Graphic Design, BA

Program Description

Graphic Design is a creative and inspiring process that combines art and technology to communicate ideas and information visually from client to audience.  Rooted in traditional art and design foundations, the focus of the Graphic Design curriculum is to educate and inform students of the impact design can make through the exploration of diverse problem-solving methodologies, innovative investigations, and creative research in all forms of visual communication.  Through their studio work, Graphic Design majors will address issues stressing social and cultural awareness, integration of new technology, and sustainable practices while being prepared to enter into the evolving creative industry.

Student Learning Outcomes

Students will:

  • Demonstrate mastery of client-focused, visual communication and problem-solving methodologies;
  • Demonstrate proficiency in professional skills and use of technology in preparation for professional practice;
  • Demonstrate advanced critical thinking in analyzing discipline history, theory, criticism and practices;
  • Be prepared for professional positions in the field of visual communications or for graduate school.

General Requirements

Requirements Credit Hours
Core Curriculum Program (Includes ARTS 1303 and 1304) 42
First-Year Seminars (when applicable)1 0-2
Graphic Design Major Requirements 54
University Electives 18
Foreign Language Requirements 6
Total Credit Hours 120-122
1

First-Year Seminars or Electives

Full-time, first time in college students are required to take the first-year seminars.

Program Requirements

Full-time, First-Year Students 1
UNIV 1101University Seminar I1
UNIV 1102University Seminar II1
Core Curriculum Program
University Core Curriculum42
Note: ARTS 1303 and ARTS 1304 need to be taken as part of the University Core Curriculum. Both are required for the BA in Graphic Design degree.
Art Requirements
ARTS 1311Design I3
ARTS 1316Drawing I3
ARTS 2333Printmaking I3
or ARTS 2356 Photography I
Graphic Design Requirements
GRDS 1301Foundations of Graphic Design3
GRDS 1302Typography I3
GRDS 2301Historical Perspectives of Graphic Design3
GRDS 2302Design Studio I3
GRDS 2303Concept & Making3
GRDS 2304Typography II3
GRDS 3303Design Experience & Awareness3
GRDS 3304Publication Design3
GRDS 3305Packaging Design3
GRDS 3306User Interface/User Experience3
GRDS 3310Client Solutions3
GRDS 4304Emerging Technologies3
GRDS 4309Design in Advertising3
GRDS 4310Portfolio and Professional Practices3
Lower Level Review happens in the Spring semester of Year 1
Upper Level Program Review happens in the Spring semester of Year 2
Graphic Design Electives
Select 3 hours of upper division electives.3
University Electives
Select 18 hours of university electives.18
Foreign Language Requirements
See the College of Liberal Arts for the college language requirement.6
Total Hours122
1

Transfer students with 24 or more hours are exempt from First-Year Seminar.

Required Program Reviews:

Graphic Design Majors will undergo two formal portfolio and performance reviews, the Lower Level Review (LL Review) and Upper Level Review (UL Review). Both Reviews occur in Spring semesters only. Students who intend to major in Graphic Design must meet all review eligibility requirements to participate. Students are eligible for the Lower Level Review after completing two specified GRDS foundational program courses. Students who do not pass the Lower Level Review will not be able to register for sophomore-level classes and may be advised to repeat one or both of the specified foundational courses. Denied LL Review applicants will be allowed only one additional attempt by resubmitting their revised portfolio for review the following Spring. After passing the LL Review, all students intending to graduate with a BA in Graphic Design must pass the Upper Level Review to register for junior-level courses and continue the program. Discerning advancement through the Graphic Design Degree Program ensures elevated professionalism of program graduates.

Transfer Credit:

Special arrangements will be made to review the work of students who have completed communication design or graphic design courses at other institutions to determine the appropriate entry level into the TAMU-CC program and award transfer credit. Regardless of academic status, all students must be admitted into the Graphic Design Program through either the Lower Level Review or Upper Level Review.

Grade Minimums:

To remain in the program, Graphic Design students must earn a “C” or higher in all major courses. If the student does not earn a “C” or higher in a major course, the student may be required to repeat the course or be removed from the Graphic Design Program. A student that earns a “D” or lower in major courses for two consecutive semesters will be removed from the Graphic Design Program.

Degree Matriculation Expedition or Exceptions:

The BA in Graphic Design degree is a 4-year, sequenced curriculum that cannot typically be expedited due to cohort capacities, program resources, and course prerequisites. Requests for expediting the degree plan will be considered but are not guaranteed to be granted. All requests must be approved by the Graphic Design Program Coordinator and Graphic Design Faculty. The GRDS Matriculation Exception Policy and Criteria is available upon request from the Program Coordinator.

Course Sequencing

Plan of Study Grid
First Year
FallHours
ARTS 1303 Art History Survey I 3
ARTS 1311 Design I 3
GRDS 1301 Foundations of Graphic Design 3
UNIV 1101 University Seminar I 1
ENGL 1301 Writing and Rhetoric I 3
University Core Curriculum 3
 Hours16
Spring
ARTS 1304 Art History Survey II 3
ARTS 1316 Drawing I 3
GRDS 1302 Typography I 3
UNIV 1102 University Seminar II 1
ENGL 1302
Writing and Rhetoric II
or Foundation of Communication
3
MATH 1332
Contemporary Mathematics
or Introduction to Logic and Critical Thinking
3
 Hours16
Second Year
Fall
GRDS 2301 Historical Perspectives of Graphic Design 3
GRDS 2303 Concept & Making 3
Foreign Language Requirements 3
University Core Curriculum 3
University Core Curriculum 3
 Hours15
Spring
ARTS 2356
Photography I
or Printmaking I
3
GRDS 2302 Design Studio I 3
GRDS 2304 Typography II 3
Foreign Language Requirements 3
University Core Curriculum 3
University Core Curriculum 3
 Hours18
Third Year
Fall
GRDS 3304 Publication Design 3
GRDS 3306 User Interface/User Experience 3
University Core Curriculum 3
University Core Curriculum 3
GRDS or UD Elective (GRDS 4399 Internship Recommended) 3
 Hours15
Spring
GRDS 3310 Client Solutions 3
GRDS 4304 Emerging Technologies 3
University Core Curriculum 3
University Core Curriculum 3
GRDS or UD Elective (GRDS 4399 Internship Recommended) 3
 Hours15
Fourth Year
Fall
GRDS 4309 Design in Advertising 3
GRDS 3303 Design Experience & Awareness 3
Upper Division Electives 3
Upper Division Electives 3
Upper Division Electives 3
 Hours15
Spring
GRDS 3305 Packaging Design 3
GRDS 4310 Portfolio and Professional Practices 3
Upper Division Electives 3
Upper Division Electives 3
 Hours12
 Total Hours122

Courses

Art Courses

ARTS 1301  Art and Society  
3 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours)  

Designated for non-art majors. Establishes a working vocabulary for evaluating works of art in various media. Objects are interpreted in terms of their specific historical contexts and the changing relationships between art and society. This course does not fulfill the art history requirement for art majors.

TCCNS: ARTS 1301  
ARTS 1303  Art History Survey I  
3 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours)  

An examination of painting, sculpture, architecture, and other arts from the ancient through medieval periods.

TCCNS: ARTS 1303  
ARTS 1304  Art History Survey II  
3 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours)  

A further examination of painting, sculpture, architecture, and other arts from the Renaissance through Modern periods. This course satisfies the university core curriculum requirement in fine arts.

Prerequisite: ARTS 1303.

TCCNS: ARTS 1304  
ARTS 1311  Design I  
3 Semester Credit Hours  

A studio course concerning the fundamentals of art with emphasis on two-dimensional concepts.

Co-requisite: SMTE 0097.  
TCCNS: ARTS 1311  
ARTS 1312  Design II  
3 Semester Credit Hours  

A studio course concerning the fundamentals of art with emphasis on three-dimensional concepts.  This 3D foundations course utilizes creative problem-solving strategies and basic sculpture tools to explore spatial relationships and to create sculptural forms in space.

Co-requisite: SMTE 0097.  
TCCNS: ARTS 1312  
ARTS 1316  Drawing I  
3 Semester Credit Hours  

A studio course investigating a variety of media techniques, including their descriptive and expressive possibilities.

TCCNS: ARTS 1316  
ARTS 1317  Drawing II  
3 Semester Credit Hours  

A further investigation of media techniques explored in Drawing I, including their descriptive and expressive possibilities.

Prerequisite: ARTS 1316.

Co-requisite: SMTE 0097.  
TCCNS: ARTS 1317  
ARTS 2316  Painting I  
3 Semester Credit Hours  

A studio course exploring the potentials of painting media.

Prerequisite: ARTS 1316.

Co-requisite: SMTE 0097.  
TCCNS: ARTS 2316  
ARTS 2326  Sculpture I  
3 Semester Credit Hours  

An introductory studio course exploring sculptural approaches, materials, concepts, and technical processes. Materials include wood, plaster, steel, and plastics.

Co-requisite: SMTE 0097.  
TCCNS: ARTS 2326  
ARTS 2333  Printmaking I  
3 Semester Credit Hours  

An introductory studio course in basic printmaking processes and techniques.

Prerequisite: ARTS 1316 or 1311.

Co-requisite: SMTE 0097.  
TCCNS: ARTS 2333  
ARTS 2346  Ceramics I  
3 Semester Credit Hours  

An introductory studio course in basic ceramic processes.

Co-requisite: SMTE 0097.  
TCCNS: ARTS 2346  
ARTS 2356  Photography I  
3 Semester Credit Hours  

This course is an introduction to digital photography capture, processing, and basic editing software. While focusing on the fundamentals of digital photography and printing techniques, it will introduce students to the theory and practice of photography and assist them in producing a conceptually devised and technically consistent portfolio.

TCCNS: ARTS 2356  
ARTS 2367  Watercolor  
3 Semester Credit Hours  

A studio course exploring techniques in water-base media.

Co-requisite: SMTE 0097.  
ARTS 3301  Life Drawing  
3 Semester Credit Hours  

Drawing from the model using a variety of techniques and media.

Prerequisite: (ARTS 1317).

Co-requisite: SMTE 0097.  
ARTS 3302  Screen Printing  
3 Semester Credit Hours  

Traditional printmaking processes will be explored using black and white and color techniques, including but not limited to screenprinting.

Prerequisite: ARTS 1311 or 1316.

Co-requisite: SMTE 0097.  
ARTS 3303  Intermediate Painting  
3 Semester Credit Hours  

Explores the issues of content, imagery, application, and influences of master artists.

Prerequisite: ARTS 2316.

Co-requisite: SMTE 0097.  
ARTS 3304  Fabrication Sculpture  
3 Semester Credit Hours  

Building upon introductory skills, this course explores construction and fabrication in sculpture focusing on a primary material for the semester and applying advanced techniques and processes for this material. Through this material and techniques, students begin defining and developing their visual vocabulary relative to art history and contemporary sculptural issues.

Prerequisite: ARTS 2326.

Co-requisite: SMTE 0097.  
ARTS 3305  Mold Making and Casting Sculpture  
3 Semester Credit Hours  

This course is designed to build upon the fundamental principles of mold making and casting while exploring more complex concepts, materials, and techniques.  Creating multi-part molds, flexible molds, and investment molds, the project assignments incorporate the unique versatility of mold making and casting for exchanging media and making a series of multiples.  In addition to making casts, students compare methods for assembling cast forms together to create larger sculptural artworks and installations.

Co-requisite: SMTE 0097.  
ARTS 3306  Figurative Sculpture  
3 Semester Credit Hours  

A study of the human figure from an anatomical and artistic perspective. Examines the skeletal and muscular components of the figure in order to create lifelike and emotive sculptures. Discussion of the figure in both classical and contemporary art. Working with armature and modeling clay.

Co-requisite: SMTE 0097.  
ARTS 3307  Lithography and Planographic Process  
3 Semester Credit Hours  

Traditional printmaking processes will be explored using black and white and color techniques, including but not limited to lithography and monoprinting.

Prerequisite: ARTS 3311 or 1316.

Co-requisite: SMTE 0097.  
ARTS 3311  Color Theory  
3 Semester Credit Hours  

This course develops an understanding of color properties and relationships through formal exercises, research and creative thinking. Students build a vocabulary for analyzing and identifying color and color phenomena. Concepts of color theorists and color use in a variety of fields are examined to understand the application of color theory.  Students will investigate the use of color in their own work and in the work of others to understand the conceptual and aesthetic application of color.

Prerequisite: ARTS 1311.

ARTS 3313  Figure Painting  
3 Semester Credit Hours  

This course addresses the structure and anatomy of the human figure using oil paint. Painting techniques and color theory exercises will familiarize students with tradition painting methods. Students will render proportions, balance, form and mass of the human figure. Research and discussions will address the human form throughout history as well as in the contemporary context. Image presentations, critiques and live model sessions will supplement studio work.

Prerequisite: ARTS 2316.

Co-requisite: SMTE 0097.  
ARTS 3316  Art Activities I  
3 Semester Credit Hours  

Practical experience with basic design, drawing, painting, and sculpture, along with a study of art history and criticism. Includes a consideration of how these experiences relate to art curricula in the elementary school.

ARTS 3322  Art Activities II  
3 Semester Credit Hours  

Practical experiences with basic design, drawing, painting, printmaking, sculpture, and crafts, along with a study of art history and criticism. Includes a consideration of how these experiences relate to art curricula in the secondary school.

ARTS 3324  Wheel Throwing  
3 Semester Credit Hours  

Covers wheel-thrown ceramics (other production techniques may be included), basic glazemaking, and an introduction to kiln firing and loading.

Prerequisite: ARTS 2346.

Co-requisite: SMTE 0097.  
ARTS 3325  Handbuilt Ceramic Techniques  
3 Semester Credit Hours  

This course is a continuation of hand-building covered in Ceramics I ARTS 2346.  The course will cover more advanced forming techniques such as extrusion, hump, slump, and press molds, and slip-casting. New surface and firing techniques will include more advanced techniques such as underglazes, onglaze techniques such as majolica, fired decal application, raku, and an introduction to low fire glazes and surfaces.

Prerequisite: ARTS 2346.

ARTS 3350  Art of the United States  
3 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours)  

A survey of the major developments in the art of North America from Pre-Columbian times to the modern era

ARTS 3352  Modern Art  
3 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours)  

A survey of the major movements of 20th century art and aesthetics, which developed primarily in Europe. Includes a review of late 19th century modernist antecedents with emphasis placed on the principal movements of the early 20th century: Fauvism, German Expressionism, Cubism, Futurism, Abstract Art, Dada, and Surrealism.

ARTS 3353  Art Since 1945  
3 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours)  

An examination of the dispersal of European artists and Modernism, primarily to America, as a result of World War II. Examines the development of Abstract Expressionism in New York in the 1940s and 50s, followed by a survey of recent trends in contemporary art to the present day.

ARTS 3365  Photography II  
3 Semester Credit Hours  

An intermediate studio course using digital cameras and image manipulation software. Prior completion of ARTS 2356 is required.  This course will enhance and expand skills developed in Photography I. It is geared toward informing students in the many ways we can make photographs; by seeking them out, framing them, forming them, extracting them, building them, and finally sequencing and presenting them. Students will engage in the theory and practice of photography, refine their photographic technique, and create a conceptually devised and technically consistent portfolio. Emphasis is placed on the development of a strong conceptual foundation from which to approach the making and understanding of photography as an art form. This knowledge will be achieved through photographic assignments, slide lectures of relevant works, and in-class critiques. It can be repeated twice for credit.

Prerequisite: (ARTS 2356).

Co-requisite: SMTE 0097.  
ARTS 3366  Analogue Photography  
3 Semester Credit Hours  

An introductory studio course in analogue photography using film cameras and the silver gelatin darkroom process. While focusing on the fundamentals of black and white, analogue photography and printing techniques this course will assist students in producing a conceptually devised and technically consistent portfolio.

Prerequisite: (ARTS 2356).

Co-requisite: SMTE 0097.  
ARTS 3367  Digital Design Tools and Applications  
3 Semester Credit Hours  

This studio course explores the fundamental principles, standard creative processes and basic digital tools utilized in graphic design. The concepts and software learned are employed in projects specifically targeted to serve the professional and promotional needs of studio artists and design enthusiasts.

ARTS 4085  Senior Capstone  
0 Semester Credit Hours  

Required for all art students in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the BA in Art, BFA in Art studio track and the BFA with Teacher Certification in Art tracks. This course collects capstone materials for ARTS degrees. The course must be taken in the student's final semester before graduation.

ARTS 4301  Advanced Drawing  
3 Semester Credit Hours  

Emphasis on the development of content through drawing. Research on contemporary trends and process investigation will aid students in the development of visual ideas and lead to a cohesive body or work. May be taken three times for credit.

Prerequisite: ARTS 1317.

Co-requisite: SMTE 0097.  
ARTS 4302  Advanced Printmaking  
3 Semester Credit Hours  

Furthers competencies attained in Printmaking I and Intermediate I & II courses. May be taken three times for credit.

Prerequisite: ARTS 2333 and (ARTS 3307 or 3302).

Co-requisite: SMTE 0097.  
ARTS 4303  Advanced Painting  
3 Semester Credit Hours  

Assumes competencies attained in ARTS 3303. May be taken three times for credit.

Co-requisite: SMTE 0097.  
ARTS 4304  Advanced Sculpture  
3 Semester Credit Hours  

An interdisciplinary course in sculpture. Topics covered may include contemporary and traditional methods of object fabrication in metal, wood and clay, 3D printing, installation, video, performance or sound. Assumes competencies attained in any one of the following: ARTS 2326 or ARTS 3304 or ARTS 3305 or ARTS 3306. May be taken three times for credit.

Prerequisite: ARTS 2326, 3304, 3305 or 3306.

Co-requisite: SMTE 0097.  
ARTS 4324  Advanced Ceramics  
3 Semester Credit Hours  

Assumes competencies attained in ARTS 3324. May be taken three times for credit.

Co-requisite: SMTE 0097.  
ARTS 4350  Pre-Columbian Art of Mesoamerica  
3 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours)  

Explores the history of Pre-Columbian art from Mexico and Central America, from the Olmec through the Aztec cultures. May be taken three times for credit.

ARTS 4352  Modern Art of Mexico  
3 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours)  

Explores the history of art during the nineteenth and twentieth centuries in Mexico. May be taken three times for credit.

ARTS 4354  Global Currents in Contemporary Art  
3 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours)  

The course will cover key developments in contemporary art from the post-World War II era in the Western context to global currents in the present international arena. From a socio-political perspective, artistic tendencies will be considered as part of a trajectory that saw the center of the art world shift from being Euro- and Anglo-centric in the mid-twentieth century, to one without a discernible center in the early twenty-first century. Analysis of artworks from this decentralized cultural climate will focus on the evolution of conceptualism, the persistence of traditional modes of aesthetic practice, the role of the art market, and notions of environmentalism and sustainability as related to these "transnational transition." The course will consider works from Eastern Europe, South and Central America, the Caribbean, East/West/South/Southeast Asia, Oceania, and Africa.

ARTS 4356  Contemporary Art Since 1980  
3 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours)  

The course will examine the evolution of architecture, sculpture, painting, digital media, installation, and interdisciplinary arts in the global context from 1980 to the present, in light of the historical and intellectual background of the period. Topics covered will include the transition from postmodernism to contemporaneity, considering notions of appropriation, commodification, consumerism, memory, history, and globalization. Lectures will be constructed upon thematic analysis of contemporary, primary sources coupled with secondary source material, and complemented by presentation opportunities and class discussion.

ARTS 4365  Advanced Photography  
3 Semester Credit Hours  

Assumes competencies attained in ARTS 3365. Covers content as creative expression in addition to basic photographic skills. May be taken three times for credit.

Co-requisite: SMTE 0097.  
ARTS 4390  Topics in Art History  
3 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours)  

May be repeated when topics vary.

ARTS 4391  Topics in Studio Art  
3 Semester Credit Hours  

May be repeated when topics vary.

Co-requisite: SMTE 0097.  
ARTS 4396  Directed Individual Study  
1-3 Semester Credit Hours (1-3 Lecture Hours)  

See College description. Offered on application

Co-requisite: SMTE 0097.  
ARTS 4398  Applied Experience  
3 Semester Credit Hours (3 Lecture Hours)  

See College description. Offered on application.

Co-requisite: SMTE 0097.  
ARTS 4399  Museum and Gallery Studies  
3 Semester Credit Hours  

This course provides the student with a comprehensive practical, conceptual, and methodological introduction to museum and gallery practices. Safety and best practices will be explored in all aspects of contemporary museum and gallery operations, using theoretical and practice-based pedagogical approaches to explore curatorial and preparatory principles.

Graphic Design Courses

GRDS 1301  Foundations of Graphic Design  
3 Semester Credit Hours  

This course explores fundamental components of design theory, concept, and composition. Students will explore presentation techniques, printing processes, technical tactile skills associated with the field, defining and exploring a targeted audience, and appropriate software introductions.  Students will create printed works utilizing these skill sets.

GRDS 1302  Typography I  
3 Semester Credit Hours  

Through the use of lectures, demonstrations and studio work students are introduced to the art of typography. Cultural and aesthetic histories of familiar typefaces are reviewed. An emphasis is placed on the rules of type, best practices in type-setting, anatomy of letter forms, and appropriate uses of prescribed type faces. Hand rendering and digital media are used to give students a robust foundation in the study of typography.

Prerequisite: (GRDS 1301).

GRDS 2301  Historical Perspectives of Graphic Design  
3 Semester Credit Hours  

This studio course examines the history of graphic design from the invention of writing to present day composition.  Students will explore various movements in graphic design history and create design works that reflect these periods.

Prerequisite: GRDS 1301 and 1302.

GRDS 2302  Design Studio I  
3 Semester Credit Hours  

This course introduces the fundamental principles of the graphic design industry.  Students strengthen their vocabularies in design, theory, and visual communication.  Exploring various two-dimensional projects, students will conduct research, form opinions, foster ideas, solve communication problems, learn to analyze and discuss graphic design work, and continue to develop their own creative process.

Prerequisite: GRDS 1301 and 1302.

GRDS 2303  Concept & Making  
3 Semester Credit Hours  

This studio course offers an in-depth study of approaching concept and idea generation to produce relevant and innovative design solutions. Students will explore tactics and techniques for creating their own original assets to support their solutions. Photo and illustration creation, manipulation and output are studied in addition to the utilization of machines, technology and tools to fulfill creative curiosity.

Prerequisite: GRDS 1301 and 1302.

GRDS 2304  Typography II  
3 Semester Credit Hours  

Building on typography rules, conventions, and terminology, this course will explore inventive expression with type and letterform. Students will develop an advanced understanding of typography while using digital media to enhance the meaning of design and concept.

Prerequisite: GRDS 2303.

GRDS 3303  Design Experience & Awareness  
3 Semester Credit Hours  

This studio course examines the role of design in society. Students will learn how to use empathy and a human-centered design approach to develop appropriate design solutions. Additionally, students will examine the role of environmental graphics to create works that reflect an enhanced impact in experience for the user. The topics in this course are explored through lectures, research and the creative development of a body of work.

Prerequisite: GRDS 2302.

GRDS 3304  Publication Design  
3 Semester Credit Hours  

This studio course explores the foundations of publication and editorial design to expand students' design vocabulary.  Students will explore the role of a graphic designer/art director in developing effective and innovative communication for editorial design.

Prerequisite: GRDS 2304.

GRDS 3305  Packaging Design  
3 Semester Credit Hours  

This studio course will teach students how to develop creative strategies for problem solving in a client-based environment.  Focusing on three-dimensional packaging, students will learn how design applies to various surfaces, products, and audiences.

Prerequisite: GRDS 3303.

GRDS 3306  User Interface/User Experience  
3 Semester Credit Hours  

This hands-on course examines how content is organized and structured to create a digital experience for a user, and what role the designer plays in creating and shaping user experience. Students will learn the roadmap process for developing robust User Interface/User Experience designs, from research, ideation and site mapping, to the design of engaging layouts for screens and the creation of dynamic prototypes.

Prerequisite: GRDS 2302.

GRDS 3308  Copywriting  
3 Semester Credit Hours  

This studio course explores copywriting for design, advertising, and media. Students will create writing and messaging for a variety of media including print design, web design, and advertising design within a consumer-driven context.   

Prerequisite: GRDS 2303.

GRDS 3309  Building Websites  
3 Semester Credit Hours  

This studio course will cover designing and maintaining a scalable and functional website utilizing contemporary building platforms. The processes and techniques demonstrated will allow students to plan the project scope, to generate website content, and to adopt the tools and expansive functionality available while learning best practices for the platform.

Prerequisite: GRDS 2303.

GRDS 3310  Client Solutions  
3 Semester Credit Hours  

In this studio course, students will define client needs, explore the designer-client relationship and investigate research strategies and methods for developing effective print and digital deliverables to meet established business goals. The conceptual and visual standards pertinent to creating a brand are explored and applied across a variety of client-driven projects.

Prerequisite: GRDS 2302.

GRDS 4304  Emerging Technologies  
3 Semester Credit Hours  

This studio explores the use of evolving current and emerging technology in the field to enhance storytelling and the user experience in a variety of interactive media.

Prerequisite: GRDS 3306.

GRDS 4309  Design in Advertising  
3 Semester Credit Hours  

This studio course will teach students how to develop persuasive copywriting points and creative advertising concepts aimed at selling services and products in a client-based environment. By grounding design work in business and advertising concepts to target a chosen audience, effective solutions for utilization across various media such as print, digital, social media, and e-mail marketing platforms are explored.

Prerequisite: GRDS 3310 and 2304.

GRDS 4310  Portfolio and Professional Practices  
3 Semester Credit Hours  

In this capstone course, the student prepares for a professional career in the graphic design field by developing self-promotional materials, including a printed and digital portfolio, while focusing on professional practices and job-seeking strategies. Guest speakers will typically join the class for discussion, critique, lecture and hiring scenarios such as mock interviews. Students will display their work in an organized portfolio showcase gallery exhibition. Note: May be taken three times for credit.

Prerequisite: GRDS 3310 and 4304.

GRDS 4391  Topics in Graphic Design  
1,3 Semester Credit Hours  

Study of specialized topics and themes in Graphic Design. May be repeated when topics vary.

GRDS 4396  Directed Independent Study  
1,3 Semester Credit Hours  

See College description. Offered on application.

GRDS 4399  Internship  
3 Semester Credit Hours  

This course allows students to complete a semester long design-centric internship within their area of interest. Through the use of reflective journals, a project portfolio, and employer feedback, the student will report their experience to the supervising professor throughout the internship placement. May be repeated three times at a maximum of nine semester credit hours.

Prerequisite: GRDS 2302.