DEA 4050

Design Portfolio and Communication

Course Description

Course information provided by the 2025-2026 Catalog.

This course is designed for students who want to learn the basic principles of visual communication and how to apply them in concert with design methodologies in order to solve communication and design problems. Visual communication can clarify, distill and translate complex designs, data and ideas. The class introduces principles of graphic design and visual communications using a range of representation techniques. It explores ways to communicate ideas digitally through text, image and video. The focus will be on the applications in Adobe Creative Cloud, including Illustrator, InDesign, Photoshop and AfterEffects.In addition, the course will assist and mentor students in assembling a comprehensive portfolio of their academic work. Students will learn graphic techniques, as well as how to organize and layout their projects in both book and digital formats. The purpose of the portfolio is to showcase each student's best technical, creative, and analytical skills. The end product will be a customized template that can then be supplemented with new projects as students continue to develop professionally.

Enrollment Information REF-F25 Enrollment priority given to: DEA undergraduate majors who have completed their 3000-level CORE courses. DEA minors and transfers will be given enrollment consideration based on course caps and/or permission of instructor.

Distribution Requirements (D-HE, LAD-HE)

Last 3 terms offered 2024FA, 2023FA, 2022FA

Learning Outcomes REF-FA25

• Read, understand and communicate in the language of graphic design.
• Use design technology such as Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign.
• To develop systems of creative thinking that will aid in solving visual problems.
• Create a portfolio with excellent craftsmanship and clear communication.
• Ability to identify/create opportunity for professional practice.

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