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2014 - 2015 Academic Catalog

Graphic Design

The Graphic Design major is a comprehensive and balanced program that illuminates the basic principles of effective visual communication. Students develop professional skills and a personal aesthetic that form a foundation for a successful design practice. Theoretical and practical studio experience in illustration, motion graphics, photography, typography, and design for the Web and mobile devices are at the core of the major.

Reflective of Lasell's connected learning philosophy, students learn essential business practices, become fluent in the necessary terminology, address a client's needs through conceptual drawings and mock-ups, and bring the project through to a successful solution. Students use the latest and most powerful digital hardware and software. As a capstone experience, each student in the Graphic Design major develops an electronic online portfolio that showcases the strongest examples of work created during the course of the program. and completes a required internship. Graduates receive a Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design.

The following goals and associated learning outcomes delineate what we strive for students to achieve when they complete the major program of study in Graphic Design:

Goal 1: Creative Thinking Skills
Upon completion of the major program of study in Graphic Design, students will be able to

  1. produce multiple creative solutions for any single design challenge, applying a creative process on-demand
  2. effectively employ imagination with refined technique

Goal 2: Strong Critical Thinking and Problem-solving Skills
Upon completion of the major program of study in Graphic Design, students will be able to

  1. critique quality and effectiveness of visual media objects
  2. use learning resources outside the classroom to solve problems and develop skills
  3. craft effective solutions for visual problems

Goal 3: Strong Design and Fine Arts Skills
Upon completion of the major program of study in Graphic Design, students will be able to

  1. demonstrate currency with technical media tools
  2. effectively craft and author visual communications

Goal 4: Visual Articulation and Literacy
Upon completion of the major program of study in Graphic Design, students will be able to

  1. demonstrate their own personal aesthetic
  2. explain the influences of media in society
  3. recognize context and legacy of visual media objects

Goal 5: Effective Verbal Communication Skills
Upon completion of the major program of study in Graphic Design, students will be able to

  1. articulate their thoughts clearly in written form
  2. write in the style demanded of their chosen profession
  3. articulate their thoughts clearly in classroom discussions and professional presentations

Program Fee
Each Graphic Design student is charged a program fee for each semester. This program fee is used to pay for hardware, software, guest speaker honoraria, and miscellaneous materials/supplies that are necessary to maximize student learning.


Course Code Course Title Credits
Core Courses
ARTS101 Studio Drawing I 3
ARTS120 Three-D Design 3
ARTS126 Principles of Design & Color 3
ARTS201 Studio Drawing II 3
ARTS219 Digital Photography 3
GRAP105 Digital Design Essentials 3
GRAP201 Imaging for Graphic Design 3
GRAP203 Lettering 3
GRAP204 Graphic Design I 3
GRAP205 Graphic Design II 3
GRAP207 Web Design & Development 3
GRAP208 Graphic Design History 3
GRAP301 Typography I 3
GRAP302 Typography II 3
GRAP305 Digital Photography II 3
GRAP307 Motion Graphics 3
GRAP308 Interactive Design 3
GRAP309 Graphic Design for the Marketplace 3
GRAP399 Internship Seminar 1
GRAP400 Field Experience 4
GRAP401 Publication Design 3
GRAP403 Senior Portfolio Development 3
GRAP404 Senior Thesis Assignment 4
GRAP406 Senior Practicum Project 4
MATH107 College Geometry 3
Choose 1 from the following:
ARTH103 Art History I 3
ARTH104 Art History II 3

Arts and Sciences Electives: 3-9 credits
This requirement may be fulfilled by any combination of Anthropology, Art History, Biology, Chemistry, Criminal Justice, Economics, English, Environmental Studies, Foreign Language, Geography, History, Mathematics, Music, Philosophy, Physics, Political Science, Psychology, Science, or Sociology courses.
View courses.

Core Curriculum Requirements and remaining Unrestricted Electives: 32 credits

Courses listed below fulfill Knowledge Perspective requirements:
Aesthetics & Creativity
ARTS126 Principles of Design & Color

Minimum credits required for graduation: 120

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

GRAP202 - Adobe InDesign

This course offers an introduction and continues with an in-depth concentration in the most popular software application for digital page layout. Through a series of publication design projects, students advance their ability to use this versatile and powerful computer application while reinforcing basic graphic design skills.

GRAP203 - Lettering

This is an introduction to the art, craft, and history of letterforms. With an emphasis on calligraphy and continuing with digital imaging, students gain a historical perspective of the development of letterforms and how they influence modern communications.

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.

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.

GRAP206 - Adobe Illustrator

This course offers an introduction and continues with an in-depth concentration in the most popular software application for vector-based, digital illustration. Through a series of illustration projects, students advance their ability to use this versatile and powerful computer application while reinforcing basic graphic design skills.

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.

GRAP208 - Graphic Design History

This course introduces students of design to the origins of the discipline. It emphasizes the Modernist period, during which design rapidly evolved as typography, photography and new printing methods were explored by artists of the Bauhaus and other European schools and movements. The course demonstrates how these innovators influence graphic design as we know it today.

GRAP209 - Adobe Photoshop

This course offers an introduction and continues with an in-depth concentration in the most popular software application for pixel-based digital imaging and editing. Through a series of projects, students advance their ability to use this versatile and powerful computer application while reinforcing basic graphic design skills.

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.

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.

GRAP305 - Digital Photography II

This course involves the study of the graphic image and how visual messages are used in a diverse media. This is an advanced photography course with an emphasis on technical methods. Hands-on studio projects give the student skills that contribute to thoughtful and effective communication. Prerequisite: ARTS 219.

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.

GRAP309 - Graphic Design for the Marketplace

This course engages advanced graphic design students with a curriculum derived from a collection of prepared design briefs. With established methods of research, conceptualization, innovation, and art production students are offered "real world" challenges for graphic design solutions. This course emphasizes sound business practices and ethical guidelines for a career in commercial art. Prerequisites: GRAP 205, GRAP 302.

GRAP399 - Internship Seminar

A critical component of a successful Internship experience is finding an appropriate placement. In this seminar students will identify their personalwork style and strengths, will identify a good career match, will create an effective cover letter & resume, will explore effective networking, interviewing, and negotiation skills. This course will help students identify search tools for finding internships. A goal of this course is to secure an internship for the following semester. Must be Junior standing.

GRAP400 - Field Experience

This course provides the student with professional experience through an individually arranged participation of 12-15 hours per week in a work setting. Primary area of responsibility rests with the student in identifying and pursuing his/her areas of interests, in consultation with his/her team of faculty advisors. Each student is monitored during the field experience and must complete a related written project assigned by his/her team of faculty advisors. Evaluation of the field experience is based on student performance as reviewed with the employer, faculty members, and student at the completion of the experience. Junior or Senior standing. Prerequisite: ARTS 399

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

GRAP403 - Senior Portfolio Development

This course prepares design students for effective and personalized presentation of their design work. Students are encouraged to prepare a physical "book" portfolio with interchangeable pages to allow customization of presentations. They are also encouraged to establish their own web presence by building an online portfolio on a Web site with their own URL. Prerequisite: Senior standing.

GRAP404 - Senior Thesis Assignment

Students engage in an individual research and writing practice that challenges them to analyze and articulate their personal philosophy of design. This capstone course also provides students an opportunity to clarify their professional goals based on their interests in graphic design. Prerequisite: Senior standing.

GRAP406 - Senior Practicum Project

The senior practicum provides an opportunity for students in their final semester of the design program to produce a self-directed capstone project that applies the design theory and studio techniques that they have been developing over the last four years. The practicum project is presented in a Senior Show at the end of their final semester. Prerequisite: Senior standing.

ARTS101 - Studio Drawing I

This course introduces students to a variety of drawing tools and media. Drawing from life, line, tonality, illusional space, and perspective are explored. Creativity and individual expression are stressed.

ARTS120 - Three-D Design

This course introduces students to the notion of creating within three-dimensional space. Line, composition, planes, volume, and surfaces are studied from both additive and subtractive perspectives. Students construct various models and/or maquettes. Problem solving and individual expression are emphasized.

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.

ARTS201 - Studio Drawing II

This course offers the experienced drawing student a chance to continue building life drawing, human figure, still lifes and landscape skills. In addition to studio work, students learn what is necessary to advance their knowledge of design by studying the masters. Periodic class discussions help students learn visual analysis and a general approach to the criticism of art. Prerequisite: ARTS 101 or permission of instructor.

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.

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

GRAP203 - Lettering

This is an introduction to the art, craft, and history of letterforms. With an emphasis on calligraphy and continuing with digital imaging, students gain a historical perspective of the development of letterforms and how they influence modern communications.

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.

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.

GRAP208 - Graphic Design History

This course introduces students of design to the origins of the discipline. It emphasizes the Modernist period, during which design rapidly evolved as typography, photography and new printing methods were explored by artists of the Bauhaus and other European schools and movements. The course demonstrates how these innovators influence graphic design as we know it today.

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.

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.

GRAP305 - Digital Photography II

This course involves the study of the graphic image and how visual messages are used in a diverse media. This is an advanced photography course with an emphasis on technical methods. Hands-on studio projects give the student skills that contribute to thoughtful and effective communication. Prerequisite: ARTS 219.

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.

GRAP309 - Graphic Design for the Marketplace

This course engages advanced graphic design students with a curriculum derived from a collection of prepared design briefs. With established methods of research, conceptualization, innovation, and art production students are offered "real world" challenges for graphic design solutions. This course emphasizes sound business practices and ethical guidelines for a career in commercial art. Prerequisites: GRAP 205, GRAP 302.

GRAP399 - Internship Seminar

A critical component of a successful Internship experience is finding an appropriate placement. In this seminar students will identify their personalwork style and strengths, will identify a good career match, will create an effective cover letter & resume, will explore effective networking, interviewing, and negotiation skills. This course will help students identify search tools for finding internships. A goal of this course is to secure an internship for the following semester. Must be Junior standing.

GRAP400 - Field Experience

This course provides the student with professional experience through an individually arranged participation of 12-15 hours per week in a work setting. Primary area of responsibility rests with the student in identifying and pursuing his/her areas of interests, in consultation with his/her team of faculty advisors. Each student is monitored during the field experience and must complete a related written project assigned by his/her team of faculty advisors. Evaluation of the field experience is based on student performance as reviewed with the employer, faculty members, and student at the completion of the experience. Junior or Senior standing. Prerequisite: ARTS 399

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

GRAP403 - Senior Portfolio Development

This course prepares design students for effective and personalized presentation of their design work. Students are encouraged to prepare a physical "book" portfolio with interchangeable pages to allow customization of presentations. They are also encouraged to establish their own web presence by building an online portfolio on a Web site with their own URL. Prerequisite: Senior standing.

GRAP404 - Senior Thesis Assignment

Students engage in an individual research and writing practice that challenges them to analyze and articulate their personal philosophy of design. This capstone course also provides students an opportunity to clarify their professional goals based on their interests in graphic design. Prerequisite: Senior standing.

GRAP406 - Senior Practicum Project

The senior practicum provides an opportunity for students in their final semester of the design program to produce a self-directed capstone project that applies the design theory and studio techniques that they have been developing over the last four years. The practicum project is presented in a Senior Show at the end of their final semester. Prerequisite: Senior standing.

MATH107 - College Geometry

This course is an introduction to the essentials of Euclidean geometry. Topics covered include: reasoning in mathematics, the relationship between algebra and geometry, analytic geometry, proofs and constructive triangles, circles, quadrilaterals, polygons, surfaces and solids and historical notes about famous geometricians. Prerequisite: MATH 106 with a grade of C or better or demonstrated competency through placement testing.

ARTH103 - Art History I

This course presents a survey of artistic styles from the prehistoric period through the art of the early Renaissance. Periods included are Egyptian, Aegean, Greek, Roman and Etruscan art, and the art of the Middle Ages. Films and slides are used in the presentation of works of art from the fields of architecture, sculpture, and painting.

ARTH104 - Art History II

This course presents a study of works of art from the High Renaissance and the Mannerist periods, the Renaissance in the North, the Baroque period, and the Modern Age. Slides and films are used in this presentation of works of art from the fields of architecture, sculpture, and painting.