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Degrees and Requirements

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

  • ARTH1017
    HISTORY OF ART I: PREHISTORIC

    ARTH1017
    HISTORY OF ART I: PREHISTORIC

    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.

    PREREQUISITES:

  • ARTH1018
    HISTORY OF ART II: RENAISSANCE

    ARTH1018
    HISTORY OF ART II: RENAISSANCE

    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.

    PREREQUISITES:

  • ARTH2002
    HISTORY OF GRAPHIC DESIGN

    ARTH2002
    HISTORY 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.

    PREREQUISITES:

  • ARTH3020
    HISTORY OF CONTEMPORARY ART

    ARTH3020
    HISTORY 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.

    PREREQUISITES:

  • GCDN1023
    DRAWING I (IDSN1023)

    GCDN1023
    DRAWING 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

    PREREQUISITES:

  • GCDN1060
    FOUNDATION DESIGN I (IDSN1060)

    GCDN1060
    FOUNDATION 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

    PREREQUISITES:

  • GCDN1062
    FOUNDATION DESIGN II (IDSN1062)

    GCDN1062
    FOUNDATION DESIGN II (IDSN1062)

    Credits (Min/Max): 3/3

    PREREQUISITE: GCDN1060 AND IDSN1060, GRADE OF C OR BETTER 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

    PREREQUISITES:

    GCDN1060

  • GCDN1070
    DIGITAL IMAGE MAKING I

    GCDN1070
    DIGITAL 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.

    PREREQUISITES:

  • GCDN1071
    DIGITAL IMAGE MAKING II

    GCDN1071
    DIGITAL IMAGE MAKING II

    Credits (Min/Max): 3/3

    PREREQUISITE: GCDN1070 AND DSGN2005, GRADE OF C OR BETTER 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.

    PREREQUISITES:

    GCDN1070

  • GCDN2008
    DIGITAL PUBLICATION AND

    GCDN2008
    DIGITAL PUBLICATION AND

    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

  • GCDN2012
    TYPOGRAPHY I

    GCDN2012
    TYPOGRAPHY I

    Credits (Min/Max): 3/3

    PREREQUISITE: GCDN1060, GCDN1071, IDSN1060, GCDN1062, GCDN1070, GRADE OF C OR BETTER 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

  • GCDN2016
    DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY I

    GCDN2016
    DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY I

    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.

    PREREQUISITES:

  • GCDN2021
    GRAPHIC DESIGN I

    GCDN2021
    GRAPHIC DESIGN I

    Credits (Min/Max): 3/3

    PREREQUISITE: GCDN2008, GRADE OF C OR BETTER 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

  • GCDN2029
    USER EXPERIENCE DESIGN I

    GCDN2029
    USER 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.

    PREREQUISITES:

    GCDN1070

  • GCDN3022
    TYPOGRAPHY II

    GCDN3022
    TYPOGRAPHY II

    Credits (Min/Max): 3/3

    PREREQUISITE: GCDN2021, GRADE OF C OR BETTER 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.

    PREREQUISITES:

    GCDN2021

  • GCDN3031
    GRAPHIC DESIGN II

    GCDN3031
    GRAPHIC DESIGN II

    Credits (Min/Max): 3/3

    PREREQUISITE: GCDN2021, GRADE OF C OR BETTER 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.

    PREREQUISITES:

    GCDN2021

  • GCDN3041
    GRAPHIC DESIGN III

    GCDN3041
    GRAPHIC DESIGN III

    Credits (Min/Max): 3/3

    PREREQUISITE: GCDN3031, GRADE OF C OR BETTER 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.

    PREREQUISITES:

    GCDN3031

  • GCDN3045
    USER EXPERIENCE DESIGN II

    GCDN3045
    USER EXPERIENCE DESIGN II

    Credits (Min/Max): 3/3

    PREREQUISITE: GCDN2029, GRADE OF C OR BETTER 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.

    PREREQUISITES:

    GCDN2021

  • GCDN3046
    MULTIMEDIA

    GCDN3046
    MULTIMEDIA

    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.

    PREREQUISITES:

    GCDN3045

  • GCDN3055
    PROFESSIONAL PRACTICES FOR

    GCDN3055
    PROFESSIONAL PRACTICES FOR

    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.

    PREREQUISITES:

  • GCDN4041
    SENIOR DESIGN CAPSTONE

    GCDN4041
    SENIOR DESIGN CAPSTONE

    Credits (Min/Max): 3/3

    PREREQUISITE: GCDN4055, GRADE OF C OR BETTER 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.

    PREREQUISITES:

    GCDN4055

  • GCDN4051
    INTERNSHIP I @

    GCDN4051
    INTERNSHIP I @

    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

  • GCDN4055
    SENIOR DESIGN SEMINAR

    GCDN4055
    SENIOR 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

  • GCDN4058
    PORTFOLIO PREPARATION

    GCDN4058
    PORTFOLIO 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.

    PREREQUISITES:

    SR Status

Major Electives: 15 credits

  • CMET3002
    NEW MEDIA AND DIGITAL

    CMET3002
    NEW MEDIA AND DIGITAL

    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.

    PREREQUISITES:

  • ENGL2030
    TECHNICAL WRITING

    ENGL2030
    TECHNICAL WRITING

    Credits (Min/Max): 3/3

    PREREQUISITE: ENGL1012 OR ENGL1012H 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)

  • ENGL3034
    WRITING FOR ADVERTISING

    ENGL3034
    WRITING 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)

  • GCDN2038
    ILLUSTRATION

    GCDN2038
    ILLUSTRATION

    Credits (Min/Max): 3/3

    PREREQUISITE: GCDN1023, GCDN1070, GCDN1071, GRADE OF C OR BETTER 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

  • GCDN2040
    WORD AND IMAGE

    GCDN2040
    WORD 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.

    PREREQUISITES:

  • GCDN3012
    DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY III - INTERIOR

    GCDN3012
    DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY III - INTERIOR

    Credits (Min/Max): 3/3

    PREREQUISITE: GCDN2016, GRADE OF C OR BETTER 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

    PREREQUISITES:

    GCDN2042

  • GCDN3043
    PACKAGING DESIGN

    GCDN3043
    PACKAGING DESIGN

    Credits (Min/Max): 3/3

    PREREQUISITE: GCDN2021, GRADE OF C OR BETTER 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.

    PREREQUISITES:

    GCDN2021

  • GCDN3053
    ENVIRONMENTAL GRAPHIC DESIGN

    GCDN3053
    ENVIRONMENTAL GRAPHIC DESIGN

    Credits (Min/Max): 3/3

    PREREQUISITE: GCDN2021, GCDN2008, GCDN2010, GCDN2012, GRADE OF C OR BETTER 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

  • GCDN3060
    DIGITAL BRANDING

    GCDN3060
    DIGITAL BRANDING

    Credits (Min/Max): 3/3

    PREREQUISITE: GCDN2029, GRADE OF C OR BETTER 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.

    PREREQUISITES:

  • GCDN4050
    GRAPHIC DESIGN - SPECIAL TOPICS:

    GCDN4050
    GRAPHIC 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

  • GCDN4052
    INTERNSHIP II - GRAPHIC DESIGN

    GCDN4052
    INTERNSHIP II - GRAPHIC DESIGN

    Credits (Min/Max): 1/6

    A second practical work experience in a field setting. The student receives credits for work performed.

    PREREQUISITES:

    JR/SR Status in Graphic Design

  • MRKT2007
    ADVERTISING AND PUBLIC RELATIONS

    MRKT2007
    ADVERTISING AND PUBLIC RELATIONS

    Credits (Min/Max): 3/3

    PREREQUISITE: MRKT2021 AND ADMG2021 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

  • MRKT3012
    BUYER BEHAVIOR

    MRKT3012
    BUYER BEHAVIOR

    Credits (Min/Max): 3/3

    PREREQUISITE: MRKT2021 AND ADMG2021 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

  • MRKT4016
    BRAND MANAGEMENT

    MRKT4016
    BRAND MANAGEMENT

    Credits (Min/Max): 3/3

    PREREQUISITE: ADMG2021 AND MRKT2021 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.

    PREREQUISITES: