This course is meant to be an introduction to elements of design, spatial relationships, typography and imagery as they apply to practical visual solutions for self-promotion, resumes, logo design, Web design, and sequential systems. This course instructs the student in graphic design skills employing traditional and digital tools, materials and procedures employed in the communication arts industry. The focus will be on finding creative visual solutions to communication problems using technical skills.

The course introduces the interaction of text and image and the fundamental components of graphic communication. Students will develop and hone skills in working with text and image as they create solutions to a series of design problems. Students will be expected to expand their proficiency in all aspects of the design process, including the use of formal design principles, type as image, creative brainstorming, conceptualizing, critical thinking, collaboration, and presentation. This course will at the same time examine graphic design as a component of society, culture, and general history as well as present an overview of the first illustrators and designers.