Course Descriptions Main List
GRD – Graphic Design
All courses are alphabetized by course code. All courses are to be pursued in a normal sequence with prerequisite courses taken as indicated. Provided for each course is the following information: course number and title, and number of class, laboratory, clinical/shop/work experience (if any), and credit hours.
GRD 110 Typography I (2 2 3)
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 117 Design Career Exploration (2 0 2)
This course covers opportunities in the graphic design field and employment requirements. Topics include evaluation of career choices, operations, structure of advertising and graphic design businesses, and related business issues. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate an understanding of the graphic design field and consider an appropriate personal direction of career specialization.
GRD 121 Drawing Fundamentals I (1 3 2)
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)
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. Prerequisites: ART 131, DES 125, or GRD 121.
GRD 142 Graphic Design II (2 4 4)
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. Prerequisites: ART 121, DES 135, DES 136 or GRD 141.
GRD 230 Technical Illustration (1 3 2)
This course introduces technical and industrial illustration techniques. Topics include orthographic, isometric, linear perspective, and exploded views. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate competence in various technical rendering techniques. Prerequisites: ART 131, DES 125, or GRD 121.
GRD 241 Graphic Design III (2 4 4)
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. Prerequisites: DES 136 and GRD 142.
GRD 271 Multimedia Design I (1 3 2)
This course introduces the fundamentals of multimedia design and production for computer-related presentations. Topics include interface design, typography, storyboarding, scripting, simple animation, graphics, digital audiovideo, and copyright issues. Upon completion, students should be able to design and produce multimedia presentations. Prerequisites: GRD 151 or GRA 151.
GRD 272 Multimedia Design II (1 3 2)
This course is a continuation of GRD 271. Emphasis is placed on advanced animation, specialized software, quality control, and cross-platform delivery, as well as problems associated with delivery media and interactivity. Upon completion, students should be able to produce multimedia presentations and determine and adapt to technical specifications for delivery. Prerequisite: GRD 271.
GRD 280 Portfolio Design (2 4 4)
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. Prerequisites: GRD 142 and GRD 152 or GRA 152. Corequisite: GRA 154.
GRD 281 Design of Advertising (2 0 2)
This course explores the origins, roles, scope, forms, and development of advertising. Emphasis is placed on advertising development from idea through production and the interrelationship of marketing to types of advertising, media, and organizational structure. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate an understanding of the complexities and relationships involved in advertising design.

