General Information

• Name: Computer Graphics - Print Media
• Discipline: Graphic Communications (GRC)
• Units (Credits): 3
• Schedule History: See when this course was offered over the last three years.
• Transfer Information: Courses with numbers 100 to 299: This course is designed to apply toward a WNC degree and/or transfer to other schools within the Nevada System of Higher Education, depending on the degree chosen and other courses completed. It may transfer to colleges and universities outside Nevada. For information about how this course can transfer and apply to your program of study, please contact a counselor.
• Academic Division: Communications and Fine Arts
• Prerequisites: None

Course Outline

I: Catalog Course Description

Introduces the processes involved in the creation and reproduction of graphic design for print media. Graphic communications history, design theory, software applications, production processes, printing processes and job opportunities are covered. This course will present a hands-on overview of a variety of graphic design software.

II: Course Objectives

Upon course completion, the student will acquire an understanding of:

• The history of traditional graphic communications processes
• Job descriptions and skill requirements for employment in the industry
• The various measurement systems for print media and how to use them.
• Past and present developments of type, including, classification of type design.
• Traditional and current technologies for typographic imaging.
• Basic principles and applications of design in graphic communications.
• Computer graphics software applications at an introductory level, including Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Photoshop, Adobe InDesign, and Adobe Acrobat.
• Digital image capture, using a digital camera and a scanner.
• Prepress, and production technologies and related applications.
• Past and present printing processes, including traditional and electronic technologies, post-press processes and related applications.

III: Course Linkage

Linkage of course to educational program mission and at least one educational program outcome.

• Have problem solving, creative, and critical thinking skills.
• Have effective and efficient learning skills, including the location and evaluation of information.
• Have appropriate technological skills, including computer skills.
• Have an understanding of the fine arts.

The Associate of Applied Science degree in Graphic Communications will provide employment-related knowledge and skills necessary to succeed in the graphic communications field. The degree will meet educational criteria for employment and prepare the student for possible transfer to other colleges and universities to meet higher educational and professional goals.

Upon completion of this course, it is expected that students will have:
• researched design problems.
• demonstrated technical skills.
• implemented design concepts.
• worked collaboratively.
• performed successful presentations.