Graphic & Animation Design Courses
GAND100. First-Yr Portfolio Assessment
Assessment of a portfolio of the first-year student’s work created in the student’s first-year Graphic and Animation Design (GAND) courses, and the student’s presentation of said portfolio. Final grading is pass/no pass. Zero credit.
GAND101. Visual Prblm Solving Design
Explores the foundations and principles of problem solving for visual communication designers. Various approaches are presented including techniques of problem definition, idea generation, visual research, brainstorming, mind mapping and interviewing strategies. Co-requisite: GAND 102. 1.5 credits.
GAND102. Drawing for Design
This course gives students concrete drawing skills that assist in idea development and communicating and informing views of form, shape, and scale. Sketching methods, drawing in perspective, establishing point of view, establishing light source, and conveying proper proportion also will be explored. Co-requisite: GAND 101. 1.5 credits.
GAND103. Handcraft & Color for Design
Focuses on the development of the necessary non-computer skills used in making graphic design. Topics covered include making comprehensives, prototypes, paper engineering and material selection. Additionally, the class covers traditional methods of working with color, such as gouache and color-aid paper, and examines different color models in order to teach the principles of color theory. 3 credits.
GAND104. Digital Craft and Color
This course focuses on the development of the necessary computer skills used in making graphic design. Topics covered include introduction to the basic design software, proper document setup for print production, and file formats. Additionally, the class covers digital methodologies such as color, color spaces, how to vector, and creation of press-ready Portable Document Files (PDFs). 3 credits.
GAND105. Res Critique & Pres Design
This class will apply the critical skills learned in “Visual Problem Solving” and “Drawing for Design” to generate effective processes for research, critique, and presentation related to visual communication. Research topics covered include the gathering, analyzing, unpacking, and effective use of information. Critique topics covered include the mechanics of a successful critique, understanding the value of constructive criticism, and generation of alternative ideas. Presentation topics include how to successfully present and defend a design solution persuasively, ways to educate clients about graphic design, and the fundamentals of business etiquette. Existing case studies will be examined for the ways research and analysis were successfully applied. 3 credits.
GAND110. GAND First-Year Seminar
This course is designed to introduce first-year Graphic and Animation Design students to the GAND program, its curriculum and annual assessments, Longwood resources, and how to have a successful collegiate career. 1 credit.
GAND200. Second-yr Portfolio Assessment
Assessment of a portfolio of the first-year student’s work created in the student’s second-year Graphic and Animation Design (DSAM) courses, and the student’s presentation of said portfolio. Final grading is pass/no pass. Prerequisite: GAND 100. Zero credit.
GAND202. Action Analysis I
A study of the fundamentals of human and animal motion through pose, proportion, balance and weight within expressive gesture drawing. Through these techniques students will explore issues within traditional and digital animation and how to enhance the fluidity of movement throughout their work. 3 credits.
GAND204. Surface Space and Time I
This class addresses the theoretical constructs of (surface) two-, (space) three-, and (time) four-dimensional design. Topics include basic Gestalt theory, as well as the language, grammar, and syntax of design. Graphic design works representing the three design spaces will be de-constructed and analyzed in preparation for their application in making graphic design projects in “Surface, Space, Time II”. 3 credits.
GAND205. Surface Space and Time II
This class addresses the application of the theoretical constructs of (surface) two-, (space) three-, and (time) four-dimensional design. Class builds on and employs the theoretical learning from “Surface, Space, and Time I” as students create a single project and design it in each of the three design spaces. Concepts and skills gained in previous graphic design courses are utilized. Prerequisite: GAND 100. 3 credits.
GAND210. Animation and Simulation I
Introduction to various forms of animation and simulation design theory and practice. Students will explore traditional and digital animation formats including flip books, Claymation, stop-motion, rotoscoping, and Flash. In addition, students learn the fundamentals of animation and simulation design, narrative, sequencing, and storyboarding. Prerequisite: GAND 100. 3 credits.
GAND212. Narrative Sqncing & Storyboard
This course focuses on the basics of storyboarding and narrative structure. Students will learn how to visually express sequences of images and clearly communicate ideas and actions to the audience. 3 credits.
GAND221. Graphic Design & Production I
Introduction to the elements, and vocabulary of graphic design and the technical production of printed and electronic visual materials. Topics include identifying audience, appropriateness, purpose, context and graphic voice. Students address formal and conceptual issues related to graphic design through projects confronting format, image and text, story and sequence. Technical aspects of print and digital production will be introduced and explored. Prerequisite: GAND 100. 3 credits.
GAND226. Typography I
Communication problem solving through the language of visual media. The fundamentals of typography and type design are explored in experimental and practical projects. Prerequisite: GAND 100. 3 credits.
GAND232. Charctr Dsgn & Anmation Layout
This course focuses on the exploration of different aspects for creating characters, props, and settings for animation. Students will learn to incorporate personality into their characters. Prerequisite: GAND 202. 3 credits.
GAND246. Design Lab 1
Practical experience for design students in an in-house design studio environment. Students work with a graphic design professor on both client-based assignments and undergraduate research projects. Permission of Instructor. 1-3 credits.
GAND260. Motion Design I
The fundamentals of motion design are covered, including theories of motion design, idea generation, movement, transition, sequencing, pacing, time, rhythm, and editing. Pre-requisites: GAND 100. 3 Credits.
GAND280. Character Animation
A more in-depth study of motion analysis focusing on structure and form. Students will build upon experiences learned from GAND 202 through a variety of advanced exercises. Prerequisites: GAND 202. 3 credits.
GAND295. Special Topics
Selected topics in design. The topics may vary from semester to semester. Descriptions are available from academic advisors. May be repeated for credit when topics change. 1-3 credits.
GAND300. Third-Yr Portfolio Assessment
Assessment of the third-year student’s senior project proposal, a portfolio of the student’s work created in the student’s third year concentration courses, and the student’s presentation of said portfolio. Final grading is pass/no pass. Prerequisite: GAND 200. Zero credit.
GAND301. History of Graphic Design
Overview of the history of graphic design and its relationship to American and world cultures. Key works of graphic design will be investigated and discussed, along with less canonical, yet important works. 3 credits.
GAND310. Animation and Simulation II
Continued exploration of animation and simulation techniques that extend the student’s understanding of movement, time, and kinetic states. Through more advanced projects, students will be able to execute longer animation sequences which include experimentation, sequence, narrative, storytelling and creative expression. Sound integration and editing will be introduced. Prerequisite: GAND 200. 3 credits.
GAND311. Animation History
An exploration of the development of animation within a historical context. The influences of society and human events, advances in technology, and major stylistic trends are discussed in terms of their impact on animation. 3 credits.
GAND312. Advanced Storyboards
This course will help students to increase their knowledge of storyboarding and apply advanced techniques for advertising, animation, and film. Students work to become visual storytellers through the use of camera angles, perspective, and lighting. Emphasis will be placed on story structure, process evaluation, revision, and ability to meet deadlines. Prerequisites: GAND 212. 3 credits.
GAND325. Introduction to 3D Modeling
Emphasis is on technical proficiency using industry standard software. Students will learn to create objects, surfaces, shading, textures, and cameras in the rendering of 3D and 4D formats. Prerequisite: GAND 200. 3 credits.
GAND326. Typography II
A further exploration of the use of letterforms and type in graphic and visual communication design. Emphasis is on building knowledge and understanding of type as a way of communicating meaning through content and design. Exploration of experimental letterforms and type arrangements, three dimensional typography and type for environments and exhibitions. Creative and expressive use of type will be encouraged. Prerequisite: GAND 100. 3 credits.
GAND330. Illustration & Digital Imaging
An introduction to the history and techniques of conventional and digital illustration and digital imaging. This course focuses on the role of illustration and its value in the creation of editorial images in advertising and graphic design. In addition, students will utilize image editing software to create and enhance digital images for use as illustrations, and will gain a critical understanding of image preparation and editing possibilities for use in print and digital formats. Prerequisite: GAND 100. 3 credits.
GAND345. Design Lab 2
Practical experience for design students in an in-house design studio environment. Students work with a graphic design professor on both client-based assignments and undergraduate research projects. Students will build upon experience learned from GAND 246 through additional client interaction, assignment to additional complex design projects, and promotion to responsible management of projects. 1-3 credits. Permission of instructor.
GAND346. Design Lab 3
Practical experience for design students in an in-house design studio environment. Students work with a graphic design professor on both client-based assignments and undergraduate research projects. Students will build upon experience learned from GAND 246 and GAND 345 through additional client interaction, assignment to additional complex design projects, and promotion to responsible management of projects. 1-3 credits. Permission of instructor.
GAND350. Senior Project Mid-Assessment
Assessment of both the fourth-year student’s senior project at the mid-way point and the student’s presentation of said senior project. Final grading is pass/no pass. Prerequisite: GAND 300. Zero credit.
GAND360. Motion Design II
This course covers theoretical and practical instruction in intermediate motion design. Students build on existing story-telling, animation, and design skills to create dynamic motion graphics and kinetic typography. Pre-requisite: GAND 200. 3 credits.
GAND390. Directed or Independent Proj
This course is a third-year-level study of a particular theme or topic in either Graphic or Animation Design through readings, research and analysis. Prerequisite: approval of the chair of the department. 1-3 credits.
GAND395. Special Topics
Selected topics in design. The topics may vary from semester to semester. Descriptions are available from academic advisors. May be repeated for credit when topics change. 1-3 credits.
GAND400. Senior Project Final Assessmnt
Assessment of both the fourth-year student’s completed senior project and the student’s presentation of said senior project. Final grading is pass/no pass. Prerequisite: GAND 350. Zero credit.
GAND410. Intermediate 3D Modeling
A continuing exploration of the technical and artistic principles relating to 3D modeling. Projects will cover such topics as character modeling, rigging and skinning, shading, and lighting. Prerequisite: GAND 325. 3 credits.
GAND421. Portfolio
Continued concentrated study and exploration of graphic design or animation (depending on the student's area of concentration), resulting in the development and execution of a professional-level portfolio. Students will execute solutions to problems and themes developed in conjunction with the instructor, while covering topics related to job search and employment opportunities. Prerequisite: GAND 200. 3 credits.
GAND422. Senior Thesis Research & Devel
Students will identify issues of current concern that they would like to address through the media of Graphic and Animation Design. Using an established design process, each student will identify need, audience, competition and expected outcomes and begin implementation of an individual capstone Senior Thesis Research Project. The Senior Thesis Research Project is a year-long independent project, and it is a graduation requirement for all GAND students. Prerequisite: GAND 200. 3 credits.
GAND425. Interactive and Web Design
Graphic Design for the Web and Multimedia. Introduction to the elements of website design. Emphasis is on technical proficiency, creative communication and creative self-expression. Using industry standard software, students will learn to design, code and implement a website. 3 credits Prerequisites: GAND 200.
GAND445. Design Lab 4
Practical experience for design students in an in-house design studio environment. Students work with a graphic design professor on both client-based assignments and undergraduate research projects. Students will build upon experience learned from GAND 246, GAND 345, and GAND 346 through additional client interaction, assignment to additional complex design projects, and promotion to responsible management of projects. 1-3 credits. Permission of instructor.
GAND462. Senior Professional Seminar
Analysis and critique of each student’s completed senior project. Students will evaluate the success of their senior projects relative to professionalism, current design critique, and theory, appropriateness of the subject, and future life if the project. Schedule, budget, working methods, research and problem solving results will also be evaluated. Seniors will write a detailed case studies of their senior projects and present them to the rising seniors. Prerequisite: GAND 350. 3 credits.
GAND490. Directed or Independent Proj.
This course is an advanced study of a particular theme or topic in either Graphic or Animation Design through readings, research and analysis. Prerequisite: approval of the chair of the department. 1-3 credits.
GAND495. Special Topics
Selected topics in design. The topics may vary from semester to semester. Descriptions are available from academic advisors. May be repeated for credit when topics change. 1-3 credits.