DSGN 014 - Introduction to Visual Design
Course Description
This is your chance to explore the foundations of visual design and discover career opportunities within the graphic arts industry. In this course, you'll learn the history and practices of printing and publishing, explore key industry applications, and develop your own approach to typography and page design. Capture an understanding of colour, elements of design, typography, and layout design as you explore the design process from idea conception to project completion. Experience hands-on print production systems, beginning with idea analysis through filing output using industry-standard pre-press techniques.
This course covers topics in visual design, including colour theory, design elements and principles, typography, typesetting, page design and more. Gain the knowledge, skills, and abilities you need to know to bring your print projects to life and create professional publications.
Earn a SAIT micro-credential
This course qualifies for the SAITMicro badge. Students who successfully complete this course with a final grade of A- (80%) or higher will earn a micro-credential and receive a shareable digital badge. Learn more
Learner Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, you will be able to:
- define the role of visual design, including history, career opportunities, industry standards and design theory
- describe industry practices and how to prepare for a career in graphic design and communications
- identify key graphic arts industry practices
- prepare for client work and professional job interviews
- use the creative design process to prepare creative briefs and to research, brainstorm, sketch, create and present to clients
- use principles and elements of design to create visually-appealing designs
- use colour theory to create colour schemes, harmony, and contrasts
- use typography tools to create professionally-designed documents
- create and modify page layouts to enhance the effectiveness of your designs
- publish professional print documents using print pre-press techniques
- design a complex and compelling design project that highlights your conceptual, creative, and technical skills and communicates your design process.
Notes
Based on the nature of the course content, we recommend those taking this course to have two computer monitors.
Recommended course material:
Graphic Design: The New Basics: Second Edition, Revised and Expanded, By Ellen Lupton and Jennifer Cole Phillips, 2015, Princeton Architectural Press, ISBN-10 : 9781616893323, ISBN-13 : 978-1616893323
Prerequisites
There are no pre-requisites for this course.Applies Towards the Following Certificates
- Graphic Design Certificate of Achievement : Required Courses