Digital Design (DDSN) Courses
DDSN 295 Independent Studies in Digital Design
- Units:1 - 3
- Hours:54 - 162 hours LAB
- Prerequisite:None.
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2023
This course allows students to have a learning experience in one or more of the areas of graphic design, Web design, and user interface/user experience design, that is not currently covered by other course curriculum. Students will gain new skills, a real-world experience, and portfolio pieces while independently studying under the advisement of a Design and Digital Media faculty member. Formerly known as GCOM 295
DDSN 299 Experimental Offering in Digital Design
- Units:0.5 - 4
- Prerequisite:None.
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2023
This is the experimental courses description.
DDSN 301 Graphic Design I
- Units:3
- Hours:36 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
- Prerequisite:None.
- Advisory:DDSN 311 (formerly GCOM 313) or DDSN 341 (formerly GCOM 340) with a grade of "C" or better, or equivalent
- Transferable:CSU
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2023
This course prepares students pursuing a career in the graphic communication fields with an in-depth exploration of the principles of graphic design. Strong emphasis is given to the development of visual acumen. Specific focus will be on design and gestalt principles; integration of text and image on the two-dimensional page; and introduction to typographic exploration. This course is a foundation course for all design students and explores interactivity across all forms of visual communication. This course is relevant to students studying graphic design, Web design, and computer animation. Formerly known as GCOM 343
DDSN 302 Graphic Design II
- Units:3
- Hours:36 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
- Prerequisite:DDSN 301 (formerly GCOM 343) with a grade of "C" or better, or equivalent
- Transferable:CSU
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2023
This is an in-depth graphic design course focusing on explorations in page layout design, image creation, and design research. Students will use both digital and hand construction techniques to design projects containing "real world" and experimental challenges. Students will develop and follow graphic design processes, resulting in several new portfolio pieces. Topics include branding, experimental image creation, multi-page publication design, book binding, constructive critique, sustainable design, and proper planning for a graphic design project. Formerly known as GCOM 345
DDSN 303 Typography I
- Units:3
- Hours:36 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
- Prerequisite:DDSN 311 (formerly GCOM 313) or DDSN 341 (formerly GCOM 340) with a grade of "C" or better, or equivalent
- Transferable:CSU
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2023
Typography is the most essential ingredient for successful graphic design, including print, web, and all other new media. This introductory course serves as an essential primer for graphic designers in understanding the history and core principles of typography. Formerly known as GCOM 347
DDSN 305 History of Graphic Design
- Units:3
- Hours:54 hours LEC
- Prerequisite:None.
- Transferable:CSU; UC
- General Education:AA/AS Area I; CSU Area C1; Cal-GETC Area 3A (effective Fall 2025); IGETC Area 3A
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2023
This course surveys the history of visual communication, design's sociopolitical and cultural contexts, and the artistic and technological characteristics of various movements. Students gain a broad understanding of design and its dynamic past to discover inspiration for the present. Students conduct research, propose, and create a project inspired by the designers and movements studied. Formerly known as GCOM 305
DDSN 306 Human-Centered Design
- Units:3
- Hours:36 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
- Prerequisite:None.
- Transferable:CSU
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2023
This course introduces the Human-Centered Design Process (also known as Design Thinking) through a series of activities and projects that generate effective design solutions. Phases of this process include observation, interviews, immersive empathy, defining opportunities, ideation, prototyping, testing, and project iteration. Students will learn to apply design thinking to create solutions that are insightful and innovative, culminating in several portfolio pieces.
DDSN 311 Digital Layout I
- Units:3
- Hours:36 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
- Prerequisite:None.
- Transferable:CSU
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2023
This course is an introduction to graphic design principles related to page layout, composition, and electronic publishing, utilizing an industry-standard software. Students will discover how to effectively utilize the software, the design process, and critical thinking skills to create print projects such as brochures, publications, advertising, business systems, and a variety of other digital materials that follow basic layout and design principles. Formerly known as GCOM 313
DDSN 312 Digital Layout II
- Units:3
- Hours:36 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
- Prerequisite:DDSN 311 (formerly GCOM 313) with a grade of "C" or better, or equivalent
- Transferable:CSU
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2023
This is an in-depth course covering advanced creative layout, production, and electronic publishing in the graphic design industry. Utilizing industry-standard software and process, students will conceive and produce dynamic portfolio-quality projects. Topics include brand and identity design, interactive accessible form design, typography, grid, color theory, composition, multipage publication design, brochure and packaging layout, Gestalt principles, basic interactive media design, print and digital book and publication design, and working with clients. Formerly known as GCOM 314
DDSN 321 Print and Multimedia Publication Design I
- Units:3
- Hours:36 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
- Prerequisite:DDSN 311 (formerly GCOM 313) with a grade of "C" or better, or equivalent
- Transferable:CSU
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2023
This course introduces beginning level newspaper, magazine, Web, and multimedia publication design. Students will learn how to design and produce the award-winning Sacramento City College school newspaper, the bi-annual student magazine, and their accompanying websites and multi-media content. Using fundamental design concepts and theory involving grid, page layout, typography, and visual communication, students will work alongside journalism, photography, and intermediate- and advanced-level design students to produce a variety of content. This course offers an opportunity to build a portfolio and gain experience while working on real-world projects. Formerly known as GCOM 319
DDSN 322 Print and Multimedia Publication Design II
- Units:3
- Hours:36 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
- Prerequisite:DDSN 321 (formerly GCOM 319) with a grade of "C" or better, or equivalent
- Transferable:CSU
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2023
This course examines intermediate-level newspaper, magazine, Web, and multimedia publication design. Students are responsible for the design and production of the award-winning Sacramento City College school newspaper, the bi-annual student magazine, and their accompanying websites and multimedia content. Using fundamental design concepts and theory involving grids, page layout, typography, and visual communication, students will work alongside journalism and photography students and beginning- and advanced-level design students to plan and produce a variety of content. This course offers an opportunity to build a portfolio and gain experience while working on real-world projects. Formerly known as GCOM 320
DDSN 323 Print and Multimedia Publication Design III
- Units:3
- Hours:36 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
- Prerequisite:DDSN 322 (formerly GCOM 320) with a grade of "C" or better, or equivalent
- Transferable:CSU
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2023
This course examines advanced level newspaper, magazine, Web, and multimedia publication design. Students are responsible for the planning, art direction, and production management of the award-winning Sacramento City College school newspaper, the bi-annual student magazine, and their accompanying websites and multi-media content. Using fundamental design concepts and theory involving grids, page layout, typography, and visual communication, students will work alongside student editors and beginning- and intermediate-level design students to plan and produce a variety of publication content. This course offers an opportunity to build a portfolio and gain experience while working on real-world projects. Formerly known as GCOM 321
DDSN 331 Digital Imaging I
- Units:3
- Hours:36 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
- Prerequisite:None.
- Transferable:CSU; UC (Approved for 2nd round submissions. )
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2023
This introductory course covers the core concepts associated with digital imaging. Adobe Photoshop is used for creating, manipulating, and enhancing digital images for print and screen-based media. Students learn how to effectively use this software in a graphic design environment, planning and carrying out professional digital imaging projects. This course introduces both basic visual design concepts and a comprehensive understanding of digital workflow, providing the student with a foundation for print, web, interactive, animation, and game design projects. Formerly known as GCOM 330
DDSN 332 Digital Imaging II
- Units:3
- Hours:36 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
- Prerequisite:DDSN 331 (formerly GCOM 330) with a grade of "C" or better or equivalent
- Transferable:CSU
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2023
This course centers on graphic design process and production employing advanced image editing techniques using the current version of industry-standard software. In addition to learning advanced capabilities, students will learn how to alter existing images realistically, creatively apply techniques to original artwork and images, visually communicate ideas and messages successfully, and prepare and present their projects to meet professional industry standards. Formerly known as GCOM 331
DDSN 333 Digital Imaging III
- Units:3
- Hours:36 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
- Prerequisite:DDSN 331 (formerly GCOM 330) with a grade of "C" or better, or equivalent
- Transferable:CSU
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2023
This course centers on advanced digital imaging and image editing techniques for Internet, user interface, 3D, and video applications, using the current version of industry-standard software. Students will learn advanced capabilities such as how to alter existing images realistically, creatively apply techniques to original artwork and images, prepare static and animated graphics for use in a variety of digital media, import and alter 3D and video images, visually communicate ideas and messages successfully, and prepare and present their projects to meet professional industry standards. Formerly known as GCOM 332
DDSN 335 Digital Imaging - Special Techniques
- Units:1.5
- Hours:18 hours LEC; 27 hours LAB
- Prerequisite:DDSN 331 (formerly GCOM 330) with a grade of "C" or better, or equivalent
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2023
Students will learn how to use industry-standard digital imaging techniques in the process of creating artistic pieces and a final design project. Through lecture and hands-on exercises, students will learn to create and edit digital image types for any digital, creative, or visual situation. Topics include the use of channels, layers, brushes, filters, typography, color, gradients, and adjustments. Emphasis is placed on gaining creative control over every step in the creative process as well as efficient practices in handling the program. The techniques covered in this course can be applied to various digital media output methods including print design, Web design, 3D animation, and digital video. Formerly known as GCOM 105
DDSN 341 Digital Illustration for Graphic Design I
- Units:3
- Hours:36 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
- Prerequisite:None.
- Transferable:CSU
- C-ID:C-ID ARTS 250
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2023
This is an introductory course engaging students in theories of form making, design research, composition, and typography using the medium of digital illustration. Course projects encourage students to experiment, work within creative and technical limitations, and communicate visually. Additionally, students learn how digital illustrations are created, are exposed to a variety of different illustration styles, practice contemporary design methods and thinking, and study a designers' use of digital illustration as a communication tool. This course offers students several processes for designing original graphics and illustrations for graphic design. Formerly known as GCOM 340
DDSN 342 Digital Illustration for Graphic Design II
- Units:3
- Hours:36 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
- Prerequisite:DDSN 341 (formerly GCOM 340) with a grade of "C" or better, or equivalent
- Advisory:ART 300 with a grade of "C" or better
- Transferable:CSU
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2023
This course builds upon the thinking and making skills developed in DDSN 341 (formerly GCOM 340) and takes an in-depth look at applying digital illustration tools to graphic design investigations. The course work encourages students to experiment and communicate with digitally illustrated and typographic form making. Topics include color, typography, composition, visual theme, drawing technique, and understanding the offset and digital printing processes. Students complete the course with several professionally designed, original illustrations for their portfolios. Formerly known as GCOM 341
DDSN 360 User Interface Design
- Units:3
- Hours:36 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
- Prerequisite:None.
- Transferable:CSU
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2023
This course introduces the fundamentals and principles of contemporary user interface and website design, and the current process and technologies used. The course will provide students with the basics of Web literacy, site and interaction development, information architecture, accessibility, user experience and usability testing, wireframes, prototypes, visual design principles, and process. Students will also create a content management system-based website. Formerly known as GCOM 360
DDSN 361 Web Design I
- Units:3
- Hours:36 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
- Prerequisite:DDSN 360 (formerly GCOM 360) with a grade of "C" or better, or equivalent
- Transferable:CSU
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2023
Students will explore theory and processes involved in designing various types of websites using an industry-standard CMS (content management system). Through a series of incremental lectures, reading, and assignments, students will explore theory and processes involved in online communications and integration of online tools, culminating in the development of a live / functional website. This course provides an overview of HTML and CSS, usability (UI/UX), project and client management, preparing images for screens, marketing via social media, prototyping, and responsive design. Students will be required to have or purchase web hosting and a domain name ($50-$75). Formerly known as GCOM 361
DDSN 362 Web Design II
- Units:3
- Hours:36 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
- Prerequisite:DDSN 361 (formerly GCOM 361) with a grade of "C" or better, and CISW 306 with a grade of "C" or better, or proof of equivalent experience using HTML and CSS
- Transferable:CSU
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2023
In this course, career-minded students will explore advanced concepts of website communications, applying user-centered design principles to improve interactive features. Using an industry-standard CMS (content management system), students will learn to add extensions to the core features, advanced theme customization with CSS, child themes, and customized functions and layouts. Students will improve interaction with users through social media and email marketing, eCommerce, advanced forms and surveys, targeted SEO, and event calendars. Students who complete this course will have the ability to create and manage complex website systems and tools. Students will be required to have or purchase Web hosting and a domain name ($50-$75). Formerly known as GCOM 362
DDSN 370 Visual Content For Social Media
- Units:3
- Hours:36 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
- Prerequisite:None.
- Transferable:CSU
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2023
This course introduces students to visual content creation for social media using specialized mobile apps on smart phones and tablets. Students will learn to create photos and illustrations, edit static and motion graphics, and produce and publish marketing content for websites, social networking sites, and other online media. Basic visual concepts are introduced and utilized to create professional imagery, design projects, and visual storytelling using mobile device techniques and tools. Students must have their own mobile device (smart phone or tablet) and access to an online app store.
DDSN 390 Professional Practice and Portfolio
- Units:3
- Hours:36 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
- Prerequisite:Prior to taking this course, a student will need to have produced at least five finished works to use in the creation of their portfolio.
- Transferable:CSU
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2023
This course prepares students pursuing occupations in digital media arts and related technologies, including graphic design and communication, web design, user interface design, 3D animation and modeling, and game design, with a portfolio of work, career skills, and knowledge of industry practices essential to these fields. Topics include: organization and physical preparation of a portfolio of work, applying to a four-year college or design program, job and internship searches, soliciting and performing freelance work, setting up a studio, working in an existing firm, developing client relationships, self-promotion, and other resources. Using a combination of lectures and guests from the industry, this course will offer practical advice and philosophical guidance toward gaining a rewarding career in the many digital media and design fields. Formerly known as GCOM 349
DDSN 391 Design Studio I
- Units:3
- Hours:36 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
- Prerequisite:One course from the following: ANIM 301, DDSN 311, DDSN 331, DDSN 341, DDSN 360, DDSN 361, MODL 301 (formerly GCOM 400, GCOM 313, GCOM 330, GCOM 340, GCOM 360, GCOM 361, GCOM 402) with grades of “C” or better or equivalent
- Transferable:CSU
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2023
Design Studio I immerses career-driven students in a design business environment with real clients, deadlines, and roles. The studio works for non-profit organizations, the Sacramento community, and other businesses designing projects and campaigns. Projects include graphic design, Web design, and animation. Through client meetings, small group brainstorming, lecture, and demonstration, students will have the opportunity to develop a portfolio of completed projects and campaigns. Students will learn to write a client proposal, to interview a client, to experience the client-designer relationship, to set pricing for projects, and to present design work to a team and client. Formerly known as GCOM 490.
DDSN 392 Design Studio II
- Units:3
- Hours:36 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
- Prerequisite:DDSN 391 (formerly GCOM 490) with a grade of "C" or better
- Transferable:CSU
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2023
Design Studio II introduces intermediate-level skills to career-driven design students. Through lecture, demonstration, client meetings, and group brainstorming sessions, students will have the opportunity to develop a portfolio of completed projects. Students will also experience deadlines, the client-designer relationship, setting prices for projects, and how to present concepts and design work to a team and client. Formerly known as GCOM 491
DDSN 393 Design Studio III
- Units:3
- Hours:36 hours LEC; 54 hours LAB
- Prerequisite:DDSN 392 (formerly GCOM 491) with a grade of "C" or better
- Transferable:CSU
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2023
Design Studio III introduces advanced-level skills to career-driven design students. Through lecture, demonstration, client meetings, and group brainstorming sessions, students will have the opportunity to develop a portfolio of completed projects. Students will also experience deadlines, the client-designer relationship, how setting prices for projects, and how to present concepts and design work to a team and client. Formerly known as GCOM 493
DDSN 495 Independent Studies in Digital Design
- Units:1 - 3
- Hours:54 - 162 hours LAB
- Prerequisite:None.
- Transferable:CSU
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2023
This course involves an individual student or small groups of students in study, research, or activities beyond the scope of regularly offered courses, pursuant to an agreement among college, faculty members, and students. Independent Studies in Digital Design offers students a chance to do research and/or experimentation in the areas of graphic design, Web design, and/or user interface/user experience design, that is more typical of advanced studies in this program, studying under the advisement of a Design and Digital Media faculty member. Formerly known as GCOM 495
DDSN 499 Experimental Offering in Digital Design
- Units:0.5 - 4
- Prerequisite:None.
- Catalog Date:August 1, 2023
This is the experimental courses description.