Media Arts: Graphic Design - Certificate of Achievement
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This program map only provides one possible pathway for degree and/or certificate obtainment and is for reference only. Please schedule an appointment with a counselor to develop your individualized Student Education Plan.
The Media Arts: Graphic Design Certificate of Achievement prepares students for careers in the visual media industry. The curriculum is designed to help students build strong design foundations, develop visual literacy skills, and become proficient in the technical skills required of a visual designer. Coursework leads to entry-level employment in the region. Electives provide for emphasis in specific areas of interest, including illustration, graphic design, digital publishing, web design, and 3-D design. Capstone courses offer a unique opportunity to create a collective portfolio of student work.
The pathway below represents an efficient and effective course taking sequence for this program. Individual circumstances might require some changes to this pathway. It is always recommended that you meet with an academic counselor to develop a personalized educational plan.
Integrate artistic expression, professional attitudes, and effective working habits as individuals or as members of a collaborative team.
Develop a portfolio for transfer, employment, or freelancing in the design and visual communication industry.
Discover how visual language communicates global culture through research, innovative thinking, writing, and creative expression.
Research, conceptualize and create innovative responses to design projects using knowledge of visual literacy for meaningful communication.
Demonstrate proficiency in industry-standard processes and technologies to create, capture and manipulate visual content in developing artwork for digital and print media.
Program Map
Fall Year 1
This course is an introduction to the concepts, applications, and historical references related to two-dimensional art and composition, including the study of basic design principles and elements. Students will develop a visual vocabulary for creative expression through lectures, studio projects, problem-solving, and writing assignments. This course covers the same content as Art 110, but projects are executed digitally using the computer. This course is not open to students who are enrolled in or have received credit for GRPH 108.
- C1 - Arts (Art, Dance, Music, Theater)
- Category 3: Arts and Humanities
This course is an introduction to the concepts, applications, and historical references related to two-dimensional art and composition, including the study of basic design principles and elements. Students will develop a visual vocabulary for creative expression through lectures, studio projects, problem-solving, and writing assignments. This course covers the same content as Art 110, but projects are executed digitally using the computer. This course is not open to students who are enrolled in or have received credit for ART 108.
- C1 - Arts (Art, Dance, Music, Theater)
- Category 3: Arts and Humanities
- C1 - Arts (Art, Dance, Music, Theater)
Introduces students to the use of Apple computers and Adobe Photoshop for developing and editing digital images for use in graphic design, photography, web, video and motion graphics production. Students will learn raster image resolutions, file formats, color systems and professional creative practices for acquisition, creation, editing and processing for various industries including printing, digital publishing, animation, and video editing.
Spring Year 1
- Advisories: ART 110
- Advisories: GRPH 108
- Advisories: ART 108
- Advisories: PHTO 110
This course is an introduction to the field of illustration and vector-based drawing using Adobe Illustrator software and Apple computers. Emphasis will be placed on developing skills for producing graphics and illustrations for various commercial art marketplaces. Critical thinking and visual problem solving skills will be integrated with current digital illustration practices, tools and publishing technologies.
- Advisories: GRPH 108
- Advisories: GRPH 110
Explores new digital approaches for creating and compositing powerful visual imagery for use in film/video, multimedia, and design. Includes integration of graphics, video, text, and sound on desktop computers. This course is not open to students who are enrolled in or have completed MMAC 126.
This course introduces students to the fundamental principles and practices of User Interface Design (UI.) Students will examine the role of text, navigational systems, visual representation, time, and human-centered design for interactivity and efficiency. Students are introduced to industry tools and methodologies for conceptualizing, designing, and testing interactive and user-centric interfaces. Specialized projects encourage students to develop organizing principles, workflows, prototypes, and interfaces that demonstrate the principles of Visual and Interaction Design and an understanding of different target platforms.
This course teaches the fundamentals of professional digital applications used in the creation and production of digital media across various channels. Students will apply art and design theory to create and edit vector graphics, digital images, designs for publishing, video, and web design. The course teaches basic computer skills, digital image capture, image manipulation, illustration, layout, time-based media, 3D, and emerging technologies and techniques for effective experiential design. The course is not open to students who are enrolled or have completed MMAC 129.
This course teaches the fundamentals of professional digital applications used in the creation and production of digital media across various channels. Students will apply art and design theory to create and edit vector graphics, digital images, designs for publishing, video, and web design. The course teaches basic computer skills, digital image capture, image manipulation, illustration, layout, time-based media, 3D, and emerging technologies and techniques for effective experiential design. The course is not open to students who are enrolled or have completed GRPH 129.
A study of color, what it is, how we see it and strategies for its application in the visual arts. Major historical and contemporary color theory principles will be applied through design strategies.
This course serves as an introduction to drawing the human figure from observation. Studio assignments investigate the human body, its mass, and its movements through the modeling of form, planar analysis, cross-contour, and gesture drawing techniques. Human anatomy and proportional accuracy are emphasized, while expressive and interpretive approaches are explored by means of compositional design, a variety of drawing media, and surveying historical and contemporary roles of figure drawing in the visual arts.
A study of the development of visual communication in art, graphic design, illustration and popular culture. Emphasis is on the role of graphic designers and illustrators, the impact and interpretation of graphic images, symbols, and typography used in informative and persuasive media. The course is designed for graphics majors who want to transfer and is a Humanities elective for general education requirements.
This course introduces students to the principles of 3D modeling for animation, game art, graphic and motion design, and digital media. Students will learn the principles of 3D modeling, rigging, texturing, and rendering. This course uses industry-standard software such as Autodesk's Maya for modeling and Adobe's Substance Painter for texturing. This course is not open to students who have taken MMAC 130.
This course teaches the fundamentals of professional digital applications used in the creation and production of digital media across various channels. Students will apply art and design theory to create and edit vector graphics, digital images, designs for publishing, video, and web design. The course teaches basic computer skills, digital image capture, image manipulation, illustration, layout, time-based media, 3D, and emerging technologies and techniques for effective experiential design. The course is not open to students who are enrolled or have completed GRPH 129.
This course teaches the fundamentals of professional digital applications used in the creation and production of digital media across various channels. Students will apply art and design theory to create and edit vector graphics, digital images, designs for publishing, video, and web design. The course teaches basic computer skills, digital image capture, image manipulation, illustration, layout, time-based media, 3D, and emerging technologies and techniques for effective experiential design. The course is not open to students who are enrolled or have completed MMAC 129.
An introduction to the fundamental concepts, practices and theories of digital art production. Topics include integration of traditional design, color, and compositional principles with contemporary digital tools.
Students in Art 121 will build on the fundamental technical drawing skills of Art 120 : Drawing 1, to develop more personalized approaches to drawing materials, strategies and subject matter. In addition to traditional drawing media, color media and techniques will be introduced and explored. Students will develop and visually communicate ideas using a variety of materials, formats, techniques and methodologies, through still life, figurative, landscape, narrative, abstract, expressive and imagined subjects. Projects will cover multiple historical and contemporary approaches to drawing. Creative expression, individual growth, development of personal style and content are emphasized.
This course serves as an introduction to drawing the human figure from observation. Studio assignments investigate the human body, its mass, and its movements through the modeling of form, planar analysis, cross-contour, and gesture drawing techniques. Human anatomy and proportional accuracy are emphasized, while expressive and interpretive approaches are explored by means of compositional design, a variety of drawing media, and surveying historical and contemporary roles of figure drawing in the visual arts.
Explores new digital approaches for creating and compositing powerful visual imagery for use in film/video, multimedia, and design. Includes integration of graphics, video, text, and sound on desktop computers. This course is not open to students who are enrolled in or have completed FILM 126. Course software: Adobe After Effects and Photoshop.
Explores new digital approaches for creating and compositing powerful visual imagery for use in film/video, multimedia, and design. Includes integration of graphics, video, text, and sound on desktop computers. This course is not open to students who are enrolled in or have completed MMAC 126.
This course teaches the fundamentals of professional digital applications used in the creation and production of digital media across various channels. Students will apply art and design theory to create and edit vector graphics, digital images, designs for publishing, video, and web design. The course teaches basic computer skills, digital image capture, image manipulation, illustration, layout, time-based media, 3D, and emerging technologies and techniques for effective experiential design. The course is not open to students who are enrolled or have completed GRPH 129.
This course teaches the fundamentals of professional digital applications used in the creation and production of digital media across various channels. Students will apply art and design theory to create and edit vector graphics, digital images, designs for publishing, video, and web design. The course teaches basic computer skills, digital image capture, image manipulation, illustration, layout, time-based media, 3D, and emerging technologies and techniques for effective experiential design. The course is not open to students who are enrolled or have completed MMAC 129.
This course introduces students to the fundamental principles and practices of User Interface Design (UI.) Students will examine the role of text, navigational systems, visual representation, time, and human-centered design for interactivity and efficiency. Students are introduced to industry tools and methodologies for conceptualizing, designing, and testing interactive and user-centric interfaces. Specialized projects encourage students to develop organizing principles, workflows, prototypes, and interfaces that demonstrate the principles of Visual and Interaction Design and an understanding of different target platforms.
This course introduces students to the principles of 3D modeling for animation, game art, graphic and motion design, and digital media. Students will learn the principles of 3D modeling, rigging, texturing, and rendering. This course uses industry-standard software such as Autodesk's Maya for modeling and Adobe's Substance Painter for texturing. This course is not open to students who have taken MMAC 130.
- Corequisite: PHTO 385
- Corequisite: PHTO 384
A study of the development of visual communication in art, graphic design, illustration and popular culture. Emphasis is on the role of graphic designers and illustrators, the impact and interpretation of graphic images, symbols, and typography used in informative and persuasive media. The course is designed for graphics majors who want to transfer and is a Humanities elective for general education requirements.
- Corequisite: PHTO 385
- Corequisite: PHTO 384
Fall Year 2
- Advisories: GRPH 108
- Advisories: GRPH 110
The course explores how multimedia transforms experiences of creative expression and communication and impacts our cultural, business, and personal lives. Topics include project planning, development, and exploration through multiple projects. Projects include art for interaction, web imagery, animation, motion graphics, UI/UX, gaming, visual effects, video production, and transmedia storytelling. Course software: Adobe Creative Suite and other relevant software.
- Category 3: Humanities
Explores new digital approaches for creating and compositing powerful visual imagery for use in film/video, multimedia, and design. Includes integration of graphics, video, text, and sound on desktop computers. This course is not open to students who are enrolled in or have completed MMAC 126.
This course introduces students to the fundamental principles and practices of User Interface Design (UI.) Students will examine the role of text, navigational systems, visual representation, time, and human-centered design for interactivity and efficiency. Students are introduced to industry tools and methodologies for conceptualizing, designing, and testing interactive and user-centric interfaces. Specialized projects encourage students to develop organizing principles, workflows, prototypes, and interfaces that demonstrate the principles of Visual and Interaction Design and an understanding of different target platforms.
This course teaches the fundamentals of professional digital applications used in the creation and production of digital media across various channels. Students will apply art and design theory to create and edit vector graphics, digital images, designs for publishing, video, and web design. The course teaches basic computer skills, digital image capture, image manipulation, illustration, layout, time-based media, 3D, and emerging technologies and techniques for effective experiential design. The course is not open to students who are enrolled or have completed MMAC 129.
This course teaches the fundamentals of professional digital applications used in the creation and production of digital media across various channels. Students will apply art and design theory to create and edit vector graphics, digital images, designs for publishing, video, and web design. The course teaches basic computer skills, digital image capture, image manipulation, illustration, layout, time-based media, 3D, and emerging technologies and techniques for effective experiential design. The course is not open to students who are enrolled or have completed GRPH 129.
A study of color, what it is, how we see it and strategies for its application in the visual arts. Major historical and contemporary color theory principles will be applied through design strategies.
This course serves as an introduction to drawing the human figure from observation. Studio assignments investigate the human body, its mass, and its movements through the modeling of form, planar analysis, cross-contour, and gesture drawing techniques. Human anatomy and proportional accuracy are emphasized, while expressive and interpretive approaches are explored by means of compositional design, a variety of drawing media, and surveying historical and contemporary roles of figure drawing in the visual arts.
A study of the development of visual communication in art, graphic design, illustration and popular culture. Emphasis is on the role of graphic designers and illustrators, the impact and interpretation of graphic images, symbols, and typography used in informative and persuasive media. The course is designed for graphics majors who want to transfer and is a Humanities elective for general education requirements.
This course introduces students to the principles of 3D modeling for animation, game art, graphic and motion design, and digital media. Students will learn the principles of 3D modeling, rigging, texturing, and rendering. This course uses industry-standard software such as Autodesk's Maya for modeling and Adobe's Substance Painter for texturing. This course is not open to students who have taken MMAC 130.
This course teaches the fundamentals of professional digital applications used in the creation and production of digital media across various channels. Students will apply art and design theory to create and edit vector graphics, digital images, designs for publishing, video, and web design. The course teaches basic computer skills, digital image capture, image manipulation, illustration, layout, time-based media, 3D, and emerging technologies and techniques for effective experiential design. The course is not open to students who are enrolled or have completed GRPH 129.
This course teaches the fundamentals of professional digital applications used in the creation and production of digital media across various channels. Students will apply art and design theory to create and edit vector graphics, digital images, designs for publishing, video, and web design. The course teaches basic computer skills, digital image capture, image manipulation, illustration, layout, time-based media, 3D, and emerging technologies and techniques for effective experiential design. The course is not open to students who are enrolled or have completed MMAC 129.
An introduction to the fundamental concepts, practices and theories of digital art production. Topics include integration of traditional design, color, and compositional principles with contemporary digital tools.
Students in Art 121 will build on the fundamental technical drawing skills of Art 120 : Drawing 1, to develop more personalized approaches to drawing materials, strategies and subject matter. In addition to traditional drawing media, color media and techniques will be introduced and explored. Students will develop and visually communicate ideas using a variety of materials, formats, techniques and methodologies, through still life, figurative, landscape, narrative, abstract, expressive and imagined subjects. Projects will cover multiple historical and contemporary approaches to drawing. Creative expression, individual growth, development of personal style and content are emphasized.
This course serves as an introduction to drawing the human figure from observation. Studio assignments investigate the human body, its mass, and its movements through the modeling of form, planar analysis, cross-contour, and gesture drawing techniques. Human anatomy and proportional accuracy are emphasized, while expressive and interpretive approaches are explored by means of compositional design, a variety of drawing media, and surveying historical and contemporary roles of figure drawing in the visual arts.
Explores new digital approaches for creating and compositing powerful visual imagery for use in film/video, multimedia, and design. Includes integration of graphics, video, text, and sound on desktop computers. This course is not open to students who are enrolled in or have completed FILM 126. Course software: Adobe After Effects and Photoshop.
Explores new digital approaches for creating and compositing powerful visual imagery for use in film/video, multimedia, and design. Includes integration of graphics, video, text, and sound on desktop computers. This course is not open to students who are enrolled in or have completed MMAC 126.
This course teaches the fundamentals of professional digital applications used in the creation and production of digital media across various channels. Students will apply art and design theory to create and edit vector graphics, digital images, designs for publishing, video, and web design. The course teaches basic computer skills, digital image capture, image manipulation, illustration, layout, time-based media, 3D, and emerging technologies and techniques for effective experiential design. The course is not open to students who are enrolled or have completed GRPH 129.
This course teaches the fundamentals of professional digital applications used in the creation and production of digital media across various channels. Students will apply art and design theory to create and edit vector graphics, digital images, designs for publishing, video, and web design. The course teaches basic computer skills, digital image capture, image manipulation, illustration, layout, time-based media, 3D, and emerging technologies and techniques for effective experiential design. The course is not open to students who are enrolled or have completed MMAC 129.
This course introduces students to the fundamental principles and practices of User Interface Design (UI.) Students will examine the role of text, navigational systems, visual representation, time, and human-centered design for interactivity and efficiency. Students are introduced to industry tools and methodologies for conceptualizing, designing, and testing interactive and user-centric interfaces. Specialized projects encourage students to develop organizing principles, workflows, prototypes, and interfaces that demonstrate the principles of Visual and Interaction Design and an understanding of different target platforms.
This course introduces students to the principles of 3D modeling for animation, game art, graphic and motion design, and digital media. Students will learn the principles of 3D modeling, rigging, texturing, and rendering. This course uses industry-standard software such as Autodesk's Maya for modeling and Adobe's Substance Painter for texturing. This course is not open to students who have taken MMAC 130.
- Corequisite: PHTO 385
- Corequisite: PHTO 384
A study of the development of visual communication in art, graphic design, illustration and popular culture. Emphasis is on the role of graphic designers and illustrators, the impact and interpretation of graphic images, symbols, and typography used in informative and persuasive media. The course is designed for graphics majors who want to transfer and is a Humanities elective for general education requirements.
- Corequisite: PHTO 385
- Corequisite: PHTO 384
Spring Year 2
This course examines digital publication design tools and processes. Students will explore the tools, apply design principles, and learn about industry best-practices used in developing artwork for single-page, multi-page and long-form documents. They will develop knowledge of digital prepress requirements for print production and digital publications utilizing current Adobe InDesign software and Apple computers. Other software used includes text editors, Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Illustrator.
- Advisories: GRPH 110
- Advisories: GRPH 112
- Advisories: GRPH 113
Portfolio development for visual arts students who are interested in transfer, employment or exhibitions. This course will cover how to curate and present a coherent body of artwork that reflects technical skills, creativity and style. Students will learn design strategies, content editing, and formatting options for print and digital content. Students will also learn how to develop personal brands, marketing materials, artist statements, and resumes. Previous course work in the arts is advised - at least 5-7 quality examples of visual or motion-based art is strongly recommended for success in this course.
- Advisories: ART 110
- Advisories: GRPH 108
- Corequisite: PHTO 385
- Corequisite: PHTO 384
Explores new digital approaches for creating and compositing powerful visual imagery for use in film/video, multimedia, and design. Includes integration of graphics, video, text, and sound on desktop computers. This course is not open to students who are enrolled in or have completed MMAC 126.
This course introduces students to the fundamental principles and practices of User Interface Design (UI.) Students will examine the role of text, navigational systems, visual representation, time, and human-centered design for interactivity and efficiency. Students are introduced to industry tools and methodologies for conceptualizing, designing, and testing interactive and user-centric interfaces. Specialized projects encourage students to develop organizing principles, workflows, prototypes, and interfaces that demonstrate the principles of Visual and Interaction Design and an understanding of different target platforms.
This course teaches the fundamentals of professional digital applications used in the creation and production of digital media across various channels. Students will apply art and design theory to create and edit vector graphics, digital images, designs for publishing, video, and web design. The course teaches basic computer skills, digital image capture, image manipulation, illustration, layout, time-based media, 3D, and emerging technologies and techniques for effective experiential design. The course is not open to students who are enrolled or have completed MMAC 129.
This course teaches the fundamentals of professional digital applications used in the creation and production of digital media across various channels. Students will apply art and design theory to create and edit vector graphics, digital images, designs for publishing, video, and web design. The course teaches basic computer skills, digital image capture, image manipulation, illustration, layout, time-based media, 3D, and emerging technologies and techniques for effective experiential design. The course is not open to students who are enrolled or have completed GRPH 129.
A study of color, what it is, how we see it and strategies for its application in the visual arts. Major historical and contemporary color theory principles will be applied through design strategies.
This course serves as an introduction to drawing the human figure from observation. Studio assignments investigate the human body, its mass, and its movements through the modeling of form, planar analysis, cross-contour, and gesture drawing techniques. Human anatomy and proportional accuracy are emphasized, while expressive and interpretive approaches are explored by means of compositional design, a variety of drawing media, and surveying historical and contemporary roles of figure drawing in the visual arts.
A study of the development of visual communication in art, graphic design, illustration and popular culture. Emphasis is on the role of graphic designers and illustrators, the impact and interpretation of graphic images, symbols, and typography used in informative and persuasive media. The course is designed for graphics majors who want to transfer and is a Humanities elective for general education requirements.
This course introduces students to the principles of 3D modeling for animation, game art, graphic and motion design, and digital media. Students will learn the principles of 3D modeling, rigging, texturing, and rendering. This course uses industry-standard software such as Autodesk's Maya for modeling and Adobe's Substance Painter for texturing. This course is not open to students who have taken MMAC 130.
This course teaches the fundamentals of professional digital applications used in the creation and production of digital media across various channels. Students will apply art and design theory to create and edit vector graphics, digital images, designs for publishing, video, and web design. The course teaches basic computer skills, digital image capture, image manipulation, illustration, layout, time-based media, 3D, and emerging technologies and techniques for effective experiential design. The course is not open to students who are enrolled or have completed GRPH 129.
This course teaches the fundamentals of professional digital applications used in the creation and production of digital media across various channels. Students will apply art and design theory to create and edit vector graphics, digital images, designs for publishing, video, and web design. The course teaches basic computer skills, digital image capture, image manipulation, illustration, layout, time-based media, 3D, and emerging technologies and techniques for effective experiential design. The course is not open to students who are enrolled or have completed MMAC 129.
An introduction to the fundamental concepts, practices and theories of digital art production. Topics include integration of traditional design, color, and compositional principles with contemporary digital tools.
Students in Art 121 will build on the fundamental technical drawing skills of Art 120 : Drawing 1, to develop more personalized approaches to drawing materials, strategies and subject matter. In addition to traditional drawing media, color media and techniques will be introduced and explored. Students will develop and visually communicate ideas using a variety of materials, formats, techniques and methodologies, through still life, figurative, landscape, narrative, abstract, expressive and imagined subjects. Projects will cover multiple historical and contemporary approaches to drawing. Creative expression, individual growth, development of personal style and content are emphasized.
This course serves as an introduction to drawing the human figure from observation. Studio assignments investigate the human body, its mass, and its movements through the modeling of form, planar analysis, cross-contour, and gesture drawing techniques. Human anatomy and proportional accuracy are emphasized, while expressive and interpretive approaches are explored by means of compositional design, a variety of drawing media, and surveying historical and contemporary roles of figure drawing in the visual arts.
Explores new digital approaches for creating and compositing powerful visual imagery for use in film/video, multimedia, and design. Includes integration of graphics, video, text, and sound on desktop computers. This course is not open to students who are enrolled in or have completed FILM 126. Course software: Adobe After Effects and Photoshop.
Explores new digital approaches for creating and compositing powerful visual imagery for use in film/video, multimedia, and design. Includes integration of graphics, video, text, and sound on desktop computers. This course is not open to students who are enrolled in or have completed MMAC 126.
This course teaches the fundamentals of professional digital applications used in the creation and production of digital media across various channels. Students will apply art and design theory to create and edit vector graphics, digital images, designs for publishing, video, and web design. The course teaches basic computer skills, digital image capture, image manipulation, illustration, layout, time-based media, 3D, and emerging technologies and techniques for effective experiential design. The course is not open to students who are enrolled or have completed GRPH 129.
This course teaches the fundamentals of professional digital applications used in the creation and production of digital media across various channels. Students will apply art and design theory to create and edit vector graphics, digital images, designs for publishing, video, and web design. The course teaches basic computer skills, digital image capture, image manipulation, illustration, layout, time-based media, 3D, and emerging technologies and techniques for effective experiential design. The course is not open to students who are enrolled or have completed MMAC 129.
This course introduces students to the fundamental principles and practices of User Interface Design (UI.) Students will examine the role of text, navigational systems, visual representation, time, and human-centered design for interactivity and efficiency. Students are introduced to industry tools and methodologies for conceptualizing, designing, and testing interactive and user-centric interfaces. Specialized projects encourage students to develop organizing principles, workflows, prototypes, and interfaces that demonstrate the principles of Visual and Interaction Design and an understanding of different target platforms.
This course introduces students to the principles of 3D modeling for animation, game art, graphic and motion design, and digital media. Students will learn the principles of 3D modeling, rigging, texturing, and rendering. This course uses industry-standard software such as Autodesk's Maya for modeling and Adobe's Substance Painter for texturing. This course is not open to students who have taken MMAC 130.
- Corequisite: PHTO 385
- Corequisite: PHTO 384
A study of the development of visual communication in art, graphic design, illustration and popular culture. Emphasis is on the role of graphic designers and illustrators, the impact and interpretation of graphic images, symbols, and typography used in informative and persuasive media. The course is designed for graphics majors who want to transfer and is a Humanities elective for general education requirements.
- Corequisite: PHTO 385
- Corequisite: PHTO 384