Graphic Design
WHAT DOES A GRAPHIC DESIGNER DO?
Graphic designers create communications that educate, advocate and entertain. From the small hang tag on a piece of clothing to the oversized billboards in Times Square, from the books we read as children to the textbooks we learned from in school, from the magazines we read to the websites we visit and the films and videos we watch – Graphic Design is literally everywhere.
For nearly 40 years, La Roche University graphic design students have gone on to become professional graphic designers, art directors, illustrators, interactive designers and publication designers. They work at firms such as Apple, American Eagle, Brunner Advertising, Lockerz and MAYA Design, creating logos and branding, designing packaging and brochures, developing ad campaigns and producing TV, web and print ads.
Our current faculty, many of whom are practicing graphic designers or exhibiting artists, are able to bring their real-world knowledge back into the classroom to facilitate the best learning opportunities for our students. Our 13:1 faculty-to-student ratio allows students to connect with their professors on a level that allows them to grow and find their individual creative voice.
CURRICULUM
Our curriculum is a well-structured and rigorous program that serves as a basis for the investigative study necessary for upper-level design courses. Roughly three fourths of the coursework is in major requirements, major electives, foundation courses or art history. Students spend a considerable amount of time in studio interacting with other students and their professors, immersing themselves in their major.
To complete the Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) Graphic Design Program successfully, the following coursework is required:
- 72 credits of Graphic Design Major Requirements
- 15 credits of Graphic Design Major Electives
- 37 credits of CORE Curriculum courses
- successful completion of Mid-Collegiate Review
A minimum of 124 credits is required for graduation, the last 30 of which must be earned at La Roche.
Academic Standards
Students must earn a grade of C or above in all Graphic Design courses to fulfill prerequisites and degree requirements. Grades below a C, including C-, will affect participation in portfolio reviews and advancement in the curriculum.
Freshman Review
At the end of the spring semester, faculty meet with each freshman student to review his or her work. This review is informal and is an opportunity for students to discuss their first year at La Roche with the faculty.
Sophomore Review
At the end of their sophomore year, students are required to present a portfolio of their work to the Graphic Design faculty for their Sophomore Review. Students must have completed all required freshman and sophomore Graphic Design coursework, earning a C or better in each course, to be allowed to participate in the Review.
Course Rotation
Graphic Design courses are offered sequentially during the academic year and the summer as enrollment permits. Courses are also offered in the evening. Note: Students will be unable to complete the program without taking courses during the day.
Internship Requirement
All students are required to complete a three-credit internship during their junior or senior year.
Transfer Policy
Students who have completed courses at other academic institutions and wish to transfer to La Roche should contact the Graphic Design Department chair, to set up a meeting to review and evaluate their coursework. After both the Registrar and the Graphic Design Department chair evaluate the student’s transcript, placement within the curriculum is determined. Please note that transfer students must pass the Graphic Sophomore Review before enrolling in upper-level design courses.
Summary of Requirements
Graphic Design Major Requirements: 72 credits
ARTH1017HISTORY OF ART I: PREHISTORIC TO GOTHIC
Credits (Min/Max): 3/3
A survey of world art from prehistoric to late Gothic eras as well as an examination of the interaction of the social, political and economic forces that effected the production and appearance of such arts as painting, sculpture, architecture and the minor arts. Lectures, slides, discussion and field trips are utilized.
ARTH1018HISTORY OF ART II: RENAISSANCE TO MODERN
Credits (Min/Max): 3/3
This course will provide a survey of world art from early Renaissance to the present day. Emphasis is on cause and effect in the various historical and technological developments of art. Lecture, discussion, slides, film strips and field trips are part of the course.
ARTH2002HISTORY OF GRAPHIC DESIGN
Credits (Min/Max): 3/3
A survey of the history of graphic design from the invention of writing to the twentieth century. Emphasis will be given to the evolution of graphic communication and will include the origins of printing and typography. The impact of the industry on visual communication and the development of modern graphic design will also be presented.
ARTH3020HISTORY OF CONTEMPORARY ART
Credits (Min/Max): 3/3
A survey of modern art from the 19th century to the present day. This course explores the revolutionary forms, methods and media invented by contemporary artists to continually defy our expectations of what art should be.
GCDN1023DRAWING I (IDSN1023)
Credits (Min/Max): 3/3
A study-workshop in the language of drawing, including practice in expression and communication in various media utilizing principles of line, tone, gesture, exaggeration and lighting. Cross-listed with IDSN1023
GCDN1060FOUNDATION DESIGN I (IDSN1060)
Credits (Min/Max): 3/3
An introductory course in design process, the principles of design and their application to studio projects. This course establishes a framework form which to explore the connection between the foundations of design and complex discipline-specific design problems. Cross-listed with IDSN1060
GCDN1062FOUNDATION DESIGN II (IDSN1062)
Credits (Min/Max): 3/3
This course builds upon Foundation Design I, as an introductory course in design process, the principles of design and their application to studio projects, with a focus on color theory through both two- and three-dimensional design. This course continues to establish a framework from which to explore the connection between the foundations of design and complex discipline-specific design problems. Cross-listed with IDSN1062
GCDN1070DIGITAL IMAGE MAKING I
Credits (Min/Max): 3/3
Introducton to digital image making. Students will explore industry software and apply foundational design concepts and vocabulary to a range of visual communication projects. Course content and project work will introduce both vector and raster image creation. Studio practice/projects will concentrate on exploring, understanding and applying the design process (research, brainstorming, design, critique, technical, execution.) Emphasis will be placed on concept development and the integration of fundamental design concepts (the elements and principles of design, heirarchy, composition, etc.) into studio design projects.
GCDN1071DIGITAL IMAGE MAKING II
Credits (Min/Max): 3/3
Advanced digital image making. The course will provide advanced practice of digital image creation, manipulation and production using professional, industry- standard software. Course content and project work will build upon foundational knowledge of the design process, industry software, (both vector and raster) and methods attained in Image Making I. Assignments will require in-depth inquiry into the design process, methods, visual communication and technical design solutions. Studio practice will emphasize visual communication strategies as they combine with other elements of graphic design such as heirarchy, typography, color, layout and composition. Students will develop their ability to apply vocabulary and the the design process through research, critique and the iterative design process.
This course runs in tandem with Foundation Design II.
GCDN2008DIGITAL PUBLICATION AND PRE-PRESS
Credits (Min/Max): 3/3
This course will focus on the integration of type and image in page layout while also introducing design industry standards for print production. Various page layout and print production solutions will be explored utilizing professional industry software.
PREREQUISITES:
GCDN1060 & GCDN1062 & GCDN1070 & GCDN1071
GCDN2012TYPOGRAPHY I
Credits (Min/Max): 3/3
This course introduces students to the basics of typography as the backbone of Graphic Design. By studying the anatomy of a letterform, typographic history, classifications, typeface recognition, hierarchy and terminology, students learn to organize typographic compositions and systems in order to communicate intellectual and expressive meaning. Students explore the typographic form through both hand-rendered and digital mediums using industry standard software.
PREREQUISITES:
GCDN1060 & GCDN1062 & GCDN1070 & GCDN1071
GCDN2016DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY
Credits (Min/Max): 3/3
This course will explore digital capture and handling of photographs enabling the student to master the technical aspects of digital image capture. Students will learn techniques for editing and enhancing photographs, become familiar with photography's various roles: art form, journalism, advertising and will produce a portfolio of quality color and black and white prints from digital files. This course is for design majors only.
GCDN2021GRAPHIC DESIGN I
Credits (Min/Max): 3/3
This course investigates design principles and concepts, incorporating them into the foundations of graphic design. The student is introduced to the language and processes used to achieve effective graphic design. Through investigation of core graphic design principles, concept development, language and processes; students explore both formal and expressive techniques for successful and effective integration of image and type.
PREREQUISITES:
GCDN1062 & GCDN1070 & GCDN2008 & GDCN2010 & GCDN2012
GCDN2029USER EXPERIENCE DESIGN I
Credits (Min/Max): 3/3
Introduction to user experience design. This course will Introduce students to foundational theories for visual design and accessibility, information architecture, user interface design, prototyping techniques, and various publishing requirements. Students will be introduced to a range of digital media formats and applications in order to establish familiarity with UX design problems. Students will learn and apply the theory and application of UX design including research, problem identification, concept building and prototyping.
GCDN3022TYPOGRAPHY II
Credits (Min/Max): 3/3
Further development of the ideas, techniques and principles studied in GCDN2012. Emphasis is placed on polishing and advancing basic typography skills through the study of typography in publication design, i.e., multiple page design as it relates to layouts for books, booklets, brochures and magazines. Format and design for continuity is stressed.
GCDN3031GRAPHIC DESIGN II
Credits (Min/Max): 3/3
This course will focus on information organization and complex hierarchies, in order to reach conceptually and aesthetically sophisticated design solutions. Particular emphasis will be placed on research, investigation, rigorous brainstorming and organizing a large quantity of information in order to reach content-heavy, visually-engaging solutions. Prereq: Successful completion of Mid-Collegiate Review.
GCDN3041GRAPHIC DESIGN III
Credits (Min/Max): 3/3
With an emphasis on communication and advanced design problems, this course will focus on the development of clear, appropriate, dynamic and efficient branding through a systems approach to design. It will begin with the detailed study of the brand and brand identity, and culminate in the development of an integrated branding program. A high degree of conceptual, aesthetic and technical ability will be required for successful completion of this course.
GCDN3045USER EXPERIENCE DESIGN II
Credits (Min/Max): 3/3
This course is an advanced study in user experience design which builds upon the foundation and application of UX design and theory from User Experience Design I. Students will further develop skills in research, problem identification, concept building and prototyping with an emphasis towards solving complicated 'user-centric' design problems. Studio work will require solutions that demonstrate advanced consideration to information architecture strategy, design patterns, responsive screen design, and high-fidelity prototyping.
GCDN3046MULTIMEDIA
Credits (Min/Max): 3/3
This course is an advanced study of multimedia and video design, theory and application for upper level Design students. Taught primarily on a MAC platform, this course utilizes software for digital video production. Class assignments will be closely related to GCDN3041 Graphic Design III, which will be taken concurrently during the second semester of the Junior year. The courses will be interrelated in terms of theory as well as outcome assessment.
GCDN3055PROFESSIONAL PRACTICES FOR GRAPHIC DESIGNERS
Credits (Min/Max): 3/3
This course will explore the essential business and professional practices of the design profession. Topics include developing a professional identity package, understanding different types of design employment, strategies to engage and grow in the design industry, design freelance business essentials, and networking and self-promotion strategies.
GCDN4041SENIOR DESIGN CAPSTONE
Credits (Min/Max): 3/3
This capstone-level course centers on the development of a semester long independent project. In consultation with faculty and peers, students will focus on creating multi-component, content-driven projects that demonstrate their ability to completely identify, research, self-author and implement in-depth solutions. The course will culminate with a final professional presentation.
GCDN4051INTERNSHIP I - GRAPHIC DESIGN
Credits (Min/Max): 1/6
A practical work experience in a field setting. The student receives credits for work performed.
PREREQUISITES:
JR/SR Status in Graphic Design
GCDN4055SENIOR DESIGN SEMINAR
Credits (Min/Max): 3/3
An open-ended senior seminar dealing with various aesthetic questions and team efforts in which students act as art director, designer, illustrator, writer, or photographer. Emphasis is placed on educational experiences that enable the student to move from hypothetical design problems to the challenge of working with clients on real jobs. Communication Design majors play a significant role on creative teams.
PREREQUISITES:
GCDN3031 & GCDN3041 & GCDN3045 & GCDN3046
GCDN4058PORTFOLIO PREPARATION
Credits (Min/Max): 3/3
This course involves the exploration of self-promotion strategies necessary for success in the graphic design profession. In consultation with faculty and peers, students will revise and improve upon prior and current projects in order to develop a strong senior portfolio. Through instruction and research, students will learn techniques for effective verbal and visual presentation of their work. This course will prepare graduates for the job market and continued education. The course will culminate with the annual Senior Portfolio Show.
Major Electives: 15 credits
CMET3002NEW MEDIA AND DIGITAL COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGY
Credits (Min/Max): 3/3
This course deals with the evolution of technology and the use of communications technology for business, entertainment and information. Through readings, discussion, group work and hands-on experience the class examines the social, cultural and economic aspects of communication technology.
ENGL2030TECHNICAL WRITING
Credits (Min/Max): 3/3
Designed to apply the basic principles of communication to technical information so that the student can learn to present complex technical messages in the clearest possible way.
PREREQUISITES:
ENGL1012(H)
ENGL3034WRITING FOR ADVERTISING
Credits (Min/Max): 3/3
This course is designed to teach students how to write advertising copy that targets various audiences and employs multiple venues: print, radio, TV, and the internet.
PREREQUISITES:
ENGL1012(H)
GCDN2038ILLUSTRATION
Credits (Min/Max): 3/3
This course places an emphasis on thorough experimentation of image-making techniques including hand, digital and a combination of those. It will provide students with an in-depth knowledge of current and past illustrators and give them skills to create concept-based imagery. Emphasis is placed on communicating specific messages to targeted audiences in order to understand the relationship between Illustration and Graphic Design.
PREREQUISITES:
GCDN1023 & GCDN1070 & GCDN1071
GCDN2040WORD AND IMAGE
Credits (Min/Max): 3/3
An in-depth study of the symbiotic relationship between words and images and the importance of integrating text with visual information to achieve professional results. Emphasis will be placed on the juxtaposition of image and text in order to produce coherent design. Problems will focus on concept generation and problem solving.
GCDN3012DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY III
Credits (Min/Max): 3/3
This course will study concepts, processes, and techniques related to the effective execution of interior photography work. Through exploring a variety of interior shooting conditions such as types of lighting, concept, compositional strategy, technical requirements, and advanced editing technique, students will learn to integrate core photography concepts into successful and effective skillset specializing in interior related photography. This course will require off campus travel. Prereq: GCDN2042
GCDN3043PACKAGING DESIGN
Credits (Min/Max): 3/3
The course is an introduction to the elements and principles of design for packaging, retail display and branded environments, with an emphasis on visual communication for three-dimensional design.
GCDN3053ENVIRONMENTAL GRAPHIC DESIGN (IDSN3053)
Credits (Min/Max): 3/3
Introduction to the study and practice of Environmental Graphic Design (EGD) with an emphasis on understanding visual communication and information systems for navigating and experiencing the built environment. The course will cover theory and practical application of topics related to EGD including: principles of wayfinding, study of three-dimensional design and exploration of typography, symbols, identity and information design in the public space. Cross-listed with IDSN3053
PREREQUISITES:
GCDN2008 & GCDN2010 & GCDN2012 & GCDN2021
GCDN3060DIGITAL BRANDING
Credits (Min/Max): 3/3
This course investigates the many ways that branding seeks to engage consumers in a digitally dominant environment. Through the study of various theories and applications, students will learn how to create personalized and memorable experiences for digitally dominant consumers. Project work will focus utilizing multiple forms of digital media with a strong emphasis on storytelling, personalization, and authenticity as methods to engage target audiences. This course will emphasize the UX design process, building further skills in user research, scenario development, and rapid and refined prototyping skills.
GCDN4050GRAPHIC DESIGN - SPECIAL TOPICS:
Credits (Min/Max): 3/3
SPRING 2021 This course investigates the many ways that branding seeks to engage consumers in a digitally dominant environment. Through the study of various theories and applications, students will learn how to create personalized and memorable experiences for digitally-dominant consumers. Project work will focus utilizing multiple forms of digital media with a strong emphasis on storytelling, personalization, and authenticity as methods to engage target audiences. This course will emphasize the UI/UX design process, building further skills in user research, scenario development, and both rapid and refined prototyping skills.
PREREQUISITES:
GCDN2008, GCDN2010, GCDN2012, GCDN2021
GCDN4052INTERNSHIP II - GRAPHIC DESIGN
Credits (Min/Max): 0/3
A second practical work experience in a field setting. The student receives credits for work performed.
PREREQUISITES:
JR/SR Status in Graphic Design
MRKT2007ADVERTISING AND PUBLIC RELATIONS(ADMG2007)
Credits (Min/Max): 3/3
A comprehensive study of advertising, detailing its relationship to marketing practice. Topics such as advertising preparation, media evaluation, market research, pricing and retailing problems are included. The role of public relations in an organizational communication program is also explained.Cross-listed with ADMG2007
PREREQUISITES:
ADMG2021 or MRKT2021
MRKT3012BUYER BEHAVIOR
Credits (Min/Max): 3/3
This course focuses on the role of buyers in the marketing process. Buyer behavior in the consumer marketplace as well as the organizational buying process is examined. The study of buying behaviors enhances understanding of what marketing strategies are likely to be effective, how humans operate in the marketplace, and what kind of affective, cognitive, and social mechanisms enter into the purchasing decision. A sampling of specific topics addressed includes the role of attitudes, learning and memory, and lifestyles and culture in the buying decision.
PREREQUISITES:
ADMG2021 or MRKT2021
MRKT4016BRAND MANAGEMENT
Credits (Min/Max): 3/3
This course addresses the concept of branding which is of major importance to any company using a branding strategy. The role of the brand manager is examined in this combination theory and skills course. Various marketing techniques are studied for the overall responsibility of a brand in order to increase brand equity.