Course Descriptions 2008-2009 Catalog

Multimedia/ Graphic Design

MGD 101 Introduction to Computer Graphics
3 Credits
Introduces the student to the computer system developed for graphics. The student will learn the hardware and software components for multimedia production. Each student will explore basic computer operations, ergonomics, file management, scanning techniques, archiving capabilities, and utilization of the multimedia department server and Internet connection.

MGD 102 Introduction to Multimedia
3 Credits
Introduces the types of equipment and technical considerations used in multimedia productions and the multimedia professions. It focuses on current types of equipment such as scanners, printers, digital cameras and computers. Students gain hands-on experience in how the technology is utilized for input and output in production and design projects. Overview of software and basic design principles will be explored.

MGD 103 Introduction to Production Design
3 Credits
Explores the use of tools, computer graphics techniques and design layout principles to produce professional graphic designs. Studies include printing basics, typography and digital color systems. Students use creative thinking to solve communication and design concepts for the output process.
PREREQUISITES: MGD 101, MGD 133 or ART 131.
COREQUISITES: MGD 112, MGD 113.

MGD 105 Typography and Layout
3 Credits
Covers the creation and production of graphic projects, emphasizing the layout creative design process, problem solving, and research. Provides experience producing thumbnails, roughs and digital layouts emphasizing refined creative typography.
COREQUISITE: MGD 101 or Instructor's permission.

MGD 111 Adobe Photoshop I
3 Credits
Concentrates on the high-end capabilities of a raster photo-editing software as an illustration, design and photo retouching tool. Students explore a wide range of selection and manipulation techniques that can be applied to photos, graphics and videos.
PREREQUISITE: MGD 101 or Instructor's permission.

MGD 112 Adobe Illustrator I
3 Credits
Acquaints students with the processes of a vector drawing program on the computer. Students learn how to use the tools to create digital artwork that can be used in Web design, print media and digital screen design.
PREREQUISITE: MGD 101 or Instructor's permission.

MGD 113 QuarkXPress
3 Credits
Introduces students to QuarkXPress, a digital page layout tool. Students learn how to assemble, organize, manipulate and manage text and graphics to produce a high quality publication. Class discussions and independent projects supplement hands-on classroom work.
PREREQUISITE: MGD 101 or Instructor's permission.

MGD 114 Adobe InDesign
3 Credits
Introduces students to InDesign, a page layout program which integrates seamlessly with other Adobe design programs. InDesign delivers creative freedom and productivity to DTP. Class discussions and independent projects supplement hands-on classroom work.
PREREQUISITE: MGD 101 or Instructor's permission.

MGD 117 Introduction to Visual Communications
3 Credits
Surveys visual communications, its history and impact on society. A foundation course for graphic design and illustration majors and a survey for non-majors who are interested in the field. Assignments require minimal artistic talent.

MGD 128 Multimedia Hardware
3 Credits
Teaches the principles and techniques of maintaining, upgrading, and customizing personal computer systems. Emphasis will also be placed on various emerging and established technologies related to graphic computing.

MGD 133 Graphic Design I
3 Credits
Focuses upon the study of design layout and conceptual elements concerning graphic design projects such as posters, advertisements, logos, and brochures.

MGD 141 Web Design I
3 Credits
Introduces Web site planning, design and creation using industry-standards-based Web site development tools. Screen-based color theory, Web aesthetics, use of graphics editors and intuitive interface design are explored.
PREREQUISITE: MGD 101 or Instructor's permission.

MGD 143 Motion Graphic Design I: Flash
3 Credits
Stresses creation of animation and dynamic interactive media for Web and multimedia applications. Students will learn how to animate objects, create symbols, and assemble motion tweens.
PREREQUISITES: MGD 111, 141.

MGD 152 Digital Animatics
3 Credits
Introduces the steps followed by professional animators and game designers for producing media in a digital environment. Students learn the foundational skills of planning, organizing, storyboarding and pre-visualization techniques necessary to create animated stories. Students will also study the history of animation and game design.

MGD 153 3-D Animation I
3 Credits
Encompasses all major aspects of creating 3D characters using animation software. Using developed characters, the student will learn how to animate for personality.

MGD 155 LightWave I
3 Credits
Introduces students to LightWave's Modeler program with an emphasis on modeling techniques. It also touches on LightWave's Layout program for setting up scenes with texture maps and lighting. There will also be instruction on how to import models from other programs.
PREREQUISITE: MGD 101 or Instructor's permission.

MGD 163 Sound Design I
3 Credits
Explores the use of sound in multimedia production and audio storytelling. Students examine the principles of recording. Classes focus on how sound can enhance interactive productions and improve computer presentations. Students learn how to use the computer as a full audio editing studio.

MGD 164 Digital Video Editing I
3 Credits
Introduces to digital non-linear video editing. Students will capture, compress, edit, and manipulate video images using a personal computer. Assembly techniques including media management, editing tools, titles, and motion control; transitions and filters, and special effects are explored.
PREREQUISITE: MGD 102 or Instructor's permission.

MGD 207 Illustration I
3 Credits
Addresses methods and techniques used in the profession of illustration for advertising, brochures, books and other forms of printed communications. Course concentrates on developing expertise in producing line and continuous-tone black-and-white art with emphasis on design and the creation of art for reproduction.
PREREQUISITE: ART 121.

MGD 208 Illustration II
3 Credits
Addresses methods and techniques used in the illustration profession beyond those covered in Illustration I. Course concentrates on developing expertise in producing color art for reproduction.
PREREQUISITE: MGD 207.

MGD 209 Illustration III
3 Credits
Continues Illustration II with added emphasis on conceptual development and proficiency in technique.
PREREQUISITE: MGD 208.

MGD 210 Illustration IV
3 Credits
Covers advanced illustration techniques including manual, computer, and mixed media techniques.
PREREQUISITE: MGD 209.

MGD 211 Adobe Photoshop II
3 Credits
Develops and reinforces image composition techniques learned in Adobe Photoshop I, MGD 111. Fundamentals are continuously reinforced as new design techniques are introduced.
PREREQUISITE: MGD 111.

MGD 212 Adobe Illustrator II
3 Credits
Enables the student to continue development of electronic drawing skills through practice and use of state of the art illustration software.
PREREQUISITE: MGD 112.

MGD 213 Electronic Prepress
3 Credits
Explores in detail the electronic prepress process. Students examine steps for preparing a digital file for trapping, output considerations and proofing techniques. Creating effective electronic designs and efficient use of today's software programs are also covered.
PREREQUISITE: MGD 113.

MGD 214 Macintosh Troubleshooting for Designers
3 Credits
Addresses terminology, hardware, graphics software applications, peripherals, and troubleshooting needs of designers who use the Macintosh computer as a production tool.
PREREQUISITE: MGD 101 or Instructor's permission.

MGD 250 Emerging Multimedia Technologies
3 Credits
Provides a broad-based overview of current trends and issues in multimedia development and related industries. The class format will include lectures, readings, demos, discussion, research, projects, and a final student presentation. Course content changes each semester. May include topics such as voice/data/video integration, virtual environments, broadband, streaming media architectures, telco/CATV/satellite technologies, network-based applications, using technology for building community, wireless technology, current thinking in human factors and usability, XML and the semantic Web, groupware and collaborative tools, pervasive computing, and others.
PREREQUISITES: MGD 128, 161.

MGD 256 Graphic Design Production
3 Credits
Provides an opportunity to combine several draw and paint applications into one design and layout class. Students will explore advanced techniques in creating and designing computer art.
PREREQUISITES: MGD 101, 105, 133 or ART 131.
COREQUISITES: MGD 103, 112, 113.

MGD 260 Graphic Design Production II
3 Credits
Continues design and production techniques with further instruction in computer file set-up and creation of camera-ready art. Use of black and white and spot color for a variety of design projects.
PPREREQUISITE: MGD 256.
COREQUISITE: MGD 111.

MGD 262 Graphic Design Production III
3 Credits
Covers advanced study in design and production techniques and processes, including use of full color for publication design and book formats, advertising campaigns, business reply mail, promotional items, and editorial design.
PREREQUISITE: MGD 260.

MGD 264 Digital Video Editing II
3 Credits
Looks at the more complex and advanced techniques of digital video editing. Areas of editing such as masking, filtering, blue/green screening, track mattes, and image mattes will be examined. Students will produce a movie project in this class and discuss practical ways to distribute to various audiences.
PREREQUISITES: MGD 111, 164.

MGD 275 Special Topics
1-6 Credits
Provides students with a vehicle to pursue in-depth exploration of special topics of interest.
PREREQUISITES: To be determined by the Instructor.

MGD 280 Internship
3 Credits
Provides students with the opportunity to supplement course work with practical work experience related to their educational program. Students work under the immediate supervision of experienced personnel at the business location and with the direct guidance of the Instructor.
PREREQUISITES: MGD 112, 113 and 256 with grades of "B" or better for each class.

MGD 285 Independent Study (formerly GDI 285)
1-6 Credits
Meets the individual needs of students. Students engage in intensive study or research under the direction of a qualified Instructor.
PREREQUISITES: To be determined by the Instructor.

MGD 287 Cooperative Education
3 Credits
Provides students an opportunity to gain practical experience in applying their occupational skills and/or to develop specific skills in a practical work setting. The Instructor will work with the student to select an appropriate work site, establish learning objectives and to coordinate learning activities with the employer or work site supervisor.
PREREQUISITES: To be determined by the Instructor. Student must also have a resume and portfolio to present.

MGD 289 Capstone
3 Credits
A demonstrated culmination of learning within a given program of study.
PREREQUISITES: MGD 103, 256; MGD 260 strongly suggested as a prerequisite, or may be taken as a corequisite.Must be taken the final semester before graduation.