CERTIFICATE IN DIGITAL AND GRAPHIC DESIGN
This intermediate-level certificate combines design theory and skills training to provide students with a thorough understanding of digital and graphic design for use in print, motion graphics, and on the Web. The program begins with multidisciplinary core courses that develop a strong foundation in design principles such as space, layout, color, typography, and history. Then, students choose a track in Print/Graphic Design, Motion Graphics, or Web Design and apply their foundation skills in project work and industry-related electives. Finally, the program culminates in a multidisciplinary Portfolio Review course with industry professionals who critique students' work and help them assemble stronger portfolios.
Note: This program is designed for students who have foundation skills in the applicable technologies for their design discipline of interest. Courses are taught interchangeably using Mac and PC operatings systems in order follow industry practices which focus on applications and not operating systems. Prerequisite: Students who do not have a technical foundation are advised to take the Certificate in Digital and Graphic Design Production Technologies.
Upon completion of the program, students have the ability to:
- Solve design problems through brainstorming, visual storytelling, ideation, and conceptual thinking.
- Understand color systems for print, broadcast, and the Web.
- Use typography to create effective communications.
- Develop and strengthen design capabilities with unique style and vision.
- Apply the design process from concept to completion.
- Create a design portfolio for use in a job search.
- Practice presenting design work and a portfolio.
Print/Graphic Design Track
Students learn design theory and skills specific to print media, such as books, magazines, brochures, posters, newspapers, and information graphics. Some highly recommended electives for this track are Publication Design, Typography II, Brand Identity, and Illustrator: Advanced.
Web Design Track
Students learn Web and interactive design theory and skills and apply them to projects with sophisticated user interfaces and a high degree of usability. Some highly recommended electives for this track are E-Commerce Design, Brand Identity, Interface Design for the Web, Game Design, Sound Design: Fundamentals, and Flash: Advanced.
An average grade of B or higher is required along with the successful completion of 8 courses—four core, one industry-track requirement and three electives"—to earn the certificate. Students with intermediate level experience in design may request to substitute the core courses with related courses by presenting a portfolio of work to be judged by faculty.
This certificate has been restructured. Students who began this certificate prior to fall 2007 have four years to complete their certificate according to the requirements in the SCPS bulletin the semester they began. Call an education advisor at (212) 998-7171 for more information.
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