Skip top navigation Skip to main content
Lasell University
Lasell University

2014 - 2015 Academic Catalog

Graphic Design Minor

The Graphic Design Minor consists of six courses.

Course Code Course Title Credits
Core Courses
ARTS126 Principles of Design & Color 3
GRAP105 Digital Design Essentials 3
GRAP201 Imaging for Graphic Design 3
GRAP204 Graphic Design I 3
GRAP301 Typography I 3
Choose 1 from the following:
ARTS219 Digital Photography 3
GRAP205 Graphic Design II 3
GRAP207 Web Design & Development 3
GRAP302 Typography II 3
GRAP307 Motion Graphics 3
GRAP308 Interactive Design 3
GRAP401 Publication Design 3

Credit Requirements for minor: 18 credits

ARTS126 - Principles of Design & Color

This course is an introduction to the theories and concepts of design and color with an emphasis on developing an awareness and sensitivity to art as an integral part of one’s life and as a way to complement one’s aesthetic needs. This is a lecture/discussion/critique course with visual material, critical essays, individual expression, and museum/gallery trips. NOTE: First year Graphic Design majors should seek out the majors-only section when enrollling.

GRAP105 - Digital Design Essentials

This course offers an introduction to three of the most important software applications in the Adobe Creative Suite for a student who is interested in Graphic Design: Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign. Students learn image generation and editing in both pixel-based and vector-based environments as well as digital page composition for print publishing. This is a project-based course that initiates and improves students' skill set for the implementation of computer graphics.

GRAP201 - Imaging for Graphic Design

This illustration course is designed to develops students' compositional and image development skills for the field of Graphic Design. Using a combination of traditional and digital methods of imaging, students expand their visual vocabulary for successful graphic communications. Prerequisite: GRAP105

GRAP204 - Graphic Design I

This is an introduction to the theoretical and practical aspects of graphic design, with an emphasis on developing a working literal and visual vocabulary. Students are challenged with conceptual design exercises that promote the essential values of good research, process, and presentation practices. Prerequisite: GRAP 201.

GRAP301 - Typography I

This course surveys the application of expressive letterforms since the invention of the printing press. With a historical overview that illuminates the terminology used by professional designers, students are encouraged to explore their own means of typographic expression. The fundamentals of structure, spacing, and rhythm are emphasized as they influence form and function. Prerequisites: GRAP 105.

ARTS219 - Digital Photography

This course provides an introduction to the basic concepts of digital imaging as applied to photography. Students combine traditional photographic methods with the latest digital techniques, using image manipulation software, scanning equipment and other computer-based tools. Students are responsible for providing their own digital camera.

GRAP205 - Graphic Design II

This course builds on the foundational principles that are introduced in Graphic Design I. Students strengthen their design skills through a series of design briefs in the areas of print and electronic media. Reflective writings and research assignments contribute to improved critical thinking and writing skills. Prerequisite: GRAP 204.

GRAP207 - Web Design & Development

This course introduces the student to the most current coding languages that are integral to successful Web site development. It also introduces the student to authoring software, such as Adobe Dreamweaver, that assists with the application of these coding languages. Other topics which add to this comprehensive course are: the history of the Internet and World Wide Web Consortium, the power of CSS, and the design and layout principles that contribute to successful Web site development from technical, interactive, and aesthetic viewpoints.

GRAP302 - Typography II

In this course, students expand their design practice in the application of typography to a variety of forms and contexts. This is a process-oriented course focused on the advancement of a personal "typographic voice." Students learn to structure informational hierarchies and how to sequence typographic materials across multiple pages. Issues of personal interpretation and legibility are emphasized. Prerequisite: GRAP 301.

GRAP307 - Motion Graphics

In this course, students develop conceptual and visual problem-solving skills as they relate to interactive design, motion studies, and time based art. Through demonstrations, studio sessions, and critiques students create portfolio quality animation, interactive, and motion study projects.

GRAP308 - Interactive Design

This course offers a deeper exploration of interactive design and authoring, building upon skills and strategies acquired in basic Web and Flash classes. Advanced animation and interactivity for the Web, desktop, and mobile devices are emphasized as students learn Actionscript 3.0, HTML5 and CSS3.

GRAP401 - Publication Design

This course involves graphic design students in the theoretical and practical processes of successful publication design through research, conceptual explorations, studio practice, and presentations. This course offers experience in the design of traditional and electronic publications in order to prepare students for a career in graphic design. Prerequisite: GRAP 302