Graphic Communications I will introduce the student to the field of Graphic Communications (GC).  The class is intended to be a overview of all phases of the GC processes, from origination of an idea, through design (development and refinement), to production procedures and post-press operations.  Emphasis will be on the procedures involved in Graphic Design and Desktop Publishing, including (but not limited to) the elements and principles of design; text composition and typography; image creation and editing; digital photography and photo manipulation; color; and document layout for the production of two-dimensional products and screen printing.  For each of the main categories of instruction, students will be expected to use the skills and techniques taught to create production-ready projects.  Students will also receive hands-on instruction in one or more printing methods and several post-production procedures.

Graphic Communications II will investigate further all of the processes and procedures introduced in the Graphic Communications I.  Emphasis will be on more complicated and involved design projects; career possibilities in the GC field; and production of a job-interview-quality portfolio of the student’s work.  Students will also be given an opportunity to participate in a National GC contest.

Internships are available in area graphic arts companies through this program.  Students may specialize in a specific graphic arts area or participate in paid cooperative education at a community graphic arts training site in the second year of the program.