Multimedia and Web Design

Outcomes

Multimedia and Web Design — A.A.S. Degree

Fall Semester – First Year

Course# Course Title Credits
Introduction to Visual Communications 2

This beginning drawing course covers drawing techniques for drawing linear perspective in a rapid manner. Drawing without tools is emphasized although tool use is explained and demonstrated for the student for both sketchbook drawing and drafting board drawing. One, two and three point perspective drawing is explained Drawing style, composition and use of color are also explained.

Prerequisites: None. Offered: Fall, Spring

Credit Breakout:  1.00  lecture,   1.00  lab,  0.00  other.

Student Expectations: Each student is expected to attend all lectures/labs, participate in class activities, participate in class discussions and turn in assignments when due.

Color Theory and Applications 2

This course covers the historical background of color. Artist colors are explored using terminology in conjunction with painting mixing to reflect the terminology. Creative color assignments are given to enhance their knowledge. Commercial reproduction of color will be addressed with the translation of artist colors to print colors. Color interpretations and trends are also discussed. Digital color, corrections on digital files and how color works on the computer monitor and web will be covered as well as printing from digital files. Color management of files will also be included.

Prerequisites: None.

Credit Breakout:  1.00  lecture,   1.00  lab,  0.00  other.

Student Expectations: Each student is expected to attend all lectures/labs, participate in class activities, participate in class discussions and turn in assignments when due.

Layout I 2

This course covers development of page layout and basic graphic design processes. It provides an overview of the graphic design profession and a historical framework for modern graphic design/page layout practices. The student will overcome visual design problems by employing design elements and principles used as the foundation of any design work. It includes the "how to's" of creating effective page layout for print and screen. Practical applications of typography and use of visual concepts will be explored. This course will utilize hand layout tools exclusively.

Prerequisites: None

Credit Breakout:  1.00  lecture,   1.00  lab,  0.00  other.

Student Expectations: All students are expected to attend all lectures/labs, participate in class activities, participate in class discussions and turn in assignments when due.

Introduction to Photography 3

In this course the student will learn how to use all the manual 35mm camera controls to create good black and white photographs. We will practice using the motion and depth-of-field controls in different kinds of outdoor and natural lighting conditions. The student will combine the knowledge of different films and exposure techniques with the study of artistic composition to produce-pleasing images. Discussion of basic accessories and special techniques will round out the camera knowledge.

Prerequisites: None.

Credit Breakout:  3.00  lecture,   0.00  lab,  0.00  other.

Student Expectations: Each student will be responsible for all shooting, reading and worksheet assignments and completing them outside regular class time. The student will participate in classroom discussion. At least 2 hours per week will be needed for preparing and taking photos for class assignments. Attendance is critical in this class due to the amount of information discussed in this class.

Visual Design Fundamentals 3

This course will take the principles of design along with art fundamentals and apply them to the development of graphic design projects. Students will be introduced to basic drawing techniques to illustrate their ideas. The elements of design and color will be studied. Presentation skills and professional attitude will be practiced. Specific emphasis will be made in developing creativity and overcoming creative blocks. The student will be able to apply these design fundamentals to all aspects of the visual communications field.

Prerequisites: None. Offered: Fall, Spring

Credit Breakout:  2.00  lecture,   1.00  lab,  0.00  other.

Student Expectations: Each student is expected to attend all lectures/labs, participate in class activities, participate in class discussions and turn in assignments when due.

Interactive Design Fundamentals 2

This course will explore the fundamentals of design, development and delivery of computer-based multimedia. Students will be introduced to basic HTML, image preparation and web page tools/software. The elements and principles of design along with general presentation skills and professionalism will be practiced. Special emphasis will be placed on uses of multimedia in the visual communications industry and the structure of the Internet. Students will be able to create a simple website with HTML and upload it to a server at the end of the course.

Prerequisites: VCOM1040, Basic Drawing

Credit Breakout:  1.00  lecture,   1.00  lab,  0.00  other.

Scale and Perspective 2

This beginning drawing course covers drawing techniques for drawing linear perspective in a rapid manner. Drawing without tools is emphasized although tool use is explained and demonstrated by the student for both sketchbook drawing and drafting board drawing. One, two and three point drawing is explained as well as drawing style and use of color.

Prerequisites: None. Offered: Fall, Spring

Credit Breakout:  1.00  lecture,   1.00  lab,  0.00  other.

Student Expectations: Each student will spend at least 5 hours per week preparing for class. Attendance is critical in this class.

Typography Fundamentals 2

Students will learn the basics of typography. Measurement, type fitting, design with type and an appreciation of type in the design process will be stressed.

Prerequisites: None. Offered: Varies

Credit Breakout:  2.00  lecture,   0.00  lab,  0.00  other.

  Total Credits 18

Spring Semester – First Year

Course# Course Title Credits
Introduction to Photoshop 2

This is an introduction of the basic tools used for image manipulation in Adobe PhotoShop. Image modification and compositing, use of the scanner, and mastery of PhotoShop tools are stressed. Image adjustment and enhancement and layer masks are also taught.

Prerequisites: None. Offered: Fall, Spring

Credit Breakout:  1.00  lecture,   1.00  lab,  0.00  other.

Student Expectations: Each student will spend at least 3 hours per week preparing for class. Attendance is critical in this class.

Creative Problem Solving 3

In this course various methods of solving creative problems will be explored through design projects. The elements and principles of design will be utilized applying methods of creative problem solving.

Prerequisites: None. Offered: Varies

Credit Breakout:  2.00  lecture,   1.00  lab,  0.00  other.

Student Expectations: All students are expected to attend all lectures/labs, participate in class activities, participate in class discussions and turn in assignments when due.

Intro to QuarkXPress or 2

Students will become familiar with QuarkXPress an electronic layout program. Emphasis will be placed on software operation. Use of text, graphics, tabs, style sheets, and master pages will be incorporated into projects.

Prerequisites: VCOM1000 recommended. Offered: Varies

Credit Breakout:  1.00  lecture,   1.00  lab,  0.00  other.

Student Expectations: Each student will spend at least 2 hours per week preparing for class. Attendance is critical in this class.

Intro to InDesign  

Students will become familiar with Adobe InDesign as an electronic publishing program. Emphasis will be placed on software operation. Use of text, graphics, tabs, style sheets, and master pages will be incorporated into projects.

Prerequisites: VCOM1000 recommended. Offered: Varies

Credit Breakout:  1.00  lecture,   1.00  lab,  0.00  other.

Student Expectations: Each student will spend at least 2 hours per week preparing for class. Attendance is critical in this class.

Introduction to Illustrator 2

This course is a comprehensive look into the drawing tools of Adobe Illustrator, a computer illustration application. Students will develop skills using the basic drawing tools. Use of the transformation tools, templates, layering, spot and process color and file output will be emphasized.

Prerequisites: VCOM1000 recommended. Offered: Fall, Spring

Credit Breakout:  1.00  lecture,   1.00  lab,  0.00  other.

Student Expectations: Each student will spend at least 2 hours per week preparing for class. Attendance is critical in this class.

Introduction to Flash 2

Students will use Macromedia object based 2D animation program to create animated segments for use in web pages. Timing, storyboarding, design and software tools will be emphasized.

Prerequisites: VCOM1010, VCOM1410 recommended. Offered: Varies

Credit Breakout:  1.00  lecture,   1.00  lab,  0.00  other.

Introduction to Computers 3

This online-enhanced course covers the basics of using Personal Computers (PC's) and the Microsoft Office Professional suite of programs, including Word, Excel, Access and PowerPoint to create documents, spreadsheets, databases and presentations. Students will also be introduced to the Internet, e-mail and the history of computers. This course meets the Dakota County Technical College's computer literacy requirement.

Prerequisites: A typing speed of 25 words per minute is recommended but not required or COML0900. Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer

Credit Breakout:  2.00  lecture,   1.00  lab,  0.00  other.

General Education Elective** 4

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  Total Credits 18

Fall Semester – Second Year

Course# Course Title Credits
3D Modeling and Animation 3

This course is designed to give the skills needed to make basic computer generated 3D models and animations for use in multimedia and web projects. Software will be used to create, animate and render 3-D models. Textures, color and lighting will be applied to wire frame models. Emphasis is placed on tool and menu use to create models and animations.

Prerequisites: VCOM1000, VCOM1010 required, VCOM1410 recommended. Offered: Varies

Credit Breakout:  2.00  lecture,   1.00  lab,  0.00  other.

Student Expectations: Each student will spend at least 3 hours per week preparing for class. Attendance is critical in this class.

Web Page Construction I 2

This class will familiarize students with the concepts of web page design and construction. Emphasis will be on good design for both graphic elements and logical web page information flow.

Prerequisites: VCOM1010 recommended and VCOM1410 required or instructor approval. Offered: Varies

Credit Breakout:  1.00  lecture,   1.00  lab,  0.00  other.

Student Expectations: Each student will spend at least 2 hours per week preparing for class. Attendance is critical in this class.

Advanced Multimedia Production 2

This course is project intensive. Students will use skills learned in Intro Director and/or Intro Authorware to create portfolio quality multimedia production. Emphasis will be placed on use of scripting language, logical information flow, story boarding, and quality graphic design.

Prerequisites: VCOM1001, VCOM1010, VCOM1410, VCOM2655. Offered: Varies

Credit Breakout:  1.00  lecture,   1.00  lab,  0.00  other.

Advanced Flash Animation 3

This course is designed to give students additional instruction and experience in Macromedia’s Flash Animation software. This is a project driven course and students will work on a variety of presentations for delivery on the web. Emphasis will be placed on design and the use of scripting language to control Flash animations.

Prerequisites: VCOM2680. Offered: Varies

Credit Breakout:  2.00  lecture,   1.00  lab,  0.00  other.

Student Expectations: Each student will spend at least 3 hours per week preparing for class. Attendance is critical in this class.

Interpersonal Communication 3

This course focuses on the practical and theoretical concepts of human communications and the styles used in personal, social and professional environments. Students will also acquire skills in critical thinking, perception, listening, verbal and non-verbal expressions and conflict resolution.

Prerequisites: None. Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer

Credit Breakout:  3.00  lecture,   0.00  lab,  0.00  other.

Student Expectations: Each student will spend at least 6 hours per week preparing for class. Attendance is critical in this class.

Writing and Research Skills 3

This course emphasizes the process of writing expository and persuasive essays using effective writing skills and a variety of research techniques. Also included in the course content are critical reading and logical reasoning.

Prerequisites: Meet qualifying scores on ACCUPLACER test OR successfully complete ENGL0130 OR receive instructor's approval. Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer

Credit Breakout:  3.00  lecture,   0.00  lab,  0.00  other.

Student Expectations: Each student will spend at least 6 hours per week preparing for class. Attendance is critical in this class.

Technical Elective* 2

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  Total Credits 18

Spring Semester – Second Year

Course# Course Title Credits
Audio/Video for Multimedia 3

This course introduces the student to the planning, designing and production of photo/video based presentations and audio. Students will learn how to develop timelines, narrative scripts and story boards. Students will become familiar with techniques of audio, video and still images creation, compression and formatting appropriate for use in interactive multimedia and linear presentation. Delivery and packaging of a variety of digital media will also be covered.

Prerequisites: None

Credit Breakout:  2.00  lecture,   1.00  lab,  0.00  other.

Student Expectations: Each student will spend at least 3 hours per week preparing for class. Attendance is critical in this class.

Multimedia Project Management 2

This course is designed to introduce the student to the methods of design and construction of a multimedia production. Students will learn project management, client contact and presentation techniques. Students will learn to integrate information from a variety of resources into a multimedia production design. Teamwork and group participation in project development will be stressed.

Prerequisites: VCOM1000 recommended. Offered: Varies

Credit Breakout:  2.00  lecture,   0.00  lab,  0.00  other.

Student Expectations: Each student will spend at least 2 hours per week preparing for class. Attendance is critical in this class.

Web Page Construction II 3

In this class students will become familiar with advanced web page design techniques. The emphasis will be on good design of both graphic elements and logical web page information flow. This advanced course will introduce students to a variety of web page construction software packages and tools. Additionally issues dealing with file transmission (audio, video, multimedia interaction) will be discussed.

Prerequisites: VCOM2685.

Credit Breakout:  1.00  lecture,   2.00  lab,  0.00  other.

Portfolio for Multimedia and Web Design 2

This class will concentrate on preparing the student to enter the multimedia, print industry and illustration job market. Students will be required to create a finished graphics portfolio in the area of their degree. Students will use skills learned in other software applications to refine and develop projects for use in their portfolio. Projects will be created using multimedia and web authoring programs. Projects for inclusion in the portfolio will be created in pixel based, object based, layout, web authoring and multimedia programs.

Prerequisites: This course must be taken in conjunction with VCOM2730.

Credit Breakout:  0.00  lecture,   2.00  lab,  0.00  other.

Career Research Skills 1

This class will concentrate on preparing the student to enter the Visual Communication's job market. Students will be required to create a cover letter, resume and finished mini-portfolio. Students will practice job interviewing skills and prepare to present their portfolios. This course should be taken the last semester of study and should be taken in conjunction with VCOM2724, Portfolio Development (Applied Visual Arts) or VCOM2721 Portfolio Development (Graphic Design) or VCOM2722 Portfolio Development (Multimedia/Web)

Prerequisites: None

Credit Breakout:  1.00  lecture,   0.00  lab,  0.00  other.

General Education Electives** 7

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  Total Credits 18
Total Program Requirements 72

This is a sample course sequence resulting in an A.A.S. degree.
Please consult your program advisor regarding your academic plans.

* Technical Electives may be selected from course subject area VCOM.

** Select General Education electives from any MnTC goal area.