Beginning in Fall 2008, the courses listed below form the core of the A+GD Program. Students who have entered the program before that date are required to take the courses included in the catalog during the semester they began taking classes.

The numbers to the right of the course title represent Class hours per week, Lab hours per week, and total Course Semester Hours credit.

GRD 110 Typography I    2     2     3
Prerequisites: GRD 141 Corequisites: None
This course introduces the history and mechanics of type and its application to layout and design. Topics include typographic fundamentals, anatomy, measurements, composition, identification, and terminology. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate proficiency in design application, analysis, specification, and creation of typographic elements.

GRD 111 Typography II     2     2     3
Prerequisites: GRD 110 Corequisites: None
This course is a continuation of GRD 110. Emphasis is placed on solving challenging typographic problems. Upon completion, students should be able to understand and demonstrate advanced typographic applications.

GRD 113 History of Graphic Design     3     0     3
Prerequisites: GRD 141 Corequisites: None
This course covers the history of graphic design and visual communications. Topics include major trends, developments, influences, and directions. Upon completion, students should be able to understand, recognize, and analyze important historical and world-wide cultural influences found in today’s marketing of ideas and products.

GRD 121 Drawing Fundamentals I     1     3     2
Prerequisites: None  Corequisites: None
This course increases observation skills using basic drawing techniques and media in graphic design. Emphasis is placed on developing the use of graphic design principles, media applications, spatial considerations, drawing styles, and approaches. Upon completion, students should be able to show competence and proficiency in finished works.

GRD 131 Illustration I     1     3     2
Prerequisites: GRD 121, GRD 141 Corequisites: None
This course introduces the application of rendering techniques to create illustrations. Emphasis is placed on controlling various media, methods, surfaces, design problems, and the appropriate media selection process. Upon completion, students should be able to produce quality illustrations from conception through finished artwork.

GRD 141 Graphic Design I    2     4     4
Prerequisites: None Corequisites: None
This course introduces the conceptualization process used in visual problem solving. Emphasis is placed on learning the principles of design and on the manipulation and organization of elements. Upon completion, students should be able to apply design principles and visual elements to projects.

GRD 142 Graphic Design II     2     4     4
Prerequisites: GRD 141 Corequisites: None
This course covers the application of visual elements and design principles in advertising and graphic design. Topics include creation of various designs, such as logos, advertisements, posters, outdoor advertising, and publication design. Upon completion, students should be able to effectively apply design principles and visual elements to projects.

GRD 151 Computer Design Basics     1     4     3
Prerequisites: None Corequisites: GRD 141
This course covers designing and drawing with various types of software applications for advertising and graphic design. Emphasis is placed on creative and imaginative use of space, shapes, value, texture, color, and typography to provide effective solutions to advertising and graphic design problems. Upon completion, students should be able to use the computer as a creative tool.

GRD 152 Computer Design Tech I    1     4     3
Prerequisites: GRD 151 Corequisites: None
This course covers complex design problems utilizing various design and drawing software applications. Topics include the expressive use of typography, image, and organization to communicate a message. Upon completion, students should be able to use appropriate computer software to professionally present their work.

GRD 167 Photographic Imaging I     1    4     3
Prerequisites: None Corequisites: None
This course introduces basic camera operations and photographic production. Topics include subject composition, depth of field, shutter control, light control, color, photo-finishing, and digital imaging, correction and output. Upon completion, students should be able to produce traditional and/or digital photographic prints with acceptable technical and compositional quality.

GRD 180 Interactive Design     1     4     3
Prerequisites: GRD 151, GRD 152 Corequisites: None
This course covers skills and techniques used in designing interactive presentations. Emphasis is placed on design, including interface design, color, illustration, scripting, audio, typography, and animated elements. Upon completion, students should be able to design and produce interactive presentations.

GRD 241 Graphic Design III    2     4     4
Prerequisites: GRD 142 Corequisites: None
This course is an advanced exploration of various techniques and media for advertising and graphic design. Emphasis is placed on advanced concepts and solutions to complex and challenging graphic design problems. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate competence and professionalism in visual problem solving.

GRD 242 Graphic Design IV    2     4     4
Prerequisites: GRD 241 Corequisites: None
Emphasis is placed on using advanced media techniques, concepts, strategies, and professionalism in all aspects of design. Upon completion, students should be able to conceptualize, create, and produce designs for reproduction.

GRD 263 Illustrative Imaging     1     4     3
Prerequisites: GRD 121, GRD 141, GRD 131, GRD 151 Corequisites: None
This course covers the creative manipulation of images utilizing digital techniques of masking, layering, airbrushing, and painting. Topics include the aesthetic analysis of visual imagery as well as the legalities of manipulating images. Upon completion, students should be able to utilize software applications to creatively manipulate and illustratively build digital images which accomplish design objectives.

GRD 265 Digital Print Production     1     4     3
Prerequisites: GRD 151 Corequisites: None
This course covers preparation of digital files for output and reproduction. Emphasis is placed on output options, separations, color proofing, and cost and design considerations. Upon completion, students should be able to prepare files and select appropriate output methods for design solutions.

GRD 280 Portfolio Design     2     4     4
Prerequisites: GRD 241 Corequisites: GRD 242
This course covers the organization and presentation of a design/advertising or graphic art portfolio and appropriate related materials. Emphasis is placed on development and evaluation of the portfolio, design and production of a résumé and self-promotional materials, and interview techniques. Upon completion, students should be able to prepare and professionally present an effective portfolio and related self-promotional materials.

GRD 282 Advertising Copywriting     1     2     2
Prerequisites: ENG 111 Corequisites: None
This course covers copywriting for print, electronic, and broadcast advertising and promotion. Topics include advertising strategies, proposals, headlines, slogans, and text copy for various types of advertising. Upon completion, students should be able to write and articulate advertising proposals and understand the ethical and regulatory environment for advertising.