The Associate of Science Degree in Graphic Design prepares students for entry in graphic design and associated communication design industries and assists students seeking an undergraduate degree at a four-year institution. Courses listed in the degree provide the student with the technical and critical-thinking skills needed to produce and present visual communication solutions. This degree will enable students to build a portfolio of graphic design work in-line with industry standards and expectations including (but not limited to) branding and identity design, publication design, advertising and entertainment design, package design, website and interaction design, and other types of communication design.
Please contact the Student Success Team for this program if you have any questions.Course | Units | Typically Offered |
1st Semester | ||
GDSN 164 - Digital Illustration DesignM | 3.0 | |
GDSN 164 - Digital Illustration Design (3.0 units) Advisory:NART 285; It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts. This introductory course is an introduction to graphic design and uses vector software (like Adobe Illustrator) as the principal digital tool. Topics include the principles and elements of design, typography, color, shape stroke, illustration techniques, page layout design, as well as introductory critical concepts and professional practices employed by graphic designers. This course includes exercises, projects, and portfolio building with an emphasis on professional standards. This course is for students interested in a degree or certificate in graphic design as well as those interested in 2-dimensional (2D) design and layout applications employed as tools by graphic designers. | ||
GDSN 110 - History of Graphic DesignM | 3.0 | |
GDSN 110 - History of Graphic Design (3.0 units) Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts. This course is a survey of historical developments in graphic design from the Industrial Revolution to the Digital Age. Students will analyze the development of graphic design, its origins as a career [and] technical education (CTE) area, and the influences of the political, social, and economic climates of the different historical periods. The course provides a historical framework for analyses of current and future trends in graphic design, and explores various historical art and design movements in order to recognize and evaluate the contexts of fine art, design, and science. | ||
ENGL 101 - College Composition and Research (RHC GE 1b and 8a)GE | 3.5 | |
ENGL 101 - College Composition and Research (3.5 units) Prerequisite:Enrollment requires appropriate placement (based on high school GPA and/or other measures), or eligibility for college composition. This composition course enables students to generate logical, coherent essays that incorporate sources necessary for academic and professional success. Students become proficient in researching, evaluating, and incorporating sources, and in learning critical reading and thinking skills through expository and persuasive reading selections before applying these skills to creating original documented essays. The writing workshop component of the course is designed to assist students with improving and refining their writing and language skills: Students complete writing workshop activities that enhance their ability to compose logical, well-supported arguments that exhibit grammatical fluency and correct citation styles. Students meet with composition instructors through individual or small group conferences that address students’ specific writing concerns. This course is designed for students who wish to fulfill the General Education requirement for Written Communication. | ||
RHC GE 4 - American InstitutionsGE | 3.0 | |
Note: All honors courses have a prerequisite. Select one: | ||
RHC GE 3 - Physical EducationGE | 1.0 | |
Select one: KINA or DANC activity course. | ||
Total Semester Units: | 13.5 | |
2nd Semester | ||
GDSN 162 - Introduction to Web Design: User Experience Design (UX)M | 3.0 | |
GDSN 162 - Introduction to Web Design: User Experience Design (UX) (3.0 units) Advisory:NART 285; It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts. This introductory web design course is a practical introduction for students interested in user experience (UX) and visual interface design, and the challenges they pose for graphic designers. Using web design applications (like Adobe Dreamweaver and Photoshop), students are introduced to the steps involved in creating a basic, functional, and interactive website. Topics include aesthetic design considerations, front-end technology, interaction, UX, user interface (UI) and cascading style sheets (CSS) design, file optimization, and website principles and practices. This course is for students interested in a degree or certificate in graphic design and those interested in web design and interactive design. | ||
GDSN 165 - Branding and Identity DesignM | 3.0 | |
GDSN 165 - Branding and Identity Design (3.0 units) Prerequisite: GDSN 164 This course is an exploration of branding and identity design, a sub-discipline of graphic design. Topics include the research and development of trademarks and logos for clients, the principles and elements of design, typography, color, shape stroke, illustration techniques, and page layout design, as well as intermediate and advanced critical concepts and professional practices employed by graphic designers. This course includes portfolio building with an emphasis on professional standards. This course is for students interested in a degree or certificate in graphic design as well as those interested in 2-dimensional (2D) design and layout applications employed as tools by graphic designers. | ||
ART 124 - Color TheoryM | 3.0 | |
ART 124 - Color Theory (3.0 units) Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts. This course is an introduction to the characteristics of color and color interaction. It is suited for all art majors transferring to a 4-year college or interested in working in the arts as a painter, illustrator, or designer. The course covers the principles, theories, and applications of additive and subtractive color in 2 dimensions. Topics include major historical and contemporary color systems, production of projects in applied color, and the elements of design as they apply to color. | ||
Select one: MATH 150 / FIN 101 (RHC GE 2)GE | 3.0 | |
Notes: While the above course(s) are recommended, students may take any of the following courses to fulfill this requirement: FIN 101, MATH 060, MATH 073, MATH 130/H, MATH 140, MATH 150, MATH 160, MATH 170, MATH 175, MATH 180, MATH 190/H, PSY 190. MATH 150 - Survey of Mathematics (3.0 units) Prerequisite:Enrollment requires appropriate placement (based on high school GPA and/or other measures), or completion of an intermediate algebra course. In this course students will learn to read and understand quantitative information, solve practical problems, and make sound decisions using numbers. Topics include consumer applications, logic, probability, statistics, algebra, and geometry. This course is for students who need a quantitative reasoning course for graduation or transfer. FIN 101 - Introduction to Financial Planning (3.0 units) Advisory:It is advised that students be able to read college-level texts. This course provides an overview of the fundamentals of financial planning, and is designed to provide students with tools needed to achieve their personal financial goals. Students learn to make informed decisions related to spending, saving, borrowing, and investing by applying quantitative reasoning concepts. Course topics include the financial planning process, budgeting, cash flow, debt consolidation, investing, and retirement planning. | ||
RHC GE 7a - Fine ArtsGE | 3.0 | |
Note: All honors courses have a prerequisite. Select one: | ||
Total Semester Units: | 15.0 | |
Summer 1 | ||
RHC GE 3 - Physical EducationGE | 1.0 | |
Select one: KINA or DANC activity course. | ||
RHC GE 7b - HumanitiesGE | 3.0† | |
Notes: Select one: | ||
Total Semester Units: | 4.0† | |
3rd Semester | ||
GDSN 163 - Intermediate Web Design: Interactive DesignM | 3.0 | |
GDSN 163 - Intermediate Web Design: Interactive Design (3.0 units) Prerequisite: GDSN 162 Focusing on usability, this intermediate class offers broader and more advanced instruction related to the "front-end" visual design and aesthetics of interactive media, as well as the technical and design requirements of designing a fully functional website. Using intermediate web design applications (like Adobe Dreamweaver), students are instructed in the techniques needed to maximize the quality of user experience (UX). Students continue to perfect the creation of a fully functional website using multifaceted applications. Topics include interactive design software, front-end aesthetics, technology, interaction, UX, user interface (UI) and cascading style sheets (CSS) design, the principles and elements of digital design and aesthetics, and interactive design business practices. This course is for students interested in a degree or certificate in graphic design and those interested in expanding their knowledge of web design and interactive design. | ||
GDSN 178 - Digital Imaging DesignM | 3.0 | |
GDSN 178 - Digital Imaging Design (3.0 units) Advisory: NART 285; It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts. This introductory graphic design course uses bitmap software as the principal digital tool. Topics include the principles and elements of design, typography, color, photo/raster/bitmapped-based scanning, vector graphic integration, time-based design, image formats, optimization, retouching, adjustments, compositing, blending, color, conceptual, narrative and time-based techniques, technical and creative methods and styles employed by graphic designers, introductory critical concepts, and professional practices. The course includes exercises, projects, and portfolio building, with an emphasis on professional standards. This course is for students interested in obtaining a degree or certificate in graphic design or transfer, and those seeking to pursue a career in graphic design or related professions. | ||
RHC GE 6 - Social and Behavioral ScienceGE | 3.0 | |
Note: All honors courses have a prerequisite. Select one: | ||
RHC GE 5 - Natural Science with LabGE | 4.0 | |
Note: All honors courses have a prerequisite. Select one Natural Science with Lab: | ||
Total Semester Units: | 13.0 | |
4th Semester | ||
GDSN 179 - Advanced Digital Imaging DesignM | 3.0 | |
GDSN 179 - Advanced Digital Imaging Design (3.0 units) Prerequisite: GDSN 178 This course is for students interested in a degree in graphic design and/or those interested in advanced 2-dimensional (2D) design and layout applications employed as tools by graphic designers. This course is an advanced, project-driven exploration of graphic design, and uses 2D design and layout application software (like Adobe Photoshop) as the principal digital tool. Topics include photo montage, compositing, collage, advanced conceptual and narrative techniques, current technical and creative methods and styles employed by graphic designers, advanced critical concepts, and professional practices. The course includes portfolio building, with an emphasis on professional standards. | ||
GDSN 150 - TypographyM | 3.0 | |
GDSN 150 - Typography (3.0 units) Advisory:NART 285; It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts. This course is intended for students interested in the history, theory and practice of typography as it applies to graphic design, advertising, and other areas of design and visual communication. Students learn and practice hand-rendered and mechanical aspects of typography, and how typography attracts, informs, educates, inspires, and creates retaining impressions—as well as how typography modifies human actions and behavior. Through discussions, exercises, and projects, students develop an understanding leading to clearer interpretations of typography and its role in human history, communication, design, and art. Activities include the history and principles of typography, letter structure, typeface selection, fundamentals of typesetting and introductory typographic layout. | ||
GDSN 172 - Publication DesignM | 3.0 | |
GDSN 172 - Publication Design (3.0 units) Advisory:NART,285; It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts. This introductory course is an exploration of publication design, a sub-discipline of graphic design and uses page-layout software (like Adobe InDesign) as the principal digital tool. Topics include the principles and elements of design, page composition, creative use of typography, color, imagery and the grid, and discussion of output and pre-press considerations for print and digital distribution, as well as current methods and styles, critical concepts, and professional practices employed by graphic designers. This course includes portfolio building, with an emphasis on professional standards. | ||
RHC GE 8b - Communication/Analytical ThinkingGE | 3.0† | |
Notes: Select one: | ||
ElectiveEL | 3.0 | |
Select any course that is numbered 40 or above. Please see a counselor to discuss course options. | ||
Total Semester Units: | 15.0† | |
Total Units for Graphic Design AS program | 60.5† | |
AP exams and courses taken outside of Rio Hondo College may fulfill general education and/or major requirements. Please check with a counselor. |
† | Some classes may have higher units |
M | Major course; course may also meet a general education requirement |
GE | General Education course |
EL | Elective Course |
Course | Units | Typically Offered |
1st Semester | ||
GDSN 164 - Digital Illustration DesignM | 3.0 | |
GDSN 164 - Digital Illustration Design (3.0 units) Advisory:NART 285; It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts. This introductory course is an introduction to graphic design and uses vector software (like Adobe Illustrator) as the principal digital tool. Topics include the principles and elements of design, typography, color, shape stroke, illustration techniques, page layout design, as well as introductory critical concepts and professional practices employed by graphic designers. This course includes exercises, projects, and portfolio building with an emphasis on professional standards. This course is for students interested in a degree or certificate in graphic design as well as those interested in 2-dimensional (2D) design and layout applications employed as tools by graphic designers. | ||
GDSN 110 - History of Graphic Design (CSU GE C1)M | 3.0 | |
GDSN 110 - History of Graphic Design (3.0 units) Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts. This course is a survey of historical developments in graphic design from the Industrial Revolution to the Digital Age. Students will analyze the development of graphic design, its origins as a career [and] technical education (CTE) area, and the influences of the political, social, and economic climates of the different historical periods. The course provides a historical framework for analyses of current and future trends in graphic design, and explores various historical art and design movements in order to recognize and evaluate the contexts of fine art, design, and science. | ||
ENGL 101 - College Composition and Research (CSU GE A2)GE | 3.5 | |
ENGL 101 - College Composition and Research (3.5 units) Prerequisite:Enrollment requires appropriate placement (based on high school GPA and/or other measures), or eligibility for college composition. This composition course enables students to generate logical, coherent essays that incorporate sources necessary for academic and professional success. Students become proficient in researching, evaluating, and incorporating sources, and in learning critical reading and thinking skills through expository and persuasive reading selections before applying these skills to creating original documented essays. The writing workshop component of the course is designed to assist students with improving and refining their writing and language skills: Students complete writing workshop activities that enhance their ability to compose logical, well-supported arguments that exhibit grammatical fluency and correct citation styles. Students meet with composition instructors through individual or small group conferences that address students’ specific writing concerns. This course is designed for students who wish to fulfill the General Education requirement for Written Communication. | ||
Select one: POLS 110 / POLS 110H (CSU GE D)GE | 3.0 | |
POLS 110 - Government of the United States (3.0 units) Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts. This course surveys and analyzes the origins, principles, institutions, policies, and politics of U.S. National and California State Governments, including their constitutions. Emphasis is placed on the rights and responsibilities of citizens, and an understanding of the political processes and issues involved in the workings of government. This course fulfills the American Institutions requirement for the Associate Degree. It also is suitable for students wishing to expand their knowledge of local, state and national governments. POLS 110H - Government of the United States Honors (3.0 units) Prerequisite: ENGL 101 This course surveys and analyzes the origins, principles, institutions, policies, and politics of U.S. National and California State Governments, including their constitutions. Emphasis is placed on the rights and responsibilities of citizens, and an understanding of the political processes and issues involved in the workings of government. This course fulfills the American Institutions requirement for the Associate Degree. It also is suitable for students wishing to expand their knowledge of local, state and national governments. This course is intended for students eligible for the Honors Program. | ||
Total Semester Units: | 12.5 | |
2nd Semester | ||
GDSN 162 - Introduction to Web Design: User Experience Design (UX)M | 3.0 | |
GDSN 162 - Introduction to Web Design: User Experience Design (UX) (3.0 units) Advisory:NART 285; It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts. This introductory web design course is a practical introduction for students interested in user experience (UX) and visual interface design, and the challenges they pose for graphic designers. Using web design applications (like Adobe Dreamweaver and Photoshop), students are introduced to the steps involved in creating a basic, functional, and interactive website. Topics include aesthetic design considerations, front-end technology, interaction, UX, user interface (UI) and cascading style sheets (CSS) design, file optimization, and website principles and practices. This course is for students interested in a degree or certificate in graphic design and those interested in web design and interactive design. | ||
GDSN 165 - Branding and Identity DesignM | 3.0 | |
GDSN 165 - Branding and Identity Design (3.0 units) Prerequisite: GDSN 164 This course is an exploration of branding and identity design, a sub-discipline of graphic design. Topics include the research and development of trademarks and logos for clients, the principles and elements of design, typography, color, shape stroke, illustration techniques, and page layout design, as well as intermediate and advanced critical concepts and professional practices employed by graphic designers. This course includes portfolio building with an emphasis on professional standards. This course is for students interested in a degree or certificate in graphic design as well as those interested in 2-dimensional (2D) design and layout applications employed as tools by graphic designers. | ||
ART 124 - Color Theory *M | 3.0 | |
Notes: *Spring only ART 124 - Color Theory (3.0 units) Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts. This course is an introduction to the characteristics of color and color interaction. It is suited for all art majors transferring to a 4-year college or interested in working in the arts as a painter, illustrator, or designer. The course covers the principles, theories, and applications of additive and subtractive color in 2 dimensions. Topics include major historical and contemporary color systems, production of projects in applied color, and the elements of design as they apply to color. | ||
Select one: MATH 150 / FIN 101 (CSU GE B4)GE | 3.0 | |
Notes: While the above course(s) are recommended, students may take any of the following courses to fulfill this requirement: FIN 101, MATH 130/H, MATH 140, MATH 150, MATH 160, MATH 170, MATH 175, MATH 180, MATH 190/H, PSY 190. MATH 150 - Survey of Mathematics (3.0 units) Prerequisite:Enrollment requires appropriate placement (based on high school GPA and/or other measures), or completion of an intermediate algebra course. In this course students will learn to read and understand quantitative information, solve practical problems, and make sound decisions using numbers. Topics include consumer applications, logic, probability, statistics, algebra, and geometry. This course is for students who need a quantitative reasoning course for graduation or transfer. FIN 101 - Introduction to Financial Planning (3.0 units) Advisory:It is advised that students be able to read college-level texts. This course provides an overview of the fundamentals of financial planning, and is designed to provide students with tools needed to achieve their personal financial goals. Students learn to make informed decisions related to spending, saving, borrowing, and investing by applying quantitative reasoning concepts. Course topics include the financial planning process, budgeting, cash flow, debt consolidation, investing, and retirement planning. | ||
Total Semester Units: | 12.0 | |
Summer 1 | ||
CSU GE B1 - Physical SciencesGE | 3.0† | |
Notes: Select one: | ||
CSU GE B3 - Lab ScienceGE | 1.0 | |
Select one if lab has not been completed in CSU B1 or B2. | ||
Total Semester Units: | 4.0† | |
3rd Semester | ||
GDSN 163 - Intermediate Web Design: Interactive DesignM | 3.0 | |
GDSN 163 - Intermediate Web Design: Interactive Design (3.0 units) Prerequisite: GDSN 162 Focusing on usability, this intermediate class offers broader and more advanced instruction related to the "front-end" visual design and aesthetics of interactive media, as well as the technical and design requirements of designing a fully functional website. Using intermediate web design applications (like Adobe Dreamweaver), students are instructed in the techniques needed to maximize the quality of user experience (UX). Students continue to perfect the creation of a fully functional website using multifaceted applications. Topics include interactive design software, front-end aesthetics, technology, interaction, UX, user interface (UI) and cascading style sheets (CSS) design, the principles and elements of digital design and aesthetics, and interactive design business practices. This course is for students interested in a degree or certificate in graphic design and those interested in expanding their knowledge of web design and interactive design. | ||
GDSN 178 - Digital Imaging DesignM | 3.0 | |
GDSN 178 - Digital Imaging Design (3.0 units) Advisory: NART 285; It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts. This introductory graphic design course uses bitmap software as the principal digital tool. Topics include the principles and elements of design, typography, color, photo/raster/bitmapped-based scanning, vector graphic integration, time-based design, image formats, optimization, retouching, adjustments, compositing, blending, color, conceptual, narrative and time-based techniques, technical and creative methods and styles employed by graphic designers, introductory critical concepts, and professional practices. The course includes exercises, projects, and portfolio building, with an emphasis on professional standards. This course is for students interested in obtaining a degree or certificate in graphic design or transfer, and those seeking to pursue a career in graphic design or related professions. | ||
US HISTORY (CSU GE D)GE | 3.0 | |
Note: All honors courses have a prerequisite. All CSU campuses have a graduation requirement in American Institutions. Students may choose one of the following US History courses to partially fulfill this requirement: HIST 143, 143H, 144, 144H, 156, 157, 158, 159, 159H, 170. | ||
CSU GE A3 - Critical ThinkingGE | 3.0† | |
Notes: Select one: | ||
Total Semester Units: | 12.0† | |
4th Semester | ||
GDSN 179 - Advanced Digital Imaging DesignM | 3.0 | |
GDSN 179 - Advanced Digital Imaging Design (3.0 units) Prerequisite: GDSN 178 This course is for students interested in a degree in graphic design and/or those interested in advanced 2-dimensional (2D) design and layout applications employed as tools by graphic designers. This course is an advanced, project-driven exploration of graphic design, and uses 2D design and layout application software (like Adobe Photoshop) as the principal digital tool. Topics include photo montage, compositing, collage, advanced conceptual and narrative techniques, current technical and creative methods and styles employed by graphic designers, advanced critical concepts, and professional practices. The course includes portfolio building, with an emphasis on professional standards. | ||
GDSN 150 - TypographyM | 3.0 | |
GDSN 150 - Typography (3.0 units) Advisory:NART 285; It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts. This course is intended for students interested in the history, theory and practice of typography as it applies to graphic design, advertising, and other areas of design and visual communication. Students learn and practice hand-rendered and mechanical aspects of typography, and how typography attracts, informs, educates, inspires, and creates retaining impressions—as well as how typography modifies human actions and behavior. Through discussions, exercises, and projects, students develop an understanding leading to clearer interpretations of typography and its role in human history, communication, design, and art. Activities include the history and principles of typography, letter structure, typeface selection, fundamentals of typesetting and introductory typographic layout. | ||
GDSN 172 - Publication DesignM | 3.0 | |
GDSN 172 - Publication Design (3.0 units) Advisory:NART,285; It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts. This introductory course is an exploration of publication design, a sub-discipline of graphic design and uses page-layout software (like Adobe InDesign) as the principal digital tool. Topics include the principles and elements of design, page composition, creative use of typography, color, imagery and the grid, and discussion of output and pre-press considerations for print and digital distribution, as well as current methods and styles, critical concepts, and professional practices employed by graphic designers. This course includes portfolio building, with an emphasis on professional standards. | ||
CSU GE A1 - Oral CommunicationGE | 3.0 | |
Note: All honors courses have a prerequisite. Select one: SPCH 100, 101, 101H, 120, 140 | ||
Total Semester Units: | 12.0 | |
Summer 2 | ||
CSU GE F - Ethnic StudiesGE | 3.0 | |
Notes: Select one: | ||
Total Semester Units: | 3.0 | |
5th Semester | ||
CSU GE C1 or C2 - Arts or HumanitiesGE | 3.0† | |
Notes: Arts Humanities | ||
CSU GE E - Lifelong Learning/Self DevelopmentGE | 3.0 | |
Select one: | ||
CSU GE B2 - Biological SciencesGE | 3.0† | |
Notes: Select one: | ||
CSU GE C2 - HumanitiesGE | 3.0† | |
Notes: Select one: | ||
Total Semester Units: | 12.0† | |
Total Units for Graphic Design AS program (Transfer to CSU) | 67.5† | |
AP exams and courses taken outside of Rio Hondo College may fulfill general education and/or major requirements. Please check with a counselor. |
† | Some classes may have higher units |
M | Major course; course may also meet a general education requirement |
GE | General Education course |
EL | Elective Course |
Course | Units | Typically Offered |
1st Semester | ||
GDSN 164 - Digital Illustration DesignM | 3.0 | |
GDSN 164 - Digital Illustration Design (3.0 units) Advisory:NART 285; It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts. This introductory course is an introduction to graphic design and uses vector software (like Adobe Illustrator) as the principal digital tool. Topics include the principles and elements of design, typography, color, shape stroke, illustration techniques, page layout design, as well as introductory critical concepts and professional practices employed by graphic designers. This course includes exercises, projects, and portfolio building with an emphasis on professional standards. This course is for students interested in a degree or certificate in graphic design as well as those interested in 2-dimensional (2D) design and layout applications employed as tools by graphic designers. | ||
GDSN 110 - History of Graphic Design (IGETC 3A)M | 3.0 | |
GDSN 110 - History of Graphic Design (3.0 units) Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts. This course is a survey of historical developments in graphic design from the Industrial Revolution to the Digital Age. Students will analyze the development of graphic design, its origins as a career [and] technical education (CTE) area, and the influences of the political, social, and economic climates of the different historical periods. The course provides a historical framework for analyses of current and future trends in graphic design, and explores various historical art and design movements in order to recognize and evaluate the contexts of fine art, design, and science. | ||
ENGL 101 - College Composition and Research (IGETC 1A)GE | 3.5 | |
ENGL 101 - College Composition and Research (3.5 units) Prerequisite:Enrollment requires appropriate placement (based on high school GPA and/or other measures), or eligibility for college composition. This composition course enables students to generate logical, coherent essays that incorporate sources necessary for academic and professional success. Students become proficient in researching, evaluating, and incorporating sources, and in learning critical reading and thinking skills through expository and persuasive reading selections before applying these skills to creating original documented essays. The writing workshop component of the course is designed to assist students with improving and refining their writing and language skills: Students complete writing workshop activities that enhance their ability to compose logical, well-supported arguments that exhibit grammatical fluency and correct citation styles. Students meet with composition instructors through individual or small group conferences that address students’ specific writing concerns. This course is designed for students who wish to fulfill the General Education requirement for Written Communication. | ||
Select one: POLS 110 / POLS 110H (IGETC 4)GE | 3.0 | |
POLS 110 - Government of the United States (3.0 units) Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts. This course surveys and analyzes the origins, principles, institutions, policies, and politics of U.S. National and California State Governments, including their constitutions. Emphasis is placed on the rights and responsibilities of citizens, and an understanding of the political processes and issues involved in the workings of government. This course fulfills the American Institutions requirement for the Associate Degree. It also is suitable for students wishing to expand their knowledge of local, state and national governments. POLS 110H - Government of the United States Honors (3.0 units) Prerequisite: ENGL 101 This course surveys and analyzes the origins, principles, institutions, policies, and politics of U.S. National and California State Governments, including their constitutions. Emphasis is placed on the rights and responsibilities of citizens, and an understanding of the political processes and issues involved in the workings of government. This course fulfills the American Institutions requirement for the Associate Degree. It also is suitable for students wishing to expand their knowledge of local, state and national governments. This course is intended for students eligible for the Honors Program. | ||
Total Semester Units: | 12.5 | |
2nd Semester | ||
GDSN 162 - Introduction to Web Design: User Experience Design (UX)M | 3.0 | |
GDSN 162 - Introduction to Web Design: User Experience Design (UX) (3.0 units) Advisory:NART 285; It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts. This introductory web design course is a practical introduction for students interested in user experience (UX) and visual interface design, and the challenges they pose for graphic designers. Using web design applications (like Adobe Dreamweaver and Photoshop), students are introduced to the steps involved in creating a basic, functional, and interactive website. Topics include aesthetic design considerations, front-end technology, interaction, UX, user interface (UI) and cascading style sheets (CSS) design, file optimization, and website principles and practices. This course is for students interested in a degree or certificate in graphic design and those interested in web design and interactive design. | ||
GDSN 165 - Branding and Identity DesignM | 3.0 | |
GDSN 165 - Branding and Identity Design (3.0 units) Prerequisite: GDSN 164 This course is an exploration of branding and identity design, a sub-discipline of graphic design. Topics include the research and development of trademarks and logos for clients, the principles and elements of design, typography, color, shape stroke, illustration techniques, and page layout design, as well as intermediate and advanced critical concepts and professional practices employed by graphic designers. This course includes portfolio building with an emphasis on professional standards. This course is for students interested in a degree or certificate in graphic design as well as those interested in 2-dimensional (2D) design and layout applications employed as tools by graphic designers. | ||
ART 124 - Color Theory *M | 3.0 | |
Notes: *Spring Only ART 124 - Color Theory (3.0 units) Advisory:It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts. This course is an introduction to the characteristics of color and color interaction. It is suited for all art majors transferring to a 4-year college or interested in working in the arts as a painter, illustrator, or designer. The course covers the principles, theories, and applications of additive and subtractive color in 2 dimensions. Topics include major historical and contemporary color systems, production of projects in applied color, and the elements of design as they apply to color. | ||
MATH 150 - Survey of Mathematics (IGETC 2A)GE | 3.0 | |
Notes: While the above course(s) are recommended, students may take any of the following courses to fulfill this requirement: MATH 130/H, MATH 150, MATH 160, MATH 170, MATH 180, MATH190/H, PSY 190. MATH 150 - Survey of Mathematics (3.0 units) Prerequisite:Enrollment requires appropriate placement (based on high school GPA and/or other measures), or completion of an intermediate algebra course. In this course students will learn to read and understand quantitative information, solve practical problems, and make sound decisions using numbers. Topics include consumer applications, logic, probability, statistics, algebra, and geometry. This course is for students who need a quantitative reasoning course for graduation or transfer. | ||
Total Semester Units: | 12.0 | |
Summer 1 | ||
IGETC 5A - Physical SciencesGE | 3.0† | |
Notes: Select one: | ||
IGETC 5C - Lab ScienceGE | 1.0 | |
Select one if lab has not been completed in IGETC 5A or 5B. | ||
Total Semester Units: | 4.0† | |
3rd Semester | ||
GDSN 163 - Intermediate Web Design: Interactive DesignM | 3.0 | |
GDSN 163 - Intermediate Web Design: Interactive Design (3.0 units) Prerequisite: GDSN 162 Focusing on usability, this intermediate class offers broader and more advanced instruction related to the "front-end" visual design and aesthetics of interactive media, as well as the technical and design requirements of designing a fully functional website. Using intermediate web design applications (like Adobe Dreamweaver), students are instructed in the techniques needed to maximize the quality of user experience (UX). Students continue to perfect the creation of a fully functional website using multifaceted applications. Topics include interactive design software, front-end aesthetics, technology, interaction, UX, user interface (UI) and cascading style sheets (CSS) design, the principles and elements of digital design and aesthetics, and interactive design business practices. This course is for students interested in a degree or certificate in graphic design and those interested in expanding their knowledge of web design and interactive design. | ||
GDSN 178 - Digital Imaging DesignM | 3.0 | |
GDSN 178 - Digital Imaging Design (3.0 units) Advisory: NART 285; It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts. This introductory graphic design course uses bitmap software as the principal digital tool. Topics include the principles and elements of design, typography, color, photo/raster/bitmapped-based scanning, vector graphic integration, time-based design, image formats, optimization, retouching, adjustments, compositing, blending, color, conceptual, narrative and time-based techniques, technical and creative methods and styles employed by graphic designers, introductory critical concepts, and professional practices. The course includes exercises, projects, and portfolio building, with an emphasis on professional standards. This course is for students interested in obtaining a degree or certificate in graphic design or transfer, and those seeking to pursue a career in graphic design or related professions. | ||
IGETC 1B - Critical Thinking and CompositionGE | 3.0† | |
Notes: Select one: | ||
IGETC 3B - HumanitiesGE | 3.0† | |
Notes: Select one: | ||
Total Semester Units: | 12.0† | |
4th Semester | ||
GDSN 179 - Advanced Digital Imaging DesignM | 3.0 | |
GDSN 179 - Advanced Digital Imaging Design (3.0 units) Prerequisite: GDSN 178 This course is for students interested in a degree in graphic design and/or those interested in advanced 2-dimensional (2D) design and layout applications employed as tools by graphic designers. This course is an advanced, project-driven exploration of graphic design, and uses 2D design and layout application software (like Adobe Photoshop) as the principal digital tool. Topics include photo montage, compositing, collage, advanced conceptual and narrative techniques, current technical and creative methods and styles employed by graphic designers, advanced critical concepts, and professional practices. The course includes portfolio building, with an emphasis on professional standards. | ||
GDSN 150 - TypographyM | 3.0 | |
GDSN 150 - Typography (3.0 units) Advisory:NART 285; It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts. This course is intended for students interested in the history, theory and practice of typography as it applies to graphic design, advertising, and other areas of design and visual communication. Students learn and practice hand-rendered and mechanical aspects of typography, and how typography attracts, informs, educates, inspires, and creates retaining impressions—as well as how typography modifies human actions and behavior. Through discussions, exercises, and projects, students develop an understanding leading to clearer interpretations of typography and its role in human history, communication, design, and art. Activities include the history and principles of typography, letter structure, typeface selection, fundamentals of typesetting and introductory typographic layout. | ||
GDSN 172 - Publication DesignM | 3.0 | |
GDSN 172 - Publication Design (3.0 units) Advisory:NART,285; It is advised that students be able to engage in written composition at a college level and read college-level texts. This introductory course is an exploration of publication design, a sub-discipline of graphic design and uses page-layout software (like Adobe InDesign) as the principal digital tool. Topics include the principles and elements of design, page composition, creative use of typography, color, imagery and the grid, and discussion of output and pre-press considerations for print and digital distribution, as well as current methods and styles, critical concepts, and professional practices employed by graphic designers. This course includes portfolio building, with an emphasis on professional standards. | ||
IGETC 7 - Ethnic StudiesGE | 3.0 | |
Notes: Select one: | ||
Total Semester Units: | 12.0 | |
Summer 2 | ||
IGETC 6 - Foreign Language (UC ONLY)GE | 4.5 | |
Notes: Proficiency equivalent to two years of high school study in the same language or select one: | ||
Total Semester Units: | 4.5 | |
5th Semester | ||
IGETC 3A or 3B - Arts or HumanitiesGE | 3.0† | |
Notes: Arts Humanities | ||
IGETC 4 - Social and Behavioral SciencesGE | 3.0 | |
Notes: Select one: | ||
IGETC 5B - Biological SciencesGE | 3.0† | |
Notes: Select one: | ||
IGETC 1C - Oral Communication (CSU Only)GE | 3.0 | |
Note: All honors courses have a prerequisite. Select one: | ||
Total Semester Units: | 12.0† | |
Total Units for Graphic Design AS program (Transfer to UC/CSU) | 69.0† | |
AP exams and courses taken outside of Rio Hondo College may fulfill general education and/or major requirements. Please check with a counselor. |
† | Some classes may have higher units |
M | Major course; course may also meet a general education requirement |
GE | General Education course |
EL | Elective Course |
Click or tap here to open the program's advising sheet. |
When completing a graphic design project, students will be able to demonstrate fluency in the visual vocabulary and technical skills relevant to graphic design.
When assigned a graphic design project, students will demonstrate an understanding of the design process through research, ideation, development, and presentation of graphic design.
When considering the context of a graphic design solution, students will understand the cultural, social, and economic environment in which their ideas, products, and strategic solutions apply.
When evaluating graphic design, students will be able to demonstrate through critiques, discussions, and coursework the principles and elements of design.
When creating a portfolio of graphic design work, students will apply professional awareness, and understand the physical preparation needed to enter the graphic design workspace.
Rio Hondo College, serving the communities of El Monte, Pico Rivera, Santa Fe Springs, South El Monte, and Whittier for over 50 years.
Rio Hondo College
3600 Workman Mill Road
Whittier, CA 90601
Phone: (562) 692-0921
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