses on Adobe master suite, After Effects, Maya, Sound Booth, and FinalCut Pro. Students will be storyboarding and executing motion graphics pieces that would be used in high definition television and on the web. Topics include typographic design, alpha channels, keys, masks, compositing 2D and 3D graphics, and video compression.
AH334
History of Graphic Design
Units:3
This course examines the emergence of graphic design and the professional designer from 1800 C.E. to the present. Continual conceptual and technological revolution is the essence of this subject and the theme of this course. Required for Graphic Design majors.
FD118
Fund Comp + Color: Digital
Units:2
This course investigates principles of pictorial organization through the relationship of composition and color of visual elements. This includes the study of formal qualities of art; line, shape, value, texture, rhythm, space, balance, proportion, movement, unity, harmony, and tension. Studies of color address properties of hue, value, and intensity, as well as color interactions of harmony, discord, and simultaneous contrast. Special emphasis is given to concepts necessary for visual communication, regardless of media, but this course will utilize digital tools as a way to explore the concepts efficiently and to prepare students for contemporary expectations of commercial art and design professions. Primary software: Adobe Illustrator and Adobe Photoshop.
GD419
Senior Portfolio 2
Units:3
GD418
This course continues to prepare students to enter the professional design industry. Students will create a database of prospective employers in a variety of design-related fields for a self-promotional direct-mail campaign. In accordance with the observed individual needs, students will complete a grand-scale senior thesis project. The emphasis of the senior thesis is for the student to challenge their design and problem-solving skills while developing final portfolio pieces.
GD418
Senior Portfolio 1
Units:3
GD001 + GD312
This course prepares students to enter the professional design industry. Students will create a database of prospective employers in a variety of design-related fields for a self-promotional direct-mail campaign. In accordance with the observed individual needs, students will complete a grand-scale senior thesis project. The emphasis of the senior thesis is for the student to challenge their design and problem-solving skills while developing final portfolio pieces.
GD320
Digital Videography 1
Units:3
FD127 + FD129 + GD275
This course focusses on recording, editing, and compositing digital video files. Concepts and techniques of non-linear editing, compositing layers of computer generated imagery and live action video, special effects, camera movements and cinematic points of view, and design of titling and motion graphics will be covered. The work of professional animators, directors, and producers will be screened and discussed. This course covers the operation of video-capable devices and camcorders, including exposure control, use of lighting, and shot types. Techniques for working with title graphics and sound will also be demonstrated and practiced.
GD314
Package Design 1
Units:3
GD225 + GD226 + gd230
This advanced course requires conceptual, imaginative, manual, and computational skills to meet studio production and research resulting in projects that combine visual identity elements (such as logotypes, color palettes, typographic components, illustrations, and/or photographs). The course emphasizes a contextual approach to developing a brand or a line of products and its package as well as toward understanding the design processes that result in functional three-dimensional package solutions. Computer applications: Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, and Adobe InDesign.
GD312
Communication Design 1
Units:3
GD225 + GD226 + GD230
This is an intermediate course in the design major that focuses on the methods and principles of communication and the creation of meaningful content through the development of visual symbols, structures, and systems. The course will include extensive readings and in-depth research, the development and execution of strategic briefs, and both visual and verbal presentations.
GD226
Graphic Design 2
Units:3
GD224 + GD223
This is an intermediate course in the Graphic Design major. Conceptual and practical solutions are emphasized in projects that are conceived to address and meet various communication objectives. Assignments are based on research, design process communication skills and professional presentation.
GD224
Graphic Design 1
Units:3
FD123 + (FD127 or FD001 ) + (FD129 or FD002 ) + FD118
This is an introductory course for the design major. Studio practice explores the use of hierarchy, form, conceptual thinking, visual representation and interpretation, and the elements of communication. Projects address various essential graphic design formats: logotypes, promotional items, editorial design examples, announcements, and a variety of visual styles. Computer applications: Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, and Adobe InDesign.
FD129
Fund of Digital Imaging – Illustrator
Units:2
This lecture and studio course is focused on the use vector based imaging software for drawing and design. Comprehension of key terms and concepts are taught, with projects designed to develop practical software skills and aesthetic development. Emphasis is placed upon use of vector drawing tools, stylization techniques, and integration with pixel graphics. Topics include simplification of form, technical drawing, pattern creation, and perspective studies. Primary software: Adobe Illustrator.
GD251
3D-1: Animation for Motion Graphics
Units:3
FD137 + FD142
This advanced course introduces 3-dimensional computer modeling, concepts, technology and techniques (i.e., 3-dimensional virtual coordinate system, wire-frame, texture mapping, light source and camera positioning, etc.) through assignments that emphasize innovative object or product design and photorealistic representation.
GD001
GD+DM Advancement Review
Units:0
1. ADVANCEMENT REVIEW OVERVIEW: LCAD Design students will be required to successfully complete a portfolio review within their sophomore to junior in order to continue in the design program. This review is mandatory and is designed to assess your strengths, weaknesses, and academic readiness to move forward in the program. You will need to follow the Advancement Submission Guidelines and File Upload Instructions outlined below. REVIEW PURPOSE: The purpose of the review is to identify if you are academically prepared to handle the workload and academic rigor of upper level classes. The review will assess your technical preparedness, work ethic, and design skill sets. All students must pass in order to be admitted into senior portfolio classes. Please do not request portfolio preparation assistance from faculty; part of the evaluation takes into consideration your ability to prepare and submit your work. Faculty can answer individual questions but may not assist in the submission preparation. Failing to submit a portfolio or missing the portfolio deadline will restrict your advancement in the major. 2. REVIEW GUIDELINES FOR PORTFOLIO SUBMISSION: Students will create ONE (1) PDF of multiple pages that will contain all requested information below. The PDF should include the written statement and all images requested.This should be submitted as a PDF, with the file name in this format: advancement-2018-spring-first name-last name.pdf NOTE: please optimize your pdf file size before posting online. A google drive will be prepared for your submission. SELF - EVALUATION WRITTEN STATEMENT 1. State your interests in design and your goals for moving forward in the profession. 2. A summary of key skill areas that you intend to improve in future design courses or classes you are most interested in taking. 3. Detail what steps towards professional development you are taking. This can include things like joining professional organizations such as the AIGA, posting work on professional networking sites like Behance, establishing a profile on LinkedIn, internships, and any art related entrepreneur activities. 4. Rate yourself for each of the PLOs (Program Learning Outcomes) below as a self-assessment. REQUIRED IMAGES AND CONTENT 1. Design Research (Optional, but highly desired) This category is optional because research skills may not be a focus in foundation studio classes. If there is any evidence of relevant research done in preparation for projects, please include visual samples or written explanation. 2. Design Thinking This category is for showing evidence preliminary concept development. This includes thumbnail sketches, mindmaps, mood boards, and other visual methods of showing thought process. Detail the design thinking, supported with visuals for at least 2 projects. 3. Design Analysis This category stresses the ability to write and speak about design, including descriptions of the formal characteristics of a design solution, such as design principles used, color palette, and strengths and weaknesses of a design. Select projects which you can elaborate on and justify the design decisions. Include at least 3 designs, with at least one paragraph to describe each one. 4. Composition and Color This category should showcase work that best utilizes principles of 2d design. Include 3 examples that show mastering over organization of design elements or page content. 5. Lettering and Typography This category is for work that features words as an essential design element. Include at least 3 samples of work that demonstrates skill in hierarchy, legibility, and expression. 6. Digital Media Skills This category is for demonstrating competence with creating and manipulating imagery, including photography, pixel and vector based art, and 3D images. Include at least 4 examples for this category. For work that is part of a series, the entire series can be grouped together to count as one example. 7. Multimedia and Time-based Design This category is for demonstrating competence with multimedia design which would include multi-screen projects such as UI and websites and timeline based work with 3D animations, motion graphics, and videos, which can be shown in storyboard format with screen still frames. Showcase at least 3 projects with a brief description of the context for each one. 8. Professional Development (Optional, but highly desired) Include work which shows client-based work, personal creations for identity, or other evidence of professional development beyond strictly academic classwork. 3. REVIEW OUTCOMES: PASSING OR RETRY 1. After the review, an advancement report will be emailed to all students and will indicate if they have advanced or not advanced. 2. If a student does not advance, they will receive a written explanation as to the cause and what they must do to improve. They should then plan to resubmit for the next submission period. 3. Each student will be advised individually but options may include tutoring, retaking a class/classes or other remediation until such time that the student work is up to standard to progress. 4. These recommendations must be completed before you can resubmit again for the Advancement Review during the next advancement period. 5. Students will have up to three opportunities to resubmit in either Fall or Spring the following term. 6. Passing the AR Review is a requirement to register and take your Capstone classes in your Senior Year. Not passing the Advancement review will delay your graduation and class enrollment.
LA326
Professional Studies for Designers
Units:3
This lecture/studio course introduces students to business practices, thereby bridging the gap between the educational experience and the professional world of the graphic designer. Topics include self-promotion, processes and intricacies of finding work, printing processes and collateral, general business guidelines, billing clients, contracts, and professional organizations.
FD145
Design Drawing
Units:2
This foundation level drawing course is for graphic design students to gain competency in traditional basic of drawing, including line, shape, tone, and space. Drawing from observation to depict form with accurate proportion and perspective is practiced, as well as creating diagrams to visually communicate in ways that are not directly observable.
FD144
Fundamentals of Type
Units:2
FD127 + FD129
This course covers the history, theory and practice of letterforms and typography they apply to other areas of design, graphics and visual communication. Projects cover principles of typography, letter structure, typeface selection, fundamentals of digital type, and typographic layout.
FD142
Fundamentals of Motion Graphics
Units:2
(FD127 or FD001 ) + (FD129 or FD002)
This course is an introduction to the process of creating motion graphics. The core applications used in this course are Adobe After Effects, Premiere, Photoshop, and Illustrator. Students will also be creating video content to use in their motion graphics work.
GD275
Digital Photography 1
Units:3
FD127 + FD118
This lecture and studio course examines the use of digital cameras with a focus on essential skills relevant to artist and designers. Technical aspects of the course include principles of photographic exposure, lighting, and working with digital files. Artistic aspects of the course include considerations for effective communication and emotional impact, thematic unity, and image enhancement techniques. Primary software used: Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Bridge.
FD137
Fundamentals of 3D
Units:2
(FD127 or FD001 ) + (FD129 or FD002)
This course will focus on an introduction to 3D. Students will learn the key features of modeling, animation, lighting, texturing, physic dynamics and camera technique through Autodesk Maya.
FD123
Fundamentals of Graphic Design
Units:2
(FD127 or FD001 ) + (FD129 or FD002)
This foundation course explores basic graphic design methods, processes, techniques, and formats. Assignments introduce elements, media, and principles of graphic design from historical and contemporary perspectives and emphasize visual representation aimed to communicate ideas and non-visual content. Students will use Adobe's Creative Suite 3 (CS3) software.
FD127
Fund of Digital Imaging – Photoshop
Units:2
This lecture and studio course introduces principles of creative visualization with the use of the computer and pixel based imaging software. Comprehension of key terms and concepts are taught, with projects designed to develop practical software skills and aesthetic development. Emphasis is placed upon working with imagery from digital cameras, scanners, and generating original computer graphics. Topics include photo-retouching, digital drawing and painting, digital montage, color modes, and preparing files for printing and web based display. Primary software: Adobe Photoshop.