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Visual Communication Program

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 Courses Descriptions, Portfolios, and Outlines
Download Visual Communications Course Catalog
  State Wide Syllabus
ARTcourses
PHOcourses
VIDcourses
VIScourses

ART Courses

ART111 – Drawing for Visualization
3 credits
Introduces students to the tools and methods of drawing. Presents drawing as a catalyst to seeing and a way of recording ideas. Gives students the necessary drawing preparation for the study of graphic design.
Student Portfolio    
Course Outline    
ART112 – Electronic Layout
3 credits

Provides intermediate instruction in practical and creative page layout. Uses an industry standard desktop publishing package designed for single and multi-page documents as a tool for executing layouts. Produces samples for student portfolios, which may include stationery, charts, forms, brochures, and calendars.
Student Portfolio    
Course Outline    
ART114 – Graphic Design I
3 credits

Provides introductory instruction in design for communication primarily for print media. Teaches the steps in design development with meaningful message and concept. Produces samples for student portfolios, which may include elements or comprehensive projects in logo, stationery, newspaper, magazine, billboard, and interface design, etc.
Student Portfolio    
Course Outline    
ART115 – Typography
3 credits

Addresses the issues pertinent to the proper and creative use of type and the enhancement of communication. Covers the history of type, typographic terminology, design, copyfitting attention to aesthetics, common sense and how we read.
Student Portfolio    
Course Outline    
ART116 – Electronic Illustration
3 credits

Provides intermediate instruction in illustration techniques using computer software designed for creating illustrations, technical, drawing, logos, packaging, maps, charts, and graphs. Emphasis is on preparing effective, creative illustrations for various media applications in an efficient, productive manner. Produces samples for student portfolios.
Student Portfolio    
Course Outline    
ART120 – Life and Object Drawing I
3 credits
This introductory course will result in the advancement of basic drawing skills utilizing the human figure, natural and manufactured objects. Basic techniques and creative processes will be explored through expressive use and exploration of a variety of materials and techniques. Emphasis will be placed on developing basic quality draftsmanship with a focus on proportion and structure, specifically by drawing only from life sources.
Course Outline    
ART202 – Special Projects I
3 credits

Provides advanced instruction in specific areas of student interest or in areas where there is a need to strengthen skills. Requires performance and completed work to be portfolio quality and reflect applicability to the main areas of the program. Suggested projects may include annual reports, catalogs, newsletters, menus, direct mail and/or other multi-piece or multi-page communications. Also may include actual community or non-profit projects.
Student Portfolio    
Course Outline    
ART217 – Graphic Design II
3 credits

Provides intermediate instruction in design for communication primarily for print media. Further explores design theory by applying concepts to achieve meaningful marketing and advertising results. Produces samples for student portfolios, which may include elements or comprehensive projects appropriate to trade/industrial advertising, brochures, flyers, pamphlets, posters, direct mail and/or consumer magazine advertising/branding, etc.
Student Portfolio    
Course Outline    
ART218 – Digital Production
3 credits

Addresses the issues of electronic prepress (preparing electronic files for digital production). Topics covered include the tasks of prepress, paper knowledge, the entire printing production process (complete with requirements of the process) and electronic file management. A strong emphasis is placed on prepress terminology and jargon.
Course Outline    
ART219 – Graphic Design III
3 credits

Provides advanced instruction and experience with design projects/branding identity, which communicate a common theme or campaign through several different media – magazine, billboard, radio, television, direct mail, brochures, point of purchase, sales promotions and/or package design, etc. Produces samples for student portfolios.
Student Portfolio    
Course Outline    
ART220 – Life and Object Drawing II
3 credits

This course is a continuation of Life and Object Drawing I. Rendering abilities will continue to advance with drawing techniques utilizing the human figure, natural and manufactured objects, specifically from life (not photographs). More advanced techniques and creative processes will be explored through expressive use and exploration of a variety of materials and techniques. Emphasis will be placed on developing a higher level of quality draftsmanship with a focus on proportion and structure.
Course Outline    
ART222- Three-Dimensional Design
3 credits

An introductory course into the thought processes and manual skills needed in three-dimensional design. Basic techniques and creative processes will be explored through expressive use and exploration of a variety of materials and techniques. Critical thinking, problem-solving and manual techniques will be emphasized equally.
Course Outline    
ART231- Painting I
3 credits

An introductory course aimed at the development of painting skills, techniques, and aesthetic sensibilities. Explores and experiments with basic painting mediums, which may include: Watercolors, Acrylics, and Oils in varying degrees. Course builds visual thinking skills and methods for channeling creative energies that enable a lifetime of personal artistic expression.
 
ART231- Painting II
3 credits

An extension of the skills and concepts introduced in Painting I. Emphasis is on individual experimentation and the development of more advanced critical and technical skills in the discipline. Course continues to build visual thinking skills and methods for channeling creative energies that further enable a lifetime of personal artistic expression.
 
ART241- Sculpture I
3 credits

An introductory course to sculpture which builds on experiences gained from 3-Dimensional Design. The course develops a student’s understanding of the aesthetics, vocabulary and history of sculpture and relief. Emphasis is placed on conceptualization and fabrication of sculptural forms through modeling in clay and casting in plaster. Course introduces beginning welding techniques.
 
ART242 – Sculpture II
3 credits

An extension of the skills and concepts introduced in Sculpture I. Emphasis is on individual expression and the development of more advanced techniques utilizing a variety of materials which could include metal, wood, stone, and found objects. Course further explores casting and welding.
 

PHO Courses

 
PHO104 – Basic Photography
3 credits

Covers basic black and white photographic theory and technique. Includes basic black and white darkroom processes and physics of light and filters. Study of camera and lenses, characteristics of films and papers and the chemistry of emulsions, exposure, and development.
Student Portfolio    
Course Outline    
PHO106 – Studio Practices
3 credits

Introduction to studio work in black and white photography using continuous light sources. Basic set-up techniques and lighting methods for a variety of subject matter. Practice with photoflood lamps and quartz lamps, both floods and spots, and a variety of equipment used to modify light.
Student Portfolio    
Course Outline    
PHO107 – Intermediate Photography
3 credits

This course further develops advanced camera skills and black and white photographic vision. Special attention is placed on the practice and theory of the zone system. The course introduces special darkroom techniques and processes and refines black and white printing and processing skills. It will also emphasize good composition and the use of photography as a communications tool.
Student Portfolio    
Course Outline    
PHO109 – Studio Lighting
3 credits

Further explores multiple lighting set-ups, studio electronic flash, location lighting, and special effects. Emphasis will be put on conceptualizing the photograph from start to finish.
Student Portfolio    
Course Outline    
PHO201 – Color Photography
3 credits

Develops camera and laboratory skills needed for color negative and color positive processes through work with state-of-the-art equipment and techniques. Encompasses color psychology and aesthetics as well as the physics of light in color photography. Color photographic theory will be emphasized.
Student Portfolio    
Course Outline    
PHO204 – Commercial Photography
3 credits

Introduces more advanced studio and lab techniques used in advertising and industrial photography. Emphasizes creative problem solving applications toward advanced commercial photographic assignments.
Student Portfolio    
Course Outline    
PHO208 – Independent Study
3 credits

Provides students with opportunities to design a project for specific areas. Requires students to develop a plan to show what the project outcome/result will be. Restricts work to the program area and must be portfolio quality.
Student Portfolio    
Course Outline    
PHO218- Fine Art Photography
3 credits

Examines current issues in non-commercial photography. Explores attitudes of photographers and critics on a wide range of topics through directed reading, class discussion, gallery visits and laboratory study. Studio required.
Course Outline    

VID Courses

VID106 – Video Producing and Planning
3 credits

This course is designed to provide you with an overview of the video production process, and help you learn the terms and concepts used in the industry. This understanding will serve as the foundation for subsequent courses in video or multimedia.
Course Outline    
VID110 – Production Editing
3 Credits

An introduction to non-linear, computer-based editing techniques and post-production skills. Focuses on knowledge and skills necessary to edit video and audio productions. Develops visual flow and continuity, and applies principles of visual design to video editing.
Course Outline    
VID111- Studio & Field Production I
This course is designed to provide hands on training in basic technical skills. Students will be provided with an overview of the video production process, and help the student learn the terms and concepts used in the industry. This understanding will serve as the foundation for subsequent courses in video technology.
Course Outline    
VID113 – Introduction to Film
3 Credits

An introduction to understanding and appreciating movies and film. Students will analyze films for narrative and story telling properties, cinematography, acting, editing and sound design.
Course Outline    
VID202 – Studio and Field Production II
3 Credits

Second in a series. Focuses on knowledge and skills necessary to create and execute good video and audio productions. This course is designed to provide the student with a more complete view of the process of videography techniques and the video production process. Student will use the terminology and concepts used in the industry.
Course Outline    
VID203 – Studio and Field Production III
3 Credits

Third in a series. Advanced studio and field production skills. Focuses on writing, producing and shooting projects both in the studio and on-location. Projects include remote video "shoot" planning, location scouting and site preparation, and hands-on studio practicing. Focuses on knowledge and skills necessary to create and execute good video and audio productions.
Course Outline    
VID204– Studio and Field Production IV
3 Credits

Fourth in a series. Masters studio and field production skills with a focus on production, programming and project management both in the studio and on-location.
Course Outline    

VIS Courses

VIS101 – Fundamentals of Design
3 credits

This course introduces students to fundamental design theory. Investigations into design theory and color dynamics will provide experiences in applying design theory, ideas and creative problem solving. Provides design experiences in applying design theories and concepts, and creative problem solving.
Student Portfolio    
Course Outline    
VIS102 – Fundamentals of Imaging
3 credits

Introduces students to a full range of image input technology and manipulation including conventional photography, digital imaging, computer scanners. Students will learn to communicate concepts and ideas through various imaging devices. Explores composition and fosters creativity.
Student Portfolio    
Course Outline    
VIS103 – Interactive Media I
3 credits

Explores various software programs involved in creating multi-media presentations, digital movies, digital animation, introductory scripting through a series of short projects. Explore the role of interactive in contemporary marketing and design.
Student Portfolio    
Course Outline    
VIS105 – Video and Sound
3 credits

An introduction to the field of video technology. Students will learn the basics of planning, shooting, editing and post-producing video and sound. Projects include exercises in technical and creative skills application, equipment usage and production techniques.
Course Outline    
VIS110 – Web Design I
3 credits

An introductory level course, which focuses on the tools, strategies, and techniques for web site design, architecture, navigation, language and production. Explores the methods for creating successful web sites from concept to implementation. Examines the process of integrating text, graphics, audio, and video for effective communication of information.
Student Portfolio    
Course Outline    
VIS115 – Computer Graphics
3 credits

Introduces students to the computer’s use in graphic design. Focuses on basic computer terminology and use, mastering fundamental skills, and developing efficient working styles. Develops skills by creating publications with page layout software.
Student Portfolio    
VIS201 – Electronic Imaging
3 credits

Examines the area of still video photography and various electronic darkroom software packages. Provides experience with the electronic darkroom environment including editing processes, manipulation of images in black and white and color, and working with various output devices. Discusses four-color separations and pre-press procedures.
Student Portfolio    
Course Outline    
VIS205 – Business Practices
3 credits

Examines legal and business issues affecting the professional visual artist. Examines copyright and “work for hire,” marketing and self-promotion, estimating and pricing, insurance and liability, and the computer’s role in managing a business.
Course Outline    
VIS207 – Portfolio
3 credits

Provides advanced facilitation focusing on the students’ final preparation for the workforce. Requires an evaluation and portfolio development plan to be approved by the instructor. Finalizes project work demonstrating acquired knowledge and skills, along with resume and cover letter, for presentation to prospective employers. Also provides students with the opportunity to use one credit for field of study.
Course Outline    
VIS209 – 3-D Rendering & Animation I
3 credits

Examines the virtual world of 3D and how it can be applied as an illustration and animation element in multimedia. Students will explore navigation, modeling, rendering, animation, and camera and lighting techniques.
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Course Outline    
VIS210 – Web Design II
3 credits

Further focuses on the tools, strategies, and techniques for web site design, architecture, navigation, language and production. Explores more in depth the methods for creating successful web sites from concept to implementation. Examines the process of integrating text, graphics, audio, and video for effective communication of information.
Course Outline    
VIS211 Interactive Media II
3 credits

Further explores various software programs involved in creating; multi-media presentations, digital movies, digital animation and scripting.
Student Portfolio    
Course Outline    
VIS212 3-D Rendering & Animation II
3 credits

Further examines the virtual world of 3D and how it can be applied as an illustration and animation element in multimedia. Students will expand on navigation, modeling, rendering, animation, and camera and lighting techniques.
Student Portfolio    
Course Outline    
VIS280 Co-op/Internship
1, 2, or 3 credits

Students work at job sites that are specifically related to career objectives. Provides on-the-job experience while earning course credit.
 
VIS282 – Intro to Theatre
3 credits

This course is an introduction to the theatrical experience. This course will explore this experience from the perspective of audience and theatre artists. This will include the preparation and delivery of play scenes to an audience. The student will study the processes of preparing and presenting effective theatre performances.