Integrated Media: Graphic Design Digital Assistant - Certificate
Career Pathway Certificate of Completion | mhcc.edu/IntegratedMedia
Faculty Adviser
Dale Gronso: 503-491-6992 | Room AC1384 | Dale.Gronso@mhcc.edu
Students that complete the first year of the Graphic Design program may also earn this Career Pathway Certificate (CPCC). It provides students with the basic tools and processes required for working in the creative field.
Students will learn how to understand, manipulate, and manage the elements of design – color, composition, and typography – in order to create original designs. Adobe Creative Cloud is used as the core toolset. Within the framework of design and production, students will also: create their own vector art; edit and use raster images; and create complex typographic compositions. Students who complete the CPCC are prepared to work in entry level positions as production artists.
All core (IM, GD) courses must be completed within 10 years in order for the certificate to be awarded.
Certificate Outcomes
At the completion of this certificate, students should be able to:
- Apply critical thinking and problem-solving skills
- Collaborate effectively with others
- Demonstrate curiosity, imagination, and ability to adapt to changing technology
- Use effective oral and written communication
- Access and analyze information
First Quarter | ||
---|---|---|
Fall | Credits | |
GD150 | Principles of Graphic Design | 5 |
IM120 | Computers and File Management | 1 |
IM122 | Basic Image Editing | 1 |
IM123 | Basic Sound Editing | 1 |
IM124 | Basic Non-linear Editing | 1 |
IM125 | Basic Page Layout | 1 |
IM178 | Integrated Media Overview | 4 |
Credits | 14 | |
Second Quarter | ||
Winter | ||
GD151 | Composition and Production | 5 |
GD160 | Typography Systems | 5 |
IM165 | Image Manipulation | 4 |
Credits | 14 | |
Third Quarter | ||
Spring | ||
GD152 | Concept, Creativity and Unity | 5 |
GD165 | Digital Illustration | 4 |
IM190 | Web for Media | 2 |
Credits | 11 | |
Total Credits | 39 |
GD150 Principles of Graphic Design
Credits 5Fall
Registration Requirement: RD090, WR090 and MTH020, each with a grade of "C" or better; or placement above stated course levels. Co-requisite: IM178, IM120, IM122, IM123, IM124 and IM125.
This course develops basic conceptual, critical viewing and technical skills in graphic design. The elements of design: line, shape, space, form, texture, value and color are explored through developing visual images and compositions. Areas of design practice are introduced as well as the steps involved in the design process. Students will use industry standard software to create digital artwork and production files.
Additional Course Fee: $50.00
View Course Outcomes:
- Apply core color theory principles in creating contrast and hierarchy within a design solution
- Apply the principles of design: Hierarchy, Organization, Unity, Variety, Proportion, Scale, Rhythm, Repetition, Proximity, Grouping, Balance & Composition
- Demonstrate ability to use graphic software to create artwork and build simple print-ready digital files
- Demonstrate the design process through research, exploration, modification, application and evaluation of ideas
- Demonstrate the positioning and combination of graphic elements in a digital layout utilizing multiple compositional approaches
- Explore different levels of simplification and abstraction within 2-dimensional design solutions
- Identify the core elements of design: line, shape, space, size, texture, color & typography
GD151 Composition and Production
Credits 5Winter
Registration Requirement: GD150.
Students apply the principles of visual perception and design to investigate the relationship of elements in compositions. Grid systems are introduced to structurally integrate and organize type and graphics. Both the aesthetic and technical aspects of color are deeply explored. Students continue to develop precise digital skills in Illustrator and InDesign as files are prepared for print reproduction.
Additional Course Fee: $50.00
View Course Outcomes:
- Apply multiple design elements to create a cohesive series of design projects
- Apply the core elements and principles of design
- Demonstrate increasing aptitude with professional layout and illustration software applications, features and tools
- Demonstrate proper use of digital tools for professional print reproduction and preflighting
- Identify appropriate technology, tools and techniques to create, organize and modify graphic elements
- Prepare accurate, multi-color digital files for RGB, CMYK and Spot color reproduction
- Use descriptive typographic and design vocabulary during critiques, class discussions and in projects
- Utilize grid systems to structurally integrate both type and graphic elements in a composition
GD152 Concept, Creativity and Unity
Credits 5Spring
Registration Requirement: GD151.
This course explores developing effective creative concepts in both 2- and 3-D formats that are part of a unified visual system. Students document their research, investigate multiple concepts and apply their knowledge of design styles to a multifaceted project. A strong emphasis is placed on quality craftsmanship and preparing complex digital files using the Adobe Creative Suite.
Additional Course Fee: $50.00
View Course Outcomes:
- Achieve visual unity between multiple pieces of a branded collateral campaign
- Apply critical viewing skills when evaluating design solutions
- Choose appropriate materials and employ processes that enhance the final solution
- Demonstrate increasingly efficient use of the Adobe Creative Suite applications, features, and tools
- Articulate design styles by their characteristic typography, color schemes and visual components
- Prepare and print graphic files for unique resolution, size, and output needs
GD160 Typography Systems
Credits 5Winter
Registration Requirement: GD150.
Students learn to analyze, decode and encode written information through the study of typographic principles. Hierarchy, readability and legibility are applied to both long and short text documents. Students gain proficiency in expressing ideas through type choices and combinations in printed and screen-based applications.
Additional Course Fee: $50.00
View Course Outcomes:
- Apply appropriate type-face combinations for a variety of formats and applications
- Apply common grid structures for the composition of complex page layouts
- Apply different positions, scales and placements of typographic elements for multiple page sizes and orientations
- Demonstrate fluency with the use of the type tools available in both InDesign and Illustrator software
- Identify and apply common typographic elements used in multi-page compositions
- Identify, classify, measure, specify and describe typographic attributes
- Utilize custom designed letterforms to reflect content or concept within a design
GD165 Digital Illustration
Credits 4Spring
Registration Requirement: GD150.
Image development and exploration using a variety of digital illustration techniques is covered in this course. Project phases include developing iterations, producing a mood board and documenting visual research. Students work with photographic and hand-drawn material and combine both raster and vector images using Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop.
Additional Course Fee: $50.00
View Course Outcomes:
- Apply the appropriate digital tools and techniques to recreate common illustrative styles
- Demonstrate the appropriate combination of typography and illustration to maintain visual hierarchy and compositional balance
- Demonstrate the use of basic illustrative tools to visualize depth within a 2-dimensional image
- Prepare digital files to present completed designs as in-situ applications
- Research and purposefully reference stylistic qualities of art or design history within a design solution
- Translate a process or sequence into a cohesive series of illustrated visuals
- Translate the research and insight of a narrative into a visual interpretation
GD248 History of Graphic Design
Credits 3Fall
Registration Requirement: RD090 and WR090 with a grade of "C" or better; or placement above stated course levels.
This course provides an overview of the major developments within the History of Graphic Design as an art form. The course will cover themes, influences and styles from the Gutenberg's printing press to the contemporary digital era of design. Specific areas of study will include the advent of the printed word, the influences of the Industrial Revolution, modern digital technologies, and world history's effect on Design. There will be a content focus on specific design movements such as (but not limited to) Dada, Bauhaus, Art Deco, Art Nouveau, Constructivism, Swiss Style, and Postmodernism. This course is intended for Graphic Design majors and non-majors.
View Course Outcomes:
- Analyze and critically respond to contemporary designs influenced by historic movements
- Articulate the formal elements (line, shape, color, composition, etc...) that make each presented design style unique
- Describe on the relationship of specific Design movements to the politics and events of the associated time periods
- Describe on the relationship of technology in the creation and distribution of design through the presented history
- Identify key historical movements in graphic design from around the world from the industrial revolution to present day
GD250 Developing Brand Identity
Credits 5Fall
Registration Requirement: GD152.
The examination of visual, conceptual and communication factors as applied to brand identity development. Focus is on brand messaging to internal and external target audiences and the development of business marketing strategies through the application of a visual identity system.
Additional Course Fee: $50.00
View Course Outcomes:
- Apply appropriate tools, techniques and technologies to produce production ready solutions
- Apply concept development through research, ideation and visual/verbal invention
- Create a comprehensive branding system for a company or organization
- Identify a company or organization's competitors, target audience and media channels
- Prepare project prototypes and documentation
- Prepare solutions with strong regard for market audience and client outcomes
GD251 Advanced Typographic Layout
Credits 4Winter
Registration Requirement: GD250.
The research, development, organization, design and visual presentation of complex editorial structures such as magazines, catalogs and guidebooks are covered in this course. Students learn to develop visual narrative and storytelling skills to capture and hold the reader's attention. Strategies for design and content development as well as digital production and distribution via print or mobile devices are addressed.
Additional Course Fee: $50.00
View Course Outcomes:
- Apply advanced master-page techniques, paragraph styles, and character styles to a multi page document
- Apply clear editorial and art direction to a multi-page production
- Demonstrate an understanding of audience and content in the creation and selection of imagery and compositions
- Demonstrate proper file management and production techniques for all assignments
- Identify the challenges of preparing content for print and digital environments (web, tablet, mobile, etc...)
- Identify the differences of pagination for different design and production methods
- Utilize appropriate techniques and design processes to optimize efficiency in production of a multi-page publication
GD252 Digital Media Studio
Credits 5Spring
Registration Requirement: GD251.
The capstone project course is designed to showcase a student's overall conceptual ability and technical competence. Students will demonstrate their understanding of all phases of the design process from research, to implementation, to final critical analysis in a complex, multi-faceted project.
Additional Course Fee: $50.00
View Course Outcomes:
- Apply project management skills by effective scheduling, benchmarking and time management
- Apply the researched concepts and developed graphic elements as a unified campaign at a professional level of execution
- Assemble and design documentation of the research process and design development
- Defend the selection of imagery, concepts, techniques, and media approaches used to develop strategies and deliverables
- Evaluate design solutions with strong regard for target audience and project or client outcomes
- Explore concept development through a variety of ideation processes
- Investigate effective typography, organizational strategies and appropriate use of digital media
GD260 Professional Practice for Graphic Designers
Credits 4Fall
Registration Requirement: Second-year standing in an Integrated Media program.
This course prepares students for careers in media as professional Graphic Designers. Topics included are intellectual property, legal, ethical and contractual issues as well as record-keeping for freelancing in the creative services. Students prepare to search for internships and/or employment by writing resumes, learning networking skills, assembling and assessing initial portfolio projects.
Additional Course Fee: $40.00
View Course Outcomes:
- Demonstrate the effective implementation of core business documents required for entrepreneurship
- Determine personal and professional goals to achieve upon graduation
- Develop the appropriate documentation necessary to gain employment within the creative services industry
- Explore the process of determining the value of design services as an employee and freelancer
- Identify appropriate strategies for finding employment within the creative services industries
- Identify key issues of intellectual property rights that affect Designers as creators and users of copyrighted materials
IM120 Computers and File Management
Credit 1Fall
Registration Requirement: Concurrent registration in IM120, IM122, IM123, IM124, IM125 and IM178, plus student's choice of GD150, IM150, or TV150 is required.
Introduces computer hardware, network and file management skills necessary for producing digital media. Students learn to identify, organize, share, back up, archive and view digital files on local, networked and cloud-based storage locations.
Additional Course Fee: $100.00
View Course Outcomes:
- Correlate computer operating system interface metaphors with their underlying functions
- Describe how and why to organize digital files and folders for effective workflow
- Describe how to install, organize, locate and identify digital font files
- Describe the operation, benefits and drawbacks of various peripheral devices for storage and file transfer
- Discuss the relationships between resolution, color space and color modes, and file formats for both editing and output
- Identify common key commands or keyboard shortcuts for the most common actions
- Identify how to find, apply, display, alter and extract a file’s metadata
- Identify the proper way to name digital files
- Identify the relationships between files, directories, applications and documents
IM122 Basic Image Editing
Credit 1Fall
Registration Requirement: Concurrent registration in IM120, IM121, IM122, IM123, IM124 and IM1278, plus student's choice of GD150, IM150, or TV150 is required.
Introduces students to key features and uses of image editing software. This introductory course covers nondestructive photo editing and compositing techniques using layers, masking, adjustment layers, blending modes and smart objects.
Additional Course Fee: $10.00
View Course Outcomes:
- Compare and contrast the differences between additive and subtractive color theory
- Describe a variety of retouching techniques that remedy specific deficits in a photographic portrait
- Describe non-destructive editing workflows
- Describe strategies used to selectively improve an image’s tone, contrast and color
- Explain how to crop, straighten, transform, warp, scale and resize an image
- Identify a digital file's format, resolution, physical size and color space for a variety of end uses and output demands
- Identify file format, resolution, canvas size, and print size present in a Photoshop file
- Identify the controls, tools, panels and workspace of the Photoshop interface
- Identify the differences in the various Photoshop selection tools
- Identify various color gamuts present for output and display
IM123 Basic Sound Editing
Credit 1Fall
Registration Requirement: Concurrent registration in IM120, IM121, IM122, IM123, IM124 and IM1278, plus student's choice of GD150, IM150, or TV150 is required.
Students explore the basic attributes of sound and its role in digital media production. The physical attributes of sound, acoustics, microphone design and application, and industry standard digital audio tools are covered.
Additional Course Fee: $10.00
View Course Outcomes:
- Distinguish between signal processing devices and their three main categories: spectral-based, amplitude-based, and time-based
- Explain the basic physical attributes of sound
- Explain the differences between compressed and uncompressed audio file formats
- Explain the process of how two or more devices may be synchronized
- Identify techniques for monitoring mixes in progress
- Identify the integration of digital audio files into multimedia and web-based applications
- Identify the interface components and tools for industry standard DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) software used to edit sound for various multimedia projects
- Recall the different components of audio waveforms
IM124 Basic Non-linear Editing
Credit 1Fall
Introduces basic workflow and post production processes using non-linear editing software. Students learn to set up production folders and project files, log and tag media files, work with a variety of compression and transcode codecs, and the basic operation of a timeline-based editing tool.
Additional Course Fee: $10.00
View Course Outcomes:
- Demonstrate how to set up project folders and file structures to distribute media for a post-production project
- Describe the relationship between metadata contained in project/sequences and linked media assets in a project
- Implement the steps used to deliver and archive a finished project in a variety of formats
- Apply an efficient workflow methodology for assembly through to final project output including multiple video and layered graphics tracks
- Utilize features of non-linear editing software workspace and its user interface
- Identify the various media file formats common in video acquisition and delivery
IM125 Basic Page Layout
Credit 1Fall
Registration Requirement: Concurrent registration in IM120, IM121, IM122, IM123, IM124 and IM1278, plus student's choice of GD150, IM150, or TV150 is required.
Introduces key features, tools and uses of professional page layout software. Students learn to set up a document and construct simple typographic compositions for print and digital distribution.
Additional Course Fee: $10.00
View Course Outcomes:
- Demonstrate how to create basic hierarchy through the formatting of typographic elements on a page
- Demonstrate proper file management skills to transport a final layout document from Adobe InDesign
- Demonstrate the different approaches for industry standard printed and digital output
- Identify the appropriate file-types for import and export from Adobe InDesign
- Identify the key interface features and shortcuts to properly format graphic elements in Adobe InDesign
IM165 Image Manipulation
Credits 4Winter
Registration Requirement: IM122.
This course introduces Adobe Photoshop as the premiere image editing software used by creative industry professionals. All aspects of the program are covered, including discussion of hardware, image capture, file formats, color space and output management. Photoshop tools, retouching, compositing and photo-illustration are among areas covered. There is an emphasis placed on editing and manipulating photographs within a nondestructive workflow.
Additional Course Fee: $40.00
View Course Outcomes:
- Apply compositing techniques to photographic imagery
- Demonstrate a nondestructive image editing workflow
- Demonstrate effective use of layers, fìlters, blending modes and color channels
- Demonstrate interconnection between Photoshop and Digital Asset Management workflows
- Demonstrate the ability to retouch photographic imagery
- Employ digital enhancement techniques for composition and color corrections
- Prepare images for printed and electronic output
IM178 Integrated Media Overview
Credits 4Fall
Registration Requirement: RD090 and WR090, or IECC201R and IECC201W; and MTH020; each with a grade of "C" or better; or placement above stated course levels. Open to all students who register for all required fall term courses: IM120, IM122, IM123, IM124, IM125, IM178 and a choice of one of the following: GD150, IM150, or TV150.
This course offers a comprehensive exploration of digital media, with an emphasis on both media creation and literacy. Through a blend of interactive workshops and insightful lectures, the course encourages students to actively create and critically analyze various forms of contemporary media. The curriculum is designed to equip students with the skills necessary to be both proficient media creators and discerning media consumers, fostering responsible and informed engagement in the media landscape.
Additional Course Fee: $40.00
View Course Outcomes:
- Recall or describe the key principles of digital media, including media literacy, ethical standards, and the role of media in society.
- Assess the effectiveness and cultural sensitivity of different media projects and considering their ethical and societal implications.
- Demonstrate effective face to face and virtual communication strategies for working in creative teams
- Use media creation tools and techniques in practical projects, demonstrating an ability to effectively communicate ideas.
- Interpret and explain the significance of various media forms, their target audiences, and the messages they convey.
- Critically examine media pieces to identify their underlying messages, techniques, and impact on audiences.
- Identify the organizations and structures that regulate the media
- Describe key theories and terms in media analysis, such as genre conventions, narrative structures, and visual symbolism.
IM190 Web for Media
Credits 2Spring
Registration Requirement: IM120.
This survey class introduces students to a variety of services, distribution tools and promotional strategies for media on the web. Students will be exposed to the basic elements of how promotional web-sites are designed and constructed along with current social media tools and channels for self promotion. Topics such as image processing, media file formats and template customization are covered as students prepare their work for display on the internet.
Additional Course Fee: $50.00
View Course Outcomes:
- Construct web based promotions using common industry platforms and technologies
- Employ the appropriate tools and file formats for audio, video and static media on the web
- Identify the different channels for promoting professional media on the internet
- Identify the variety of web tools available for digital content creation
- Demonstrate best practices in file naming, asset management and uploading of digital files
- Identify the benefits and drawbacks of various web-based media distribution methods
- Prepare a variety of media files for online display
- Use appropriate vocabulary when discussing digital processes
IM265 Personal Branding
Credits 2Winter
Registration Requirement: Limited to second year Integrated Media students or instructor approval.
This course will stress the importance of professional development and personal branding for promotional purposes. Students will go through the design process to develop appropriate branding elements to be applied to branding collateral and other promotional materials.
View Course Outcomes:
- Demonstrate effective verbal and visual presentation skills
- Formulate an appropriate identity system for your industry
- Identify opportunities for utilizing the completed system for portfolio and promotions
- Integrate the appropriate use of software when designing branding materials
IM270 Project Development
Credits 4Fall
Registration Requirement: Second-year Integrated Media students.
Students work in interdisciplinary groups to produce professional quality sound, video, design or multimedia projects. The creative development process is explored and documented through the scoping, client brief, pre-production, production and post-production phases. Project paperwork is required as students move through each phase of the production process.
Additional Course Fee: $50.00
View Course Outcomes:
- Apply post-production techniques to prepare digital assets for final project release.
- Apply scripting techniques to an integrated media project.
- Demonstrate effective presentation techniques for showing creative material.
- Discuss how design elements are used to unify components in a multi-media project.
- Justify the application of specific digital tools used in media production, considering their impact and effectiveness.
- List and describe successful behaviors for working in small creative teams.
- Practice systematic strategies for managing, sharing and archiving digital files.
- Schedule the production cycle of an integrated media project.
- Write effective copy for media presentations.
IM271 The Creative Pitch
Credits 4Winter
Registration Requirement: IM270.
Students work in small creative teams to explore the multiple ways that design, photography, film, video and sound-based technologies converge, integrate and emerge. By scoping a project, determining a budget, and writing a creative brief and pitching creative solutions for a campaign, students experience the strategic planning process used in the creative services.
Additional Course Fee: $40.00
View Course Outcomes:
- Customize a media message for a specific target audience
- List the metrics used to evaluate a media campaign.
- Deliver a convincing creative pitch.
- Describe and define a project scope for a media campaign.
- Employ collaborative practices while preparing a creative pitch.
- Prepare several creative concepts that emerge from interpreting a creative brief.
- Rationalize the selection of various media channels used in a campaign.
- Identify and describe the steps involved in the client briefing process.
IM272 Integrated Media Projects
Credits 4Spring
Registration Requirement: IM271.
This course simulates a creative agency where students work with one another on actual client projects. Emphasis is on creative problem-solving, working within budgetary constraints and producing high quality projects. Client management and presentation skills are stressed along with project documentation, time management, teamwork and collaboration. Students experience all aspects of producing creative solutions, including concept development, design, photography, copy writing, sound and video components.
Additional Course Fee: $50.00
View Course Outcomes:
- Demonstrate project management skills by handling the client’s project in a timely and cost-effective manner
- Demonstrate skill in collaborating with other creatives
- Document and track time, budget, prepare and submit documentation
- Document the research, concept development and implementation phases of a project
- Follow copyright and intellectual property law while demonstrating ethical choices for the creative services
- Interview a client, define the project's goals and develop an appropriate media solution
- Perform an effective client presentation
- Prepare a bid, negotiate rights usage, write a contract and establish project cost
- Prepare solutions with strong regard for both target audience and client goals
IM282GA Integrated Media Focus: Graphic Design
Credits 2Winter
This course introduces students to graphic design vocabulary, principles and processes. Emphasis is on communication methods used to convey an idea to a specific audience through the implementation of graphic software applications and digital techniques. May be repeated for a maximum of four credits. This course is also available as IM282GB and IM282GC.
Additional Course Fee: $20.00
View Course Outcomes:
- Apply foundational design and composition principles to projects
- Choose and apply appropriate media and tools
- Combine image and words in a visual communication
- Demonstrate ability to use graphics software to prepare digital files
IM282GB Integrated Media Focus: Graphic Design
Credits 2Winter
- maximum 4 This course introduces students to graphic design vocabulary, principles and processes. Emphasis is on communication methods used to convey an idea to a specific audience through the implementation of graphic software applications and digital techniques. May be repeated for a maximum of four credits. This course is also available as IM282GB and IM282GC.
Additional Course Fee: $20.00
IM282PA Integrated Media Focus: Photography
Credits 2Winter
This course covers digital imaging programs and workflow as students learn to capture and/or manipulate images for both print and digital delivery. May be repeated for a maximum of four credits.
Additional Course Fee: $15.00
View Course Outcomes:
- Apply foundational design principles to photo compositions
- Demonstrate digital camera features and settings
- Develop aptitude with major photographic software applications, features, and tools
- Employ digital software enhancement techniques to images
- Process images for print output and/or digital display
IM282VA Integrated Media Focus: Video
Credits 2Winter
Students learn software, techniques, production and/or creation methods focused on digital video. Students gain an understanding of industry standards in workflow and production practices.
Additional Course Fee: $20.00
View Course Outcomes:
- Apply foundational elements of design
- Design and implement a basic workflow for a digital project
- Examine industry standards and demonstrate ability to apply them to specific works.
- lncorporate project management and production skills
- Recognize the fundamental constructs in effective visual storytelling
IM282VB Integrated Media Focus: Video
Credits 2Winter
- maximum 4 Students learn software, production and/or distribution methods focused on digital video and digital editing systems. Students gain an understanding of industry standards in workflow and production practices. May be repeated for a maximum of four credits.
Additional Course Fee: $20.00
IM290 Integrated Media Portfolio
Credits 4Spring
Registration Requirement: Second-year standing in an Integrated Media program.
Students identify a career focus within the creative services industry. A variety of presentation techniques are explored as well as the tools, materials and processes for developing and showing a collection of creative work. Emphasis is on the development of representative samples in the form of a portfolio and/or reel and accompanying promotional materials. Students learn to present their work in a professional manner.
Additional Course Fee: $75.00
View Course Outcomes:
- Demonstrate effective presentation techniques for pitching creative material
- Employ appropriate technical skill and technique to visually present work at a professional level
- ldentify appropriate skill sets for working in creative environments
- Perform appropriate production techniques to prepare digital assets for final project release
- Practice systematic strategies for file management and archiving
- Produce a completed portfolio and/or reel that reflects the student's chosen industry
- Write appropriate copy to reflect the strategic and technical objectives of presented work