This introductory course takes a comprehensive survey of the fundamentals of graphic design paired with the relevant software and processes involved for print and web publishing. It is designed for those wishing to pursue a career in online and desktop design or publishing. Students will be introduced to the fundamentals of; type, graphic elements, preparing digital art, working with colour and file preparation for both print and online publishing. Participants are given a comprehensive "jump-start" in working with industry standard desktop publishing and web design programs including; Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, Adobe InDesign and Dreamweaver.

Students learn the basic principles and accepted structure of web design, build advanced HTML5 websites using modern techniques and best practices, style websites using CSS3 and validate, debug and fine-tune HTML5. Web usability and accessibility heuristics and responsive design are also covered.

This hands-on course begins with the core features of photo manipulation and continues with advanced functions that focus on measurable improvements in productivity and speed. Topics include using layers to build composite images, adjusting tonality, retouching images, using filters, feathering photos, masking, colour range selection, professional retouching skills, systematic image analysis, filter technology, advanced composite images and colour models.

In this course, students obtain the requisite skills to utilize InDesign - Adobe's powerful page layout application. Using practical hands-on projects they create ads, brochures, newsletters, business cards and long documents for print and PDF distribution, apply advanced typesetting functions, control and edit documents, and manage output.

Students discuss and practice creating illustrations using strategies for easy execution. Topics covered include: drawing, typography, compound paths, special effects, three-dimensional objects, layers, masks, complex patterns, blends, effects, custom colours, transformations, transparencies and blend modes, perspectives, graphs, gradients, creating brushes and graphic styles.

This course begins by outlining the challenges facing designers when creating websites that function on a variety of devices. Students explore the fundamental differences in user behavior across various devices, explore usage scenarios and how to optimize designs for the mobile web. By utilizing responsive web design patterns, students will obtain a deep understanding of the importance of mobile first and progressive enhancement design techniques and strategies.

This capstone course walks participants through each step required to prepare, assemble, highlight and feature samples of their best work and achievements in design and layout. Participants are prepared by using the skills and techniques necessary for printing and publishing a professional portfolio, promotional ephemera and web-based media.