Course
Foundations of Design
DSGN-40000
Learn the Fundamentals of Graphic Design
No Prerequisite | 10 Weeks
Dive into the world of graphic design with our online Foundations of Design course, where you'll explore the fundamental principles that make design a powerful tool for communication.
This course is designed to equip you with the skills to create visually engaging, strategic designs that communicate effectively. Whether you're a beginner or looking to refine your design expertise, this project-based course emphasizes applied learning, ensuring you gain hands-on experience while developing pieces for a professional portfolio.
Course Details
Throughout the course, you'll delve into core design concepts such as typography, color theory, layout, and composition. You'll learn how to apply these principles to create designs that are not only visually appealing but also align with strategic goals and audience needs. The course also emphasizes the importance of design thinking, helping you develop creative briefs, brainstorm ideas, and engage in the creative process to produce work that meets specific objectives. By combining theory with practical application, you’ll gain the confidence to take on real-world design challenges.In addition to learning design principles like balance, contrast, alignment, and repetition, you’ll use key design tools, including Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator. You’ll also explore cutting-edge AI tools that are revolutionizing the design industry. Each week, you'll complete project-based exercises that integrate design theory with practical application, allowing you to showcase your skills and creativity. By the end of the course, you'll have a solid understanding of design basics and techniques, plus an approach to tackling design challenges in the professional world.
What You'll Learn
- Understand the core principles of graphic design, including balance, contrast, alignment, and repetition.
- Develop proficiency in typography, including font selection, hierarchy, and readability.
- Master color theory and apply psychological principles to color selection and design.
- Learn the fundamentals of layout and composition using grids, white space, and visual flow.
- Gain expertise in design thinking and the ability to create effective creative briefs.
- Enhance your ability to brainstorm, ideate, and discover insights for innovative design solutions.
- Build your skills in art direction and design, understanding the differences and applications.
- Explore and gain familiarity with industry-standard software, including Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator.
- Learn to incorporate AI tools to enhance and streamline your design process.
- Create portfolio-based projects that showcase your design capabilities.
Course Information
3.00 units
TBD
Notes:
Quarters Offered: Spring, Fall
Equipment/Software: Adobe Creative Cloud for Students. Instructor will provide information regarding software.
Flexible Enrollment: This course is a requirement for the Digital Design and Creative Strategy Professional Certificate but is open to all students, even if you're not enrolled in the Certificate Program.
Academic Calendar: The Academic Calendar shows the open enrollment dates and term start dates for each quarter. Courses do not necessarily start on the first day of the term.
Equipment/Software: Adobe Creative Cloud for Students. Instructor will provide information regarding software.
Flexible Enrollment: This course is a requirement for the Digital Design and Creative Strategy Professional Certificate but is open to all students, even if you're not enrolled in the Certificate Program.
Academic Calendar: The Academic Calendar shows the open enrollment dates and term start dates for each quarter. Courses do not necessarily start on the first day of the term.