The Graphic Art minor prepares students for careers in commercial and digital art by developing skills in both traditional design techniques and computer-based media. Students gain experience in layout design, typography, branding, and digital illustration using industry-standard software. This minor pairs well with a variety of majors, providing valuable visual communication skills applicable in marketing, business, media production, and web design. Graduates can pursue careers in graphic design, advertising, publishing, or multimedia production.
APCS 112 – Computer Applications for Communications
3 credit hours
Advanced survey of communication application software, which includes advanced word processing, desktop publishing and E-Commerce. Topics with word-processing include mail-merge and web page development. Topics with desktop publishing include multi-page layouts, typesetting, working with tables, grouped items and layers for producing brochures or newsletters. Topics with E-Commerce include business on the Internet, business services online, Internet marketing, digital advertising and web site development. Lab experience with microcomputer software. Lab fee required. Typically offered fall semester.
Prerequisite: LDRS 105
APCS 201 – Programming Fundamentals
2 Credit hours
Concepts of structured programming including control structure design – sequence, selection, iteration and method call; concepts of data abstraction including primitive data types, strings, arrays, library objects and files. Laboratory experience emphasizing application development.
Prerequisite: LDRS 105
APCS 336 – Web Programming
3 credit hours
Introduction to range of programming and data management tools in the context of full-stack web application development. Students will become familiar with web development concepts and terminology. Web programming, database design and setup are integrated with design techniques and project management to give the student firsthand experience with live website development. Some hands-on experience with software such as Apache, PHP, MySQL, and specialized text editors.
Prerequisite: APCS 201
ART 121 – Drawing I
3 credit hours
Drawing in various media including pencil, charcoal, conté, pastel, and pen and ink. Subjects include still life, models, landscape, and animals.
ART 134 – 2‐Dimensional Design
3 credit hours
Principles of design, the creative process, and applying basic formats and theories in simple design and projects. Analysis of design and compositional elements. Principles of color theories. Emphasis on line drawings, marker renderings, perspective concepts, and basic drawing skills. Introduction to personal computer tools such as image manipulation and vector-based illustration software. Lab fee required. Offered every fall.
ART 211 – Digital Photography
3 credit hours
This beginning photography course will introduce students to the basic technical concepts and photographic composition principles. The course will also cover photo editing software and standard optimization and compositing techniques. Visual storytelling through photojournalism and writing compelling cut lines will also be taught.
Same as COMM 211
ART 215 – History of Art
3 credit hours
An art historical introduction to field methodologies and the effects of scholarship on the discipline. The course covers scholarship as it chronologically develops from Winkelmann to Panofsky.
ART 235 – Graphic Art
3 credit hours
Lecture and lab will develop a solid base in technical and creative skills utilizing the latest personal computer tools. Emphasis on design of logos, typography and type as a design element, packaging materials, continuous page layout, and grid design. Emphasis on the design process of digitally produced materials, developed in stages from roughs and overlays to presentations of illustrations, advertisements, and brochures. Will use Adobe image manipulation software, vector-based illustration software, and specialized computer graphic tools to integrate images and type in producing posters, signage, direct mail advertisements, and advertising.
Prerequisite: LDRS 105, ART 134