COURSE CURRICULUM

The Graphic Design (GPHD) curriculum at California State University, Sacramento provides students with a comprehensive education in visual communication, design theory, and professional practice. The program begins with introductory courses that establish fundamental knowledge of graphic design concepts and digital tools. Courses such as Introduction to Graphic Design and Introduction to Digital Design familiarize students with the field, including career opportunities, current industry trends, and the basic techniques used to solve visual communication problems. Students also gain historical and theoretical knowledge through History of Graphic Design, which explores the evolution of visual communication from early pictographs and symbolic imagery to contemporary graphic design practices. Foundational design skills are developed in courses such as Visual Basics and Visual Basics II, where students learn about visual structures, color theory, gestalt principles, and the processes of idea development, sketching, and rapid prototyping.As students progress, the curriculum emphasizes more specialized design skills and advanced technical knowledge. Typography courses examine the development and application of typographic systems in design solutions, focusing on readability, composition, and effective visual communication. Graphic Design Systems courses introduce the language of design systems, color theory, and visual organization, while Design Production and Management explores project management techniques and the coordination of various digital tools used in professional design workflows. Additional courses focus on interactive and digital media, including User Interface Design and User Experience Design, which teach students how to create user-centered digital environments and interactive design solutions.At the advanced level, students develop professional design strategies and research-based projects in courses such as Advanced Graphic Design and Professional Practice. These courses emphasize conceptual development, design research, and real-world problem solving while preparing students for careers in the creative industry. Students also build professional portfolios and learn about networking, employment strategies, and ethical issues in design practice. Practical experience is further supported through internship opportunities in Fieldwork in Graphic Design, where students gain supervised industry experience. Overall, the curriculum integrates theoretical knowledge, technical skills, and professional development to prepare students for careers in graphic design, digital media, branding, and visual communication industries.