This course introduces the basic components of computer graphics and digital media.  Students will learn the concepts and techniques used in preparing electronic art and design for visual communication. Topics include but are not limited to, vector- and raster-based imaging techniques, digital typography, color theory, file management, layout, and composition. The class will be taught primarily on the Mac OS platform. Still, students are welcome to use other platforms because they use industry-standard software in the Adobe Creative Cloud Suite (Illustrator, InDesign, Photoshop, Acrobat, Animate, etc.)

This course is an exploration of beginning and intermediate to advanced concepts and procedures in the preparation of digital art and design for the purpose of visual communication. Topics include, but are not limited to, electronic layout, illustration techniques, digital typography, scanning, digital color theory, file format preparation, designing for print and web, electronic printing and pre-press production and professional presentation.

This course explores intermediate to advanced concepts and procedures in preparing digital art and design for visual communication. Students will gain hands-on experience designing for print and digital platforms, emphasizing user engagement, professional presentation, and integrating functionality with creativity. Topics include layout, illustration techniques, digital typography, digital color theory, file preparation, and UX/UI design principles. The class will primarily use Mac OS, although students may use other platforms with Adobe Creative Cloud Suite software (Illustrator, InDesign, Photoshop, Acrobat, Animate, etc.).

The course is structured around a semester-long UX/UI project where students design a comprehensive package for an upcoming event, encompassing both digital and physical assets.

Advanced exploration of packaging and display design with a focus on research-driven, real-world projects. Students will work on complex design challenges including product packaging redesign, global brand adaptation, and campaign development for a new product launch. Emphasis is placed on audience research, conceptual development, production techniques, and professional presentation through both digital and physical mockups.

Students will explore the dynamic world of the creative industry from the perspectives of the staff artist/designer, freelancer, and entrepreneur. This multidisciplinary seminar will help prospective graduates learn the fundamentals of business, marketing, and self-promotion for media artists, photographers, and designers.

Course topics include careers in the visual arts, self-promotion, pricing creative services, contracts and negotiations, intellectual property issues, and entrepreneurial ventures in the arts. By the end of the course, students will have developed a comprehensive brand and business launch plan to showcase their entrepreneurial and strategic skills.

This course is an exploration of the fundamental concepts, techniques, practices, workflows, and tools associated with the practice of user experience design in web and mobile experiences. Students will learn how to apply these concepts through individual and team-based projects designing online and mobile experiences.

This course will provide instruction on the production and presentation of work in all forms. (the drawing board, printed page and digitally). Methods and techniques of presenting work to prospective employers will be discussed along with presenting oneself to a potential employer, and selling one’s work to a client.

If a student’s work is at the level of development which allows them to benefit from working as an apprentice in a professional studio of an appropriate area of career interest the student will be required to seek and gain experience.