Category: Communication Design Courses

This required interaction course, is the second in a sequence of three, that applies an understanding of intermediate design principles, code language(s), and software used in the creation of web-based communications that are dynamic and responsive, focusing on dynamic user experiences. The role of clear information hierarchy through mapping and wireframing are key considerations in the development of interactive solutions. Through assigned projects students will understand the complex nature of user experience design solutions that need to function in a variety of digital systems, environments, and platforms that consider human centered needs including a broader definition of user and user groups. Concepts and techniques of appropriate hardware and software are integrated into exercises that aid in the creation of well-crafts messages applied to informed design solutions. Students may elect to take additional Interaction Design courses like Experience I and II, starting in the junior year.

Credits: 3

Prerequisites:, DGD 211, DGD 251, DGD 263

This required senior course, is the first in a sequence of two that expands on the theories, processes and methods presented in the third year. In this course students expand their knowledge of branding to the larger underlying conditions such as economic, political and cultural that facilitates excellence in communication design practice. Students develop tools for assessing success in brand concepts, through inquiries into the strategies behind contemporary brand solutions. Projects have collaborative phases, a skill that prepares students for professional life. Research methods are applied as a means to creating informed design solutions that include readings, lectures and written analysis that consider the strategic role building a cohesive brand system with inclusive audiences integral to defining successful student outcomes.

Credits: 3

Prerequisites: DGD 317, DGD 311 OR DGD 312

This required course, is the second in a sequence of sophomore courses, that develops an understanding of theories, processes, and methods associate with Communication Design practices. Through assigned projects, students develop the ability to research content that translates into concept, that consider audience, and utilize creative problem-solving methodologies in order to create a system of visual communication solutions. Design Writing, research, and presentation are included in this studio course, which centers inquiry around concepts of Communication Design History in the creation of well-crafted narratives applied to informed design solutions (print or digital) that provides a greater understanding of the rich lexicon of design language(s) past and present.

Credits: 3

Prerequisites: DGD 259, DGD 251, DGD 276 OR DGD 211

This required course, is the second in a sequence of senior year courses, that develops an understanding of theories, processes, and methods associate with Communication Design practices. Design writing, advanced research methods, and critical thinking are skills reinforced in this studio course in order to fully develop the student’s knowledge of advanced narrative concepts. Projects expand on the student’s lexicon of design language(s) and delves into the role of personal voice in the creation of projects centered around a personal thesis. Students create a research log, write a thesis statement, present, and manage timelines with the support and guidance of faculty.

Credits: 3

Prerequisites: DGD 317, DGD 311 OR DGD 312

The Special Project class is offered on an occasional basis, with course content specific to the area(s) being explored. document.

Credits: 3

Prerequisites:

The final required course examines concepts of contemporary design practice within the area of Communication Design. In this course students expand their understanding of various forms of practice, from independent contract to junior/senior positions in studio ownership. The course is dedicated to the review, analysis, preparation of an individual comprehensive portfolio. Based on personal goals and faculty assessment, students develop tools to position themselves in the professional market. These would include resume, websites, print, communications, and other materials to prepare them for their professional studio practice. This course includes on-site/remote visits that includes BIPOC business leaders and studios practitioners as additional preparation for entering the professional design market.

Credits: 3

Prerequisites: DGD 312, DGD 317

This required course, the first in a sequence of two, expands on the theories, processes and methods presented in the second year. Students are introduced to concepts of branding as it relates to local or small entrepreneurial business models. Through a series of projects, students learn how to employ design thinking in order to develop a visual brand strategy. In this course students are presented with creative problem-solving methods to help them make design decisions that consider content, concept, audience and communication systems. Concepts of meaning are explored by using semiotic theories that aid in the creation of well-crafted messages applied to informed design solutions intended for different audience/users.

Credits: 3

Prerequisites: DGD 212 OR DGD 277

Participation in an internship experience allows students to use classroom-learned skills in a related employment experience. Students must work a minimum of 135 hours over the course of the entire semester. To participate students must be of junior or senior status with completion of freshman and sophomore studios. Students must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.8. Seniors may not be eligible to participate in an internship during their final semester. Transfer students must have attended one semester at CCS in addition to meeting the other eligibility criteria.

Credits: 3

Prerequisites: DGD 311 OR DGD 312

This required course, is the second in a sequence of junior year courses, that develops an understanding of theories, processes, and methods associate with Communication Design practices. Through assigned projects, students develop the ability to research content that translates into concept, for an intended audience(s). Design writing, research, presentation, and critical thinking is included in this studio course, which centers inquiry around concepts of social, cultural, ethical and business implications of strategic design thinking. Students utilize creative problem-solving methodologies to design solutions that demonstrate a greater understanding of a broader world view, while considering the role design can have in translating challenges into opportunities that positively impact intended users, in the creation of well-crafted informed design solutions intended for different audience/users.

Credits: 3

Prerequisites: DGD 212 OR DGD 277

The goal of the course is to expand the student’s understanding of how messages are created as dynamic experiences using sound, physical or proximity interaction, typography, image and sequence. Projects develop the student’s ability to create messages that function as dynamic narrative and as clusters of data points experienced in time and space. The practical application of these concepts can be seen in exhibitions for museums and corporations, public spaces and as integrated components of retailing and way-finding.

Credits: 3

Prerequisites: DGD 378, DGD 311 OR DGD 312