The Mission of the Graphic Design Bachelor of Science Degree program is to provide a focus on conceptual thinking while developing graphic design technical and creative skills, including an introduction to the theory and practice of print and web design production, electronic publishing, graphic imagery, and sales promotion. Graduates are prepared to grow their careers from entry-level positions in the graphic design field through practice of lifelong learning. Graphic Design graduates are prepared to pursue entry-level positions and to meet the challenges of the continually changing marketplace and Graphic Design profession.
Glossy magazines, digital media, corporate stationery, television graphics, and billboards – all are composed of images, design, and printed words that work together to sell products and services, or to convey messages. This is the fundamental concept of graphic design, and it’s the basis of some of today’s most dynamic fields – advertising, publishing, television and interactive communications.
The Graphic Design program at The Art Institute of York, Pennsylvania is the first step toward a career in commercial graphics. Initially, students can develop an understanding of color and composition, design and typography, and learn accurate drawing skills. As they progress through the program, students are trained in creative problem solving and have the opportunity to learn to offer solutions that are effective in the business world.
Emphasis is placed on concept development and creative problem solving. Skills and techniques of computer graphics and electronic imaging are taught by master professionals. Tools include scanners, digital cameras, and computer-based hardware and software. Advanced training includes the execution of assignments encountered by professionals in the field.
Curriculum
Total Credit Hours: 180 — 12 Quarters
Each class listed is a 3 credit, 4 clock hours per week course. Each quarter is 11 weeks. Three quarters or 33 weeks is defined as an academic year, during which a full time student would earn 48 quarter credits. Graphic Design students graduate with a total of 180 quarter credit hours. Graduates earn a Bachelor of Science Degree.
Some courses are offered on a rotating basis. Students should consult their Academic Advisor and/or Department Chair when creating their course schedule to ensure they are following the recommended sequence.
G120 Life Drawing for Graphic Design Top
3 Credits
Prerequisite: none
CC110, CC113
Students will draw from live models and examine the anatomy, proportion, surface planes and movement of the human form. Beginning with basic gesture drawings, the student will progress to sketching detailed figure representations. The student will explore the relationship of muscle structure, skeletal structure, light and shadow, movement and form in the tangible representation of a three-dimensional object on a two-dimensional plane.
G121 Concept Development Top
3 Credits
Prerequisite: none
This course will emphasize the conceptualization processes of art and design in solving given problems. The student will use creative problem solving and research techniques, specifically, problem identification, analysis, brainstorming and idea refinement. Portfolio-quality projects will be produced throughout the course of the term.
G131 Typography Top
3 Credits
Prerequisite: none
This course is an introduction to the history of the evolution and application of typography for the perception of meaning, intention, and personality of the written word.
G132 History and Analysis of Design Top
3 Credits
Prerequisite: CC112
CC112
A study of the art movements that have structured the field of graphic design covering political, social, and economic influences and the analysis of contemporary design and design trends.
G133 Digital Image Manipulation I Top
3 Credits
Prerequisite: CPU101
CPU101
This course is designed to explore photo retouching, image manipulation and the creation of original artwork using computers and appropriate software. Compositing, color adjustment and effects through the use of filters will be stressed.
G135 Graphic Symbolism Top
3 Credits
Prerequisite: none
CC111, CC112, CC115
This course examines the importance of graphic symbolism in design. Logos and other symbolic images will be examined in historic and contemporary contexts. Graphic elements, simplified imagery and abstract shapes as well as typography will be utilized to create individual logo designs and images.
G210 Mixed Media Top
3 Credits
Prerequisite: CC110
CC110
This course explores the basic aspects of drawing and painting as related to illustration. The application of various media and techniques is emphasized while developing a series of illustrative studies.
G211 Advanced Typography Top
3 Credits
Prerequisite: G131
G131
This course will explore printed communication and the use of typography as an exclusive element of design. The course will focus on the development of marketable, original and creative problem-solving solutions with an emphasis on professional presentation techniques.
G212 Electronic Design Top
3 Credits
Prerequisite: none
CC112, CPU101
This course will explore various means of indicating, placing and manipulating visual elements in page design, systematically developing strong and creative layout solutions by means of cumulative, conceptual design process. The ability to effectively integrate photographs, illustrations, display and type will be developed using page composition software.
G223 Digital Image Manipulation II Top
3 Credits
Prerequisite: G133
G133
This course is designed to enhance further the skills acquired in previous image manipulation and technology-based classes. Emphasis will be placed on advanced applications and the identification of the best solution for an assigned task. Integration of programs to achieve a required product will also be emphasized.
G224 Design Principles Top
3 Credits
Prerequisite: CC112
CC112
This course will concentrate on utilizing design principles and theories in problem solving, focusing on the importance of layout composition. Emphasis will be on the process of design development from roughs to comprehensives, layout, and the use of grid systems for multi-component layouts. Critical analysis will be applied through the usage of type and layout to create clear, communicative design.
G225 Design Marketing Top
3 Credits
Prerequisite: none
ENG101, G121
The role of marketing in design will be the focus of this course. An analysis of concepts, consumer needs, target audiences, strategy and company vision will be the basis for developing advertising and other business communication applications.
G230 Digital Illustration I Top
3 Credits
Prerequisite: CPU101
CPU101
Students will produce computer-generated compositions as related to the advertising, design and illustration fields.
G231 Corporate Identity Top
3 Credits
Prerequisite: G212
G212
The role of design in a corporate identity program will be the focus of this course. An analysis of corporate objectives and practical applications will be the basis for developing a structured corporate image system including logo design and other business communication applications.
G310 Dimensional Design Top
3 Credits
Prerequisite: none
G131, G223
Students will explore 3-dimensional designs and processes, and how they relate to advertising design. Familiarization with materials, processes and procedures of 3D design and the requirements necessary to scale, and construct various dimensional pieces.
G311 Art Direction Top
3 Credits
Prerequisite: none
CC112, G121
This course will examine the role of the art director in producing multi-faceted design projects. Exercises will train students in coordinating creative efforts from concept to finished product. A team environment is emphasized and aims to acquaint the students with the necessity of leadership ability, communication and negotiating skills.
G312 Design and Technology Top
3 Credits
Prerequisite: G230
G230
This course will utilize computer applications interfacing the graphic and applied arts. Students will produce contemporary advertising and graphic design portfolio projects. Emphasis will be placed on creative concepts, good typography usage, image manipulation and presentation techniques.
G320 Intermediate Illustration Top
3 Credits
Prerequisite: none
G133, G210
This course will focus on various applications of media and techniques in conjunction with concept development, research, and references. Drawing, designing, and painting skills will be further refined through illustrative compositions. Contemporary illustrators and their techniques will also be discussed and studied.
G321 Design Team Production Top
3 Credits
Prerequisite: G312
G312
This course examines the structures and interdisciplinary communications skills utilized by various members of a creative design team. The processes of concept development, marketability, application and design creation are emphasized. Students work as members of a team to research client needs, develop design solutions and present finished work.
G322 Foundations of Electronic Production Top
3 Credits
Prerequisite: G133
G133
This course will introduce students to the electronic preparation of material for production. Typesetting, pagination, image reproduction, color specifications, trapping procedures, binding and finishing techniques will be explored.
G330 Graphic Illustration Top
3 Credits
Prerequisite: none
This course will concentrate on the application of design elements in a stylized illustration. Attention to detail and rendering techniques will be emphasized and refined.
G331 Contemporary Typography Top
3 Credits
Prerequisite: G211
G211
This course will explore the current design trends in typography. The work of contemporary type designers: David Carson, Rodney Sheldon Fehsenfeld, Bill Nelson and others will be analyzed. Emphasis will be placed on experimentation of creative, innovative, new-wave type designing.
G332 Packaging Graphics Top
3 Credits
Prerequisite: none
This course will focus on design principles that are applied to the development of three-dimensional product graphics. Materials, processes, industry guidelines and restrictions will be addressed as they pertain to surface treatments of packaging.
G410 Editorial Illustration Top
3 Credits
Prerequisite: none
G210, G330
This course will explore various conceptual illustrators and their visions. It will examine the integration of drawing, painting and design as expressed in illustrative compositions. Emphasis is placed on conceptual development, research, references and the application of various media and techniques. The importance of visual thinking and how to express a story through illustration will be discussed.
G412 Advertising Design Top
3 Credits
Prerequisite: none
G131, G312
This course will explore the various aspects of advertising design communications with the development of creative, original concepts. The preparation of concepts will utilize the principles of design, typography, color and problem solving skills and stress attention to detail, deadlines, professional presentation and cultural diversity. The course will also delve into the inner workings of advertising agencies and graphic design studios, contracts and billing along with the business ethics of the design and advertising fields.
G420 Portfolio Preparation for Graphic Design Top
3 Credits
Prerequisite: none
150 credits successfully completed in the Graphic Design bachelor?s degree program
This course will focus on the refinement of previous works into a comprehensive collection representative of graphic design skills. Emphasis will be on conceptual development, design, craftsmanship and presentation.
G422 Communication Design Top
3 Credits
Prerequisite: none
G331, G412
This course will explore the role of design in corporate communications. The analysis of corporate objectives and target markets will be the basis for designing corporate communications that use typography and visuals effectively.
G427 Basic Web Animation Top
3 Credits
Prerequisite: G444
G444
This course utilizes basic Web animation techniques and software for multimedia and Web site design. Design solutions include animated presentations with images, sound and motion. Basic navigation skills will be covered along with drawing, painting, and incorporating text. Special effects and multimedia movies will also be explored.
G430 Portfolio for Graphic Design Top
3 Credits
Prerequisite: none
165 credits successfully completed in the Graphic Design bachelor?s degree program
This course will prepare students for job interviews by helping them compile a portfolio. Students will demonstrate their conceptual, design, craftsmanship and other skills as they assemble and refine their portfolio pieces. Working individually with an instructor each student will select representative pieces, showcasing work that reflects a unique style.
G431 Digital Illustration II Top
3 Credits
Prerequisite: none
G230, G330
This course will concentrate on the concept and originality of ideas in digital illustration and will also explore vector-based applications to be used as tools to create digital illustrations. Illustrations created in this course will be applied to design formats and page layouts.
G444 Interactive Portfolio Design Top
3 Credits
Prerequisite: none
G133, G230
This course introduces design and development concepts for Graphic Design students who will identify, interpret, and implement the roles and responsibilities of Web industry design team members. Web page scripting skills, aesthetic de-sign principles such as page layout, type design, imaging, and development of Web pages will be used. Students will design and develop the overall identity for a self promotional Website showcasing their graphic design portfolio.
