Courses
We have designed our graphic design curriculum to produce highly competent and creative designers, as well as educated and critically-aware professionals and citizens. Our courses stress formal and technical skills, but they also push students to become proficient in creative problem-solving and visual criticism.
A detailed list of program requirements for the BFA in Graphic Design can be found on its Program of Study. The courses there are organized into the following categories:
Graphic Design
Typography, ideation and web design form the backbone of the Graphic Design curriculum.
Typography
Our three-course typography sequence takes students from the basics of type and document design all the way to advanced editorial and identity applications and experimental typography.
Ideation
Students learn strategies and methods to generate ideas quickly and curate and refine them into original and productive design plans.
Web Design
Our students learn how to design interactive experiences for screens of all sizes and an elective gives them an opportunity to learn advanced techniques and create more complex interactive experiences
Capstone Experience
In a two-course sequence, students research, propose and produce complex design projects that take them out of the classroom and into the world of professional practice and inquiry.
Electives
Besides their required program courses, students in Graphic Design choose elective courses in that allow them to tailor the program to their talents and interests.
Internship
An internship is not required, but students can choose to undergo one to help fulfill elective requirements and gain real-world experience.
Foundations
Our three Foundations courses lay the groundwork for advanced 2D and 3D studio courses.
Art History
Students gain a broad knowledge of art history in two survey classes and more specialized knowledge with an elective in a subject of their choosing. The History of Graphic Design course does SOMETHING.
Professional Development
Study of Graphic Design's intersections with other disciplines — anthropology, business or communications, to name a few — enhances our students readiness for professional practice.
Studio Art
Required courses in digital imaging, photography and printmaking develop students’ formal and conceptual skills in areas closely related to Graphic Design. Studio Art electives provide an opportunity for advanced study in those areas as well as clay, fibers, metals, painting, and sculpture.
Graphic Design Course Descriptions
This list of courses for the major is not a description of degree requirements. For a complete list of courses that fulfill this degree’s requirements, see the Program of Study in the University Bulletin.
Foundations
ART 1001 Foundations I
3 hours
Basic introduction to two-dimensional design emphasizing the structural elements of art, the principles of visual organization, and the psychological effects of visual decision making. Color theory, including schematic uses and historical and psychological aspects, will be explored along with the application of color mixing and color integration. There will be an introduction to the critical and analytical approaches to the visual arts.
ART 1002 Foundations II
3 hours
This course is the second half of an introduction to the structural elements of art. It examines the organizational principles of three dimensional design and the study of equipment and materials used in this area of art making. Emphasis is on three-dimensional vocabulary, understanding of sculptural space, the use of hand and power tools, materials manipulation, and processes related to three-dimensional art.
ART 1003 Foundations Drawing
3 hours
An introduction to drawing as a primary means of visual investigation. Major class topics include drawing from observation and visualization (drawing from imagination). Class exercises focus on rendering objects, spaces, and the human figure in basic wet and dry media (graphite, charcoal, and ink). Conceptual and process-centered approaches in contemporary drawing will be introduced.
Graphic Design Studios
ART 1102 Introduction to Graphic Design
3 hours
This is an introductory level course for students entering the field of graphic design. It involves studio inquiry into the nature of visual communication. The course is structured to foster a personal approach to the design process and the ability to discuss design critically. Topics introduced in the course include typography, symbols, contemporary design practice and the relationship between designer, audience and message. Work produced in this course allows for the discovery of the language, creative problem-solving processes and technologies fundamental to graphic design.
Prerequisites: ART 1001 and ART 1003.
ART 2102 Typography I
3 hours
This course concentrates on the study of typography. Course includes a survey of major typographical trends, analysis of letterforms, typesetting methods and the use of type in layout design.
Prerequisites: ART 1001 and ART 1003. This course (ART 2102) may be taken concurrently with, but not before ART 1102.
ART 3102 Typography II
3 hours
Second course in the typography sequence focusing on the design of multiple pages, an introduction to publication design, basic typographic systems, and typographic hierarchy. An introduction to the use of type with image and the surface design of three dimensional form will be studied. Students who do not pass Candidacy Portfolio Review before starting this course will be required to drop the course.
Prerequisite: Graphic Design Candidacy Portfolio Review.
ART 3302 Idea Lab
3 hours
The course will function as a creative laboratory, providing students the opportunity to be immersed in and mindful of the design process. Course topics include innovation methodologies, design processes, visualization, prototyping and testing. Through exercises, readings, research and studio projects, students will develop lifelong skills to foster the good ideas that lead to meaningful creative work. Students who do not pass Candidacy Portfolio Review before starting this course will be required to drop the course.
Prerequisite: Graphic Design Candidacy Portfolio Review.
ART 3202 Interaction Design I
3 hours
An intermediate intermediate graphic design course involving complex interactive projects for the web and other technologies using standards-compliant HTML and CSS. Students will have the opportunity to learn the application of semantic code markup in order to gain an understanding of the separation of content and form in dynamic media. Alternate forms of scripting for the web, animation and motion graphics, and interaction with databases will also be introduced.
Prerequisites: ARH 2230, ART 2026, ART 2104, and ART 3102.
ART 4102 Typography III
3 hours
Third course in the typography sequence stressing the dynamic relationships among content, form and context to gain a deeper understanding of systems at many levels. Other topics may include: packaging, expressive, environmental, dynamic, and interactive typography.
Prerequisites: ARH 2230, ART 2026, ART 3102, and ART 3302.
ART 4192 Graphic Design Senior Seminar
3 hours
This course prepares students for their final senior design project in ART 4202 - Graphic Design Senior Studio (3), Graphic Design Senior Studio (GEN ED: Capstone Experience). These two courses, taken in sequence, provide an opportunity for advanced students to demonstrate a mature understanding of design practice. Through readings, literature review, and research assignments, the graphic design senior seminar examines contemporary issues in design, the expanding practice of design and addresses the relevance of pre-design stages to the design process as a whole. Students conduct research and locate their interests within the design discipline before producing proposals for their capstone project.
Prerequisites: ART 3202 and ART 4102.
ART 4202 Graphic Design Senior Studio
3 hours
GEN ED: Capstone Experience
The culminating course in the graphic design program, this course addresses self-reliance and the application of research and creative inquiry to the realization of projects proposed in ART 4192 - Graphic Design Senior Seminar (3). Students will produce a portfolio of work that demonstrates analytical, conceptual, visual and technical maturity. Passing a portfolio review is a requirement of this course.
Prerequisites: ART 3202, ART 3226, ART 4102, and ART 4192.
Graphic Design Electives
ART 2302 Hand-Lettering
3 hours
An introduction to hand-lettering. Both monoline and edged-pen lettering styles are studied in their historical context. A range of styles and mediums will be studied, as well as applications of hand-lettering for artworks, design projects, and more.
Prerequisite: ART 1001 or permission of the instructor.
ART 3020 Illustration
3 hours
This course is an introduction to illustration as a form of visual communication. It will cover a range of both digital and analog tools, as well as applications of illustration in multiple contexts. Through visual, historical, and conceptual research, students will develop an understanding and relationship to the collaborative process of illustration.
Prerequisite: Successful candidacy portfolio review for BFA Studio Art, BFA Graphic Design, or BFA Art Education.
ART 3312 Motion Graphics
3 hours
This is an intensive course in time-based media for artists and designers. Students will create broadcast quality animation and compositing projects for television, web and other technologies. Students will use type and images to learn a variety of production techniques in digital audio, digital video, animation and other special effects. Post-production presentation techniques targeting the broadcast and theatrical industry, the web and other technologies will be covered.
Prerequisite: ART 2104 or permission of the instructor.
ART 3322 Sign, Symbol, Image
3 hours
An introductory study of signs, symbols and images in the context of graphic communication. The course includes theoretical and practical considerations of the relationship between visual form and cultural meaning. Course projects address visual perception and interpretation, abstraction and stylization, symbol typologies, gestalt of design, semantics and typography, and the application of semiotics and rhetorical tropes to visual communication. Course objectives are to enhance students' analytical skills and situate graphic design practice in a larger socio-cultural context.
Prerequisites: ART 2104 and ART 3102.
ART 3332 Design Methods
3 hours
This course includes a survey of research methods that enhance creative conceptualization abilities and provide research-based evidence that supports design decisions. Students examine case studies; analyze secondary research; experience various contextual research methods; and conduct and apply primary research that uses a variety of design methods (interview, observational and participatory).
Prerequisites: ART 2104, ART 3102 and ART 3302.
ART 3500 Independent Study
(1-4) hours
Majors in art may broaden and intensify their program through individual research and involvement in a given area of art.
Prerequisite: permission of the departmental chair.
ART 3602 Special Topics in Graphic Design
3 hours
Students examine in detail a speciality area in graphic communication, through discussion, research and creative studio work. Examples of topics might include: illustration, exhibition design, packaging design, and publication design.
Prerequisite: Graphic Design Candidacy Portfolio Review.
Content to vary; may be repeated for credit when content does not duplicate.
ART 3900 Internship
(1-6) hours
Supervised placement in a setting which provides an opportunity for students to observe and practice various art and design related skills. Supervision and evaluation by the site supervisor and the faculty member.
ART 4302 Interaction Design II
3 hours
This is an advanced graphic design course involving complex interactive projects for the web and other technologies using dynamic and media-rich interactive media. Projects may include animation, typography in motion, data visualization, interactive exhibits and narratives, and other time-based experiences.
Prerequisites: ART 3102 and ART 3202 or permission of the instructor.
ART 4312 Graphic Design Professional Practice
3 hours
Aimed at senior graphic design majors, ART 4312 (Graphic Design Professional Practice) is intended to help students transition from student to design professional. The course addresses professional practices in the context of various design disciplines as well as current issues in the field. Students will create self-promotional packages, undertake research and writing that reflects their preparedness for the job search; develop and refine their portfolios; and, if possible, visit a design studio or printing facility.
Prerequisites: ART 3102 and ART 3202.
____ Other with written approval of your advisor
3 hours
Studio Art and Photography Requirements
PHO 2026 Film Photography
3 hours
This course is an introduction to black and white film photography. The course will cover the basic principles of film development and printing in the darkroom. Other possible topics include split filter printing, large format photography, color film processing, film scanning, and advanced darkroom techniques. Emphasis will be placed upon conceptual development as well as technical proficiency.
Prerequisites: PHO 1022, ART 1001, ART 1002.
A camera is required per the instructor's directions.
ART 2104 Digital Imaging
3 hours
This course introduces the student to technical and aesthetic aspects of digital image manipulation for artists and designers.
Prerequisites: ART 1001 and ART 1003.
and 3sh Printmaking Electives
ART 2025 Printmaking: Relief
3 hours
A general introduction to printmaking: its history, development, techniques, and processes. Various relief printmaking techniques will be explored such as woodcut, linocut, collagraph, and non-traditional methods. Using additive and reductive processes, students work in black and white and in color, learning the registration and printing of multiple matrices. Traditional, contemporary, and experimental approaches are encouraged.
Prerequisites: ART 1001 and ART 1003, or ART 1020 or ART 1021.
ART 2125 Printmaking: Screenprinting
3 hours
This course introduces photomechanical screenprinting processes and techniques to create original prints. There is an additional emphasis on color theory for printmaking as well as techniques for creating editions and experimental prints.
Prerequisites: ART 1001 and ART 1003, or ART 1020 or ART 1021.
ART 3208 Fibers: Printed Textiles
3 hours
Exploration of printed textile materials and processes, such as screen-printing, repeat patterning, and digital printing. Emphasis is on critical thinking and development of technical skills with application to individual works of art, craft, and design. Studio six hours.
Prerequisites: ART 1001, ART 1002, ART 1003, ART 2008. Additionally, a successful candidacy portfolio review is required for BFA Studio Art, BFA Graphic Design, or BFA Art Education majors. Or permission of the instructor.
ART 3425 Printmaking Studio
3 hours
This course involves an in-depth exploration of printmaking practices with a specific thematic and/or technical focus. Various techniques in printmaking will be covered and may include or combine: intaglio, lithography, monotype, photo and digital processes. Themes may include topics such as sustainable printmaking, the political print and print-installation. This course will examine the development of printmaking throughout history and across cultures. Students will explore a variety of contemporary aesthetic approaches in printmaking. Barring duplication of content, a student may repeat the course for a total credit of 12 semester hours.
Prerequisites: ART 1001, ART 1002 and ART 1003. Additionally, a successful candidacy portfolio review is required for BFA Studio Art, BFA Graphic Design, or BFA Art Education majors; or permission of the instructor.
Barring duplication of content, a student may repeat the course for a total credit of 12 semester hours.
Studio Art or Photography Electives
Art History
ARH 2030 Art from Prehistory to 1400
3 hours
GEN ED: Fine Arts Designation; Liberal Studies Experience
A global survey of art history focusing on the early visual artistic traditions of Europe, Asia, Africa and the Americas from the dawn of art to 1400. The course examines visual art and art making in religious, social, cultural, and political contexts.
ARH 2130 Art from 1400 to the Present
3 hours
GEN ED: Fine Arts Designation; Liberal Studies Experience
A global survey of art history from 1400 to the present examining the later artistic traditions of Europe, Asia, Africa, Oceania and the Americas. The course focuses on visual art and art making in light of changing social, political, religious, and cultural circumstances.
ARH 2230 History of Graphic Design
3 hours
A historical survey of visual communication, this course highlights key graphic designers and meta-disciplinary creative thinkers who have shaped significant innovations in the field. Examining relevant artistic, cultural, and technological events provides a context for understanding contemporary graphic design practice.
ART Art History Elective
3 hours
Chosen in consultation with advisor
Professional Development: Communication Skills
COM 2101 Public Speaking
3 hours
Intensive practice in composition and delivery of various types of speeches with emphasis on speech structure and style.
COM 2105 Public Speaking in the Disciplines
3 hours
GEN ED: Liberal Studies Experience
Intensive practice in composition and delivery of various types of speeches with emphasis on speech structure and style suited to a particular subject matter, which will vary by section as indicated in the schedule of classes.
COM 2110 Introduction to Nonverbal Communication
3 hours
An introduction to nonverbal behavior as a form of communication, with emphasis upon nonverbal communication in the classroom, in the business world, and in general interpersonal relations. Examination will be made of such areas of nonverbal behavior as kinesics (body language), haptics (communication through touch), proxemics (use of space and communication), paralinguistics (vocal cues in communication), and nonverbal factors in communication between variant ethnic groups and cultures.
ENG 3100 Business Writing
3 hours
Focus on business writing concepts, ethics, and research. Emphasis on applied genres: specialized letters and memoranda, resumes, proposals, analytical and fact-finding reports, and other essential forms of professional communication.
RC 2001 or its equivalent.
ENG 3700 Technical Writing
3 hours
Focus on technical writing concepts, usability, ethics, and research. Emphasis on applied genres: instructions, process descriptions, abstracts, definitions, technical reports, and various electronic forms. Students may not receive credit for both ENG 3700 and ENG 3695.
RC 2001 or its equivalent and ENG 3090 or permission of the instructor.
____ Other with written approval of your advisor
3 hours
Professional Development: Related Areas
ANT 1415 Understanding Culture
3 hours
GEN ED: Social Science Designation; Integrative Learning Experience (Theme: "From Empire to Globalization")
This course explores the diversity and unity of human experience through the lens of cultural anthropology. Using case studies and other texts, students will gain familiarity with different cultural worlds. As they do so, they will be asked to think critically about their own cultural ideas and actions, to reflect on problems facing humanity in the contemporary world, and to understand the various ways in which they are historically and socially connected to other people in other places.
CI 4840 Video Production and Story
3 hours
This course is a basic introduction to the creative and technical skills needed to produce effective, low-budget video programs on location. Students will use the department's digital cameras and non-linear computer editing system to learn how to express themselves clearly in a wide variety of programming formats through the language of video. Students will gain experience in each of the three stages in the production process: pre-production, production, and post-production.
COM 3100 Interviewing Methods
3 hours
A study of communication variables in interview situations, including elements of informational, persuasive, health care, research, appraisal, journalistic and selection (employment) interviews. Includes a focus on question development and formulation, legal and ethical implications of interviewing techniques, interviewing as a theoretical perspective, and simulation interviews.
COM 3155 Persuasion
3 hours
This course explores the role of persuasion in public life. Students will learn to critically analyze and produce persuasive discourse in social, cultural, and democratic contexts in light of prevailing theories of social influence.
COM 1200 and COM 2101 or COM 2105, or consent of the instructor; and RC 2001 or its equivalent.
ECO 2030 Principles of Microeconomics
3 hours
GEN ED: Social Science Designation; Liberal Studies Experience
A brief introduction to the study of economics followed by an in-depth analysis of microeconomics, including: the price mechanism and supply and demand analysis; consumer choice; cost and revenue analysis of the firm; market structures; factor markets and income distribution; market failure and the role of government; and current economic problems such as pollution, poverty and discrimination.
ENT 3060 Design Thinking and Entrepreneurial Mindset
3 hours
Design Thinking and Entrepreneurial Mindset is an introductory course intended to help students develop creative problem-solving attributes and skills from a multi-stakeholder perspective. Central to this objective is understanding the entrepreneurial mindset and how it can be developed. Building on the entrepreneurial mindset, students will explore the design thinking process and how it can be applied successfully to virtually any organizational setting (e.g., start-up, corporate venturing, social venturing, public sector) to navigate uncertain and ambiguous environments and make a valuable impact.
54 earned hours
IDS 3260 Creativity: Methods & Practice
3 hours
How does creativity work? Cultural references to "the creative genius" promote a caricature, while the reality is that creative disciplines have their own processes and frameworks. This course provides an interdisciplinary exploration of creativity, focusing on how it arrives, is cultivated and experienced, and channeled into creative works. We will also explore the intersection of and/or tension between literary, visual, and performing arts and other academic disciplines. This class allows students to consider and experiment with multiple creative methodologies and the creative process including, but not limited to: inspiration-based to socially-engaged work, problem solving and design thinking, workshops and studio/lab experimentation. Specific focus of the course may vary with instructor.
MKT 3050 Principles of Marketing
3 hours
An introductory study of the marketing process in advanced market economies. Consideration of psychological theories and determinants of buyer behavior. A background in the elements of the marketing mix; the product distribution structure, the price system, and promotional activities. Survey of marketing in special fields. Planning and evaluating the marketing effort. Using computers to analyze marketing data; quantitative aspects of the marketing function.
45 earned hours and Marketing major OR 54 earned hours.
SD 2400 Principles of Sustainable Development
3 hours
GEN ED: Integrative Learning Experience (Theme: "Sustainability and Global Resources")
This course examines the concept and principles of sustainable development. We explore how economic development can be re-envisioned to ensure social and environmental justice, cultural integrity, and ecological resilience, including a livable climate and ecologically diverse landscapes and seascapes. We examine questions related to wealth, poverty, education, gender equality, health, and food security with an emphasis on economic, environmental, and social justice across local to global scales.
____ Other with written approval of your advisor
3 hours
Visiting Designer
Illustrator and designer Mickey Burton visited Appstate, gave a lecture and led a workshop with our students.
Robot Type Workshop with Ashley Pigford
RISO Prints for Hybrid Print Practices
Letterpress printing with 3D printed modular type
Typography III's Reflection of Practice assignment is, and always will be, one of the most valuable projects a design student will do while they're here.
Anna Canntrell
Reflections on Practice
Students in Typography III design and produce a book of their own writings about typographic practice.