Advertising and Graphic Design

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The Advertising and Graphic Design curriculum is designed to provide students with knowledge and skills necessary for employment in the graphic design profession which emphasizes design, advertising, illustration, and digital and multimedia preparation of printed and electronic promotional materials.

Students will be trained in the development of concept and design for promotional materials such as newspaper and magazine advertisements, posters, folders, letterheads, corporate symbols, brochures, booklets, preparation of art for printing, lettering and typography, photography, and electronic media.

Graduates should qualify for employment opportunities with graphic design studios, advertising agencies, printing companies, department stores, a wide variety of manufacturing industries, newspapers, and businesses with in-house graphics operations.

Learning Outcomes

  • Determine the best course of action for print media needs and produce that product using industry appropriate technology.
  • Determine the best use of typography and textual forms to achieve the desired visual response.
  • Recognize photographic compositions on site, direct models, and set designers to achieve specified visuals requested by a client and use digital photo manipulating techniques to achieve a desired visual.
  • Communicate effectively with marketing and merchandising personnel in working toward a mutually agreeable visual solution.
  • Discuss, explain, and justify visual solutions.

Job Outlook

Annual demand for Commercial and Advertising Art in our service area is currently 200 job openings. This is expected to decrease by 0.67% in the next year.

Contact Information

Image of Amber Arnder
Amber Arnder, BS
Lead Instructor - Advertising & Graphic Design
Phone: 336-838-6410
abarnder632@wilkescc.edu

Pathways

Course Requirements

    First Year - Fall Semester
    • ACA 115 Success & Study Skills

      This course provides an orientation to the campus resources and academic skills necessary to achieve educational objectives. Emphasis is placed on an exploration of facilities and services, study skills, library skills, self-assessment, wellness, goal-setting, and critical thinking. Upon completion, students should be able to manage their learning experiences to successfully meet educational goals.

    • ART 111 Art Appreciation

      This course introduces the origins and historical development of art. Emphasis is placed on the relationship of design principles to various art forms including but not limited to sculpture, painting, and architecture. Upon completion, students should be able to identify and analyze a variety of artistic styles, periods, and media.

    • DME 110 Intro to Digital Media

      This course introduces students to key concepts, technologies, and issues related to digital media. Topics include emerging standards, key technologies and related design issues, terminology, media formats, career paths, and ethical issues. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate the various media formats that are used in digital media technology.

    • GRD 141 Graphic Design I

      This course introduces the conceptualization process used in visual problem solving. Emphasis is placed on learning the principles of design and on the manipulation and organization of elements. Upon completion, students should be able to apply design principles and visual elements to projects.

    • GRD 151 Computer Design Basics

      This course covers designing and drawing with various types of software applications for advertising and graphic design. Emphasis is placed on creative and imaginative use of space, shapes, value, texture, color, and typography to provide effective solutions to advertising and graphic design problems. Upon completion, students should be able to use the computer as a creative tool.

    • ENG 110 or ENG 111

      Freshman Composition or Writing and Inquiry

    First Year - Spring Semester
    • DME 140 Intro to Audio/Video Media

      This course is designed to teach students how to manipulate digital and audio content for multimedia applications. Topics include format conversion and a review of current technologies and digital formats. Upon completion, students should be able to modify existing audio and video content to meet a range of production requirements associated with digital media applications.

    • GRD 110 Typography I

      This course introduces the history and mechanics of type and its application to layout and design. Topics include typographic fundamentals, anatomy, measurements, composition, identification, and terminology. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate proficiency in design application, analysis, specification, and creation of typographic elements.

    • GRD 121 Drawing Fundamentals I

      This course increases observation skills using basic drawing techniques and media in graphic design. Emphasis is placed on developing the use of graphic design principles, media applications, spatial considerations, drawing styles, and approaches. Upon completion, students should be able to show competence and proficiency in finished works.

    • GRD 142 Graphic Design II

      This course covers the application of visual elements and design principles in advertising and graphic design. Topics include creation of various designs, such as logos, advertisements, posters, outdoor advertising, and publication design. Upon completion, students should be able to effectively apply design principles and visual elements to projects.

    • ENG 112 or COM 231

      Writing/Research in the Disc or Public Speaking

    • MAT 110 or MAT 143

      Math Measurement & Literacy or Quantitative Literacy

    Second Year - Fall Semester
    • GRD 131 Illustration I

      This course introduces the application of rendering techniques to create illustrations. Emphasis is placed on controlling various media, methods, surfaces, design problems, and the appropriate media selection process. Upon completion, students should be able to produce quality illustrations from conception through finished artwork.

    • GRD 152 Computer Design Tech I

      This course covers complex design problems utilizing various design and drawing software applications. Topics include the expressive use of typography, image, and organization to communicate a message. Upon completion, students should be able to use appropriate computer software to professionally present their work.

    • GRD 167 Photographic Imaging I

      This course introduces basic camera operations and photographic production. Topics include subject composition, depth of field, shutter control, light control, color, photo-finishing, and digital imaging, correction and output. Upon completion, students should be able to produce traditional and/or digital photographic prints with acceptable technical and compositional quality.

    • GRD 188 Graphic Design for Web I

      This course introduces the application of graphic design principles to web sites and graphics for web/mobile device delivery. Emphasis is placed on visual communication and presentation principles applied to web sites, including page layout, typography, color theory, navigation, responsive design, and image optimization. Upon completion, students should be able to apply the principles of design in the creation of full and mobile websites.

    • GRD 241 Graphic Design III

      This course is an advanced exploration of various techniques and media for advertising and graphic design. Emphasis is placed on advanced concepts and solutions to complex and challenging graphic design problems. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate competence and professionalism in visual problem solving.

    • Social/Behavioral Science Elective

      Following are social/behavioral science elective courses that are recommended for fulfilling social/behavioral science elective requirements. All of the courses listed earn a minimum of three semester hours of credit. Other courses with social/behavioral science elective prefixes may be suitable for these requirements as well. Students should discuss all course selections with their advisor before registration. ANT 220, ECO 151, ECO 251, ECO 252, GEO 111, GEO 130, HIS 111, HIS 112, HIS 116, HIS 121, HIS 122, HIS 131, HIS 132, HIS 145, HIS 163, HIS 211, POL 120, POL 130, POL 220, PSY 118, PSY 150, PSY 241, PSY 281, SOC 210, SOC 213, SOC 220

    Second Year - Spring Semester
    • GRD 168 Photographic Imaging II

      This course introduces advanced camera operations and photographic production. Topics include lighting, specialized equipment, digital image correction and output, and other methods and materials. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate proficiency in producing high quality photographic prints.

    • GRD 242 Graphic Design IV

      This course is a continuation of GRD 241. Emphasis is placed on using advanced media techniques, concepts, strategies, and professionalism in all aspects of design. Upon completion, students should be able to conceptualize, create, and produce designs for reproduction.

    • GRD 280 Portfolio Design

      This course covers the organization and presentation of a design/advertising or graphic art portfolio and appropriate related materials. Emphasis is placed on development and evaluation of the portfolio, design and production of a resume and self-promotional materials, and interview techniques. Upon completion, students should be able to prepare and professionally present an effective portfolio and related self-promotional materials.

    • MKT 232 Social Media Marketing

      This course is designed to build students' social media marketing skills by utilizing projects that give students hands on experience implementing social media marketing strategies. Topics include integrating different social media technologies into a marketing plan, creating social media marketing campaigns, and applying appropriate social media tools. Upon completion, students should be able to use social media technologies to create and improve marketing efforts for businesses.

    • WBL 111 Work-Based Learning I

      This course provides a work-based learning experience with a college-approved employer in an area related to the student's program of study. Emphasis is placed on integrating classroom learning with related work experience. Upon completion, students should be able to evaluate career selection, demonstrate employability skills, and satisfactorily perform work-related competencies.

    Course Requirements

      Fall Semester
      • ACA 115 Success & Study Skills

        This course provides an orientation to the campus resources and academic skills necessary to achieve educational objectives. Emphasis is placed on an exploration of facilities and services, study skills, library skills, self-assessment, wellness, goal-setting, and critical thinking. Upon completion, students should be able to manage their learning experiences to successfully meet educational goals.

      • ART 111 Art Appreciation

        This course introduces the origins and historical development of art. Emphasis is placed on the relationship of design principles to various art forms including but not limited to sculpture, painting, and architecture. Upon completion, students should be able to identify and analyze a variety of artistic styles, periods, and media.

      • DME 110 Intro to Digital Media

        This course introduces students to key concepts, technologies, and issues related to digital media. Topics include emerging standards, key technologies and related design issues, terminology, media formats, career paths, and ethical issues. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate the various media formats that are used in digital media technology.

      • GRD 141 Graphic Design I

        This course introduces the conceptualization process used in visual problem solving. Emphasis is placed on learning the principles of design and on the manipulation and organization of elements. Upon completion, students should be able to apply design principles and visual elements to projects.

      • GRD 151 Computer Design Basics

        This course covers designing and drawing with various types of software applications for advertising and graphic design. Emphasis is placed on creative and imaginative use of space, shapes, value, texture, color, and typography to provide effective solutions to advertising and graphic design problems. Upon completion, students should be able to use the computer as a creative tool.

      • GRD 167 Photographic Imaging I

        This course introduces basic camera operations and photographic production. Topics include subject composition, depth of field, shutter control, light control, color, photo-finishing, and digital imaging, correction and output. Upon completion, students should be able to produce traditional and/or digital photographic prints with acceptable technical and compositional quality.

      • ENG 110 or ENG 111

        Freshman Composition or Writing and Inquiry

      Spring Semester
      • DME 140 Intro to Audio/Video Media

        This course is designed to teach students how to manipulate digital and audio content for multimedia applications. Topics include format conversion and a review of current technologies and digital formats. Upon completion, students should be able to modify existing audio and video content to meet a range of production requirements associated with digital media applications.

      • GRD 110 Typography I

        This course introduces the history and mechanics of type and its application to layout and design. Topics include typographic fundamentals, anatomy, measurements, composition, identification, and terminology. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate proficiency in design application, analysis, specification, and creation of typographic elements.

      • GRD 121 Drawing Fundamentals I

        This course increases observation skills using basic drawing techniques and media in graphic design. Emphasis is placed on developing the use of graphic design principles, media applications, spatial considerations, drawing styles, and approaches. Upon completion, students should be able to show competence and proficiency in finished works.

      • GRD 142 Graphic Design II

        This course covers the application of visual elements and design principles in advertising and graphic design. Topics include creation of various designs, such as logos, advertisements, posters, outdoor advertising, and publication design. Upon completion, students should be able to effectively apply design principles and visual elements to projects.

      • GRD 168 Photographic Imaging II

        This course introduces advanced camera operations and photographic production. Topics include lighting, specialized equipment, digital image correction and output, and other methods and materials. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate proficiency in producing high quality photographic prints.

      • ENG 112 or COM 231

        Writing/Research in the Disc or Public Speaking

      Course Requirements

      • DME 110 Intro to Digital Media

        This course introduces students to key concepts, technologies, and issues related to digital media. Topics include emerging standards, key technologies and related design issues, terminology, media formats, career paths, and ethical issues. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate the various media formats that are used in digital media technology.

      • DME 140 Intro to Audio/Video Media

        This course is designed to teach students how to manipulate digital and audio content for multimedia applications. Topics include format conversion and a review of current technologies and digital formats. Upon completion, students should be able to modify existing audio and video content to meet a range of production requirements associated with digital media applications.

      • GRD 141 Graphic Design I

        This course introduces the conceptualization process used in visual problem solving. Emphasis is placed on learning the principles of design and on the manipulation and organization of elements. Upon completion, students should be able to apply design principles and visual elements to projects.

      • GRD 188 Graphic Design for Web I

        This course introduces the application of graphic design principles to web sites and graphics for web/mobile device delivery. Emphasis is placed on visual communication and presentation principles applied to web sites, including page layout, typography, color theory, navigation, responsive design, and image optimization. Upon completion, students should be able to apply the principles of design in the creation of full and mobile websites.

      Course Requirements

      • GRD 110 Typography I

        This course introduces the history and mechanics of type and its application to layout and design. Topics include typographic fundamentals, anatomy, measurements, composition, identification, and terminology. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate proficiency in design application, analysis, specification, and creation of typographic elements.

      • GRD 141 Graphic Design I

        This course introduces the conceptualization process used in visual problem solving. Emphasis is placed on learning the principles of design and on the manipulation and organization of elements. Upon completion, students should be able to apply design principles and visual elements to projects.

      • GRD 142 Graphic Design II

        This course covers the application of visual elements and design principles in advertising and graphic design. Topics include creation of various designs, such as logos, advertisements, posters, outdoor advertising, and publication design. Upon completion, students should be able to effectively apply design principles and visual elements to projects.

      • GRD 151 Computer Design Basics

        This course covers designing and drawing with various types of software applications for advertising and graphic design. Emphasis is placed on creative and imaginative use of space, shapes, value, texture, color, and typography to provide effective solutions to advertising and graphic design problems. Upon completion, students should be able to use the computer as a creative tool.

      Course Requirements

      • GRD 141 Graphic Design I

        This course introduces the conceptualization process used in visual problem solving. Emphasis is placed on learning the principles of design and on the manipulation and organization of elements. Upon completion, students should be able to apply design principles and visual elements to projects.

      • GRD 151 Computer Design Basics

        This course covers designing and drawing with various types of software applications for advertising and graphic design. Emphasis is placed on creative and imaginative use of space, shapes, value, texture, color, and typography to provide effective solutions to advertising and graphic design problems. Upon completion, students should be able to use the computer as a creative tool.

      • GRD 167 Photographic Imaging I

        This course introduces basic camera operations and photographic production. Topics include subject composition, depth of field, shutter control, light control, color, photo-finishing, and digital imaging, correction and output. Upon completion, students should be able to produce traditional and/or digital photographic prints with acceptable technical and compositional quality.

      • GRD 168 Photographic Imaging II

        This course introduces advanced camera operations and photographic production. Topics include lighting, specialized equipment, digital image correction and output, and other methods and materials. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate proficiency in producing high quality photographic prints.

      Course Requirements

      • GRD 110 Typography I

        This course introduces the history and mechanics of type and its application to layout and design. Topics include typographic fundamentals, anatomy, measurements, composition, identification, and terminology. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate proficiency in design application, analysis, specification, and creation of typographic elements.

      • GRD 121 Drawing Fundamentals I

        This course increases observation skills using basic drawing techniques and media in graphic design. Emphasis is placed on developing the use of graphic design principles, media applications, spatial considerations, drawing styles, and approaches. Upon completion, students should be able to show competence and proficiency in finished works.

      • GRD 141 Graphic Design I

        This course introduces the conceptualization process used in visual problem solving. Emphasis is placed on learning the principles of design and on the manipulation and organization of elements. Upon completion, students should be able to apply design principles and visual elements to projects.

      • GRD 151 Computer Design Basics

        This course covers designing and drawing with various types of software applications for advertising and graphic design. Emphasis is placed on creative and imaginative use of space, shapes, value, texture, color, and typography to provide effective solutions to advertising and graphic design problems. Upon completion, students should be able to use the computer as a creative tool.

      Course Requirements

      • GRD 141 Graphic Design I

        This course introduces the conceptualization process used in visual problem solving. Emphasis is placed on learning the principles of design and on the manipulation and organization of elements. Upon completion, students should be able to apply design principles and visual elements to projects.

      • GRD 151 Computer Design Basics

        This course covers designing and drawing with various types of software applications for advertising and graphic design. Emphasis is placed on creative and imaginative use of space, shapes, value, texture, color, and typography to provide effective solutions to advertising and graphic design problems. Upon completion, students should be able to use the computer as a creative tool.

      • GRD 167 Photographic Imaging I

        This course introduces basic camera operations and photographic production. Topics include subject composition, depth of field, shutter control, light control, color, photo-finishing, and digital imaging, correction and output. Upon completion, students should be able to produce traditional and/or digital photographic prints with acceptable technical and compositional quality.

      • GRD 168 Photographic Imaging II

        This course introduces advanced camera operations and photographic production. Topics include lighting, specialized equipment, digital image correction and output, and other methods and materials. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate proficiency in producing high quality photographic prints.

      Technical Standards

      The Advertising and Graphic Design program technical standards have been developed to inform students of the nonacademic essential functions of the program and profession. Examples are not all inclusive.

      Standard Essential Function Examples
      Communication
      Oral / Written
      • Skills sufficient to communicate information and ideas so others will understand
      • Communicate with coworkers and customers via email, phone, or face-to-face
      Mobility / Motor Skills
      • Motor skills sufficient to grasp and manipulate objects
      • Ability to perform basic computer functions
      • Mobility sufficient to perform physical activities that require occasional use of arms and legs and moving the whole body
      • Move a computer mouse, draw with a stylus, draw with paper and pencil, insert flash drive, use a camera, use paper cutter, use x-acto knife, etc.
      • Press multiple keyboard keys simultaneously
      • Physical activities may include:
        • Bending
        • Squatting
        • Lifting
        • Climbing
      Physical Strength and Stamina
      • Ability to sit at computer for extended periods of time
      • Ability sufficient to lift equipment
      • Sit at desk for periods of time to finish projects
      • Carry and set up photography equipment
      Sensory

      • Sight
      • Sound
      • Taste
      • Touch
      • Smell
      • Visual skills sufficient to see details at close range
      • Ability to clearly distinguish colors and shades of color
      • Distinguish keyboard keys and small details on ruler or computer monitor
      • Use multiple colors in a project
      Environmental / Occupational Exposure
      • Possible exposure to chemicals and fumes
      • Chemical exposure in printing processes such as various glues and inks
      Field or Industry Professional Standards

      Disability Services Statement

      Wilkes Community College is an ADA compliant institution. WCC does not discriminate based on a disability in the admissions process or in access to its programs, services, and/or activities for qualified individuals who meet eligibility requirements. WCC will provide reasonable accommodations for individuals with documented disabilities who are eligible to receive or participate in college programs, services, and/or activities. If a student believes that he/she cannot meet one or more of a program’s essential functions without accommodations, the student is encouraged to disclose this to Disability Services as soon as possible.

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