Suggested Sequence of Study
The following suggested sequence of study is for new full-time students starting the program Fall 2024.
When you’re ready to register for classes, visit Self-Service, Student Planning. This will show you your specific program requirements and how you’re doing so far.
Please note that course offerings and costs can change. See what’s included in the cost calculation.
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- Course has a prerequisite and/or corequisite

Course Descriptions: Show All | Hide All
Semester 1
- A minimum grade of D in both ART-133 and ART-134 can be used as a replacement for GRA-105.
Course |
Note |
Credits |
Cost |
COM-781 |
Written Communication in the Workplace
|
|
3 |
$675.00 |
or ENG-105 |
Composition I
Composition I emphasizes fluency, thesis-driven organization, the use of supporting details, and research techniques. Writing is approached as a recursive process that includes prewriting strategies, drafting, revising, and editing. The course helps students shape writing to serve readers' needs and define a sense of purpose in their writing. It also gives students strategies for reading college-level material.
Lecture Hours: 48
Prerequisite(s): Appropriate placement score or equivalent.
|
|
3 |
$675.00 |
GRA-105 |
Drawing and Composition
This course provides students with the experience of creating hand drawn art using a variety of drawing mediums, tools and techniques. Emphasis is placed on the fundamentals of drawing, artistic expression, artistic perception, visual organization, and composition. Articulating viable design concepts and solutions for common graphic design problems through drawing will be presented.
Lecture Hours: 32
Lab Hours: 64
|
|
4 |
$972.00 |
or ART-133 |
Drawing
This course concentrates on fundamental drawing problems: gesture, contour, proportions, mapping techniques and values are studied through the use of props and clothed models. Creative interpretation with various media and approaches are stressed.
Lecture Hours: 32
Lab Hours: 32
|
|
3 |
$740.00 |
and ART-134 |
Drawing II
This course concentrates on more advanced drawing problems: gesture, contour,proportions,mapping techniques and value are studied through the use of props and clothed models addressed in Drawing 1. The focus will be more creative interpretation with various media and approaches.
Lecture Hours: 32
Lab Hours: 32
|
|
3 |
$720.00 |
GRA-133 |
Desktop Publishing
This course provides students with the experience of producing and preparing various types of page layout and design formats for print media. Emphasis is placed on building print ready publications using Adobe InDesign. Desktop computer setup, color management, project management, and printing technologies will be presented.
Lecture Hours: 32
Lab Hours: 64
|
|
4 |
$929.00 |
GRA-196 |
Design and Layout I
This course provides students with the experience of designing single page layout formats for print media. Emphasis is placed on making effective design and layout decisions to visually communicate information to a targeted audience. An introduction to the Graphic Design profession, design process, elements of design, principles of design, and typography will be presented.
Lecture Hours: 32
Lab Hours: 64
Pre/Co-requisite(s): A minimum grade of D- in GRA-133.
|
|
4 |
$944.00 |
Total Credits: 15
Total Tuition + Course Fees: $3,520.00
Semester 2
Course |
Note |
Credits |
Cost |
GRA-124 |
Electronic Illustration
This course provides students with the experience of creating vector graphics for print media. Emphasis is placed on rendering digital artwork using Adobe Illustrator. Various 2D and 3D illustration drawing techniques along with creating intricate vector type and type effects will be presented.
Lecture Hours: 48
Lab Hours: 32
Prerequisite(s): GRA-133
|
|
4 |
$929.00 |
GRA-142 |
Graphic Imaging
This course provides students with the experience of producing and preparing raster graphics for print media. Emphasis is placed on generating print quality photographic imagery using Adobe Photoshop. Image acquisition, color management, color correction, retouching, extracting, layering, compositing, and painting techniques along with creating raster type effects will be presented.
Lecture Hours: 48
Lab Hours: 32
Prerequisite(s): GRA-133
|
|
4 |
$929.00 |
GRA-197 |
Design and Layout II
This course provides students with the experience of designing single-page double-sided multi-panel print publications. Emphasis is placed on projects such as brochure, leaflet, pamphlet, folder, album cover, and/or dust jacket design and layout. An introduction to spot color, layout grids, folds, die cuts, single-page-multi-panel construction, and duplex printing will be presented.
Lecture Hours: 48
Lab Hours: 32
Prerequisite(s): Minimum grade of D in GRA-196 and GRA-133.
|
|
4 |
$929.00 |
MAT-772 |
Applied Math
This course is designed to present basic facts of arithmetic including whole numbers, fractions, decimals, powers, roots, English and metric measurement, ratio-proportion, percents, introduction to algebra, introduction to geometry, and applied statistics. Instruction includes use of scientific hand-held calculators and emphasis placed on critical thinking, problem solving skills.
Lecture Hours: 48
Prerequisite(s): Assessment score required.
|
|
3 |
$675.00 |
Total Credits: 15
Total Tuition + Course Fees: $3,462.00
Semester 3
Course |
Note |
Credits |
Cost |
GRA-162 |
Web Page Graphics
This course provides students with the experience of producing and preparing raster and vector graphics for screen display. Emphasis is placed on generating quality website graphics using Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, and other emerging technologies. Incorporating, sizing, positioning, and styling responsive high-density web page graphics into a website will be presented.
Lecture Hours: 32
Lab Hours: 32
Prerequisite(s): Minimum grade of D in GRA-124 and GRA-142.
|
|
3 |
$687.00 |
GRA-205 |
Design and Layout III
This course provides students with the experience of designing brand identity elements and multi-page print publications. Emphasis is placed on projects such as logo, business card, letterhead, style guide, newsletter, magazine, and/or catalog design and layout. An introduction to signature construction, style sheets, auto page numbering, finishing, and binding will be presented.
Lecture Hours: 48
Lab Hours: 32
Prerequisite(s): Minimum grade of D in GRA-124, and GRA-197, and GRA-142.
|
(Fall only) |
4 |
$929.00 |
GRA-238 |
Web Design and Layout
This course provides students with the experience of designing and developing a static Website. Emphasis is placed on making effective web design and layout decisions that comply with current web development standards. An introduction to the web design process, HTML and CSS programming languages, search engine optimization, and website hosting will be presented.
Lecture Hours: 48
Lab Hours: 32
|
|
4 |
$947.00 |
PSY-102 |
Human and Work Relations
Human Relations is the study of self and social behavior. Emphasis is placed on the understanding and application of social science theories and research for the development of effective interpersonal and organizational relationships.
Lecture Hours: 48
|
|
3 |
$675.00 |
or PSY-111 |
Introduction to Psychology
This course provides an introduction to the study of behavior and mental processes with emphasis in such areas as learning, cognition, motivation, personality, behavioral disorder, therapy, and social influence. An understanding of the impact of both theoretical perspectives and experimental evidence on the formulation of the science of human behavior is also stressed. Psychological theories and principles are utilized to explain and predict behavior.
Lecture Hours: 48
|
|
3 |
$675.00 |
or SOC-110 |
Introduction to Sociology
This course surveys the basic principles, concepts, and research findings of social life from small groups to societies. The course examines a range of sociological explanations for the various forms of social behaviors and establishes a basis for reflection and further study in the field.
Lecture Hours: 48
|
|
3 |
$675.00 |
Total Credits: 17
Total Tuition + Course Fees: $3,913.00
Semester 4
Course |
Note |
Credits |
Cost |
GRA-160 |
Interactive Multimedia
This course provides students with the experience of delivering dynamic content to a consumer. Emphasis is placed on producing interactive media via visual storytelling, personalized content, layered information, and/or two-way interaction platforms. An introduction to presentation, animation, dynamic pdf, data merge, e-mail newsletter, and augmented reality software will be presented.
Lecture Hours: 32
Lab Hours: 32
Prerequisite(s): Minimum grade of D in GRA-124, and GRA-133, and GRA-142.
|
|
3 |
$702.00 |
GRA-206 |
Advanced Design and Layout
This course provides students with the knowledge and experiences needed to design an effective advertisement used to promote a product, service, or event. Emphasis is placed on advertising and advertisement formats and design for print media. Digital visual advertising media will be discussed.
Lecture Hours: 48
Lab Hours: 32
Prerequisite(s): Minimum grade of D in GRA-205.
|
|
4 |
$929.00 |
GRA-239 |
CMS Web Design
This course provides students with the experience of designing and developing a dynamic Website. Emphasis is placed on utilizing open source Web Content Management System (CMS) software to build a website. CMS installation, page and post construction, navigation deployment, plugins, widgets, theme design, and site administration will be presented.
Lecture Hours: 32
Lab Hours: 32
Prerequisite(s): Minimum grade of D in GRA-238.
|
|
3 |
$685.00 |
GRA-290 |
Portfolio Preparation
This course provides students with the knowledge and experiences needed to find gainful employment in a graphic design and web design related occupation. Emphasis is placed on developing a quality resume, portfolio development, job search strategies, and interviewing skills.
Lecture Hours: 32
Lab Hours: 32
Prerequisite(s): Minimum grade of D in GRA-205.
|
|
3 |
$704.00 |
SPC-101 |
Fundamentals of Oral Communication
This course introduces students to the oral communication process and how it affects human interaction There will be an emphasis on developing interpersonal, small group, and public speaking skills. Students will be involved in activities that provide opportunity for the understanding and improvement of their oral communication skills.
Lecture Hours: 48
|
|
3 |
$675.00 |
Total Credits: 16
Total Tuition + Course Fees: $3,695.00
Graphic Design Electives
Course |
Note |
Credits |
Cost |
ART-101 |
Art Appreciation
This course is an examination of the value, esthetic pleasures, structure, function, and history of art. The course explores sculpture, painting, film, drawing, printmaking, photography, ceramics, and architecture. Field trips to galleries allow students the opportunity to personally experience significant visual art.
Lecture Hours: 48
|
|
3 |
$675.00 |
ART-120 |
2-D Design
This course introduces students to the principles of design on the two-dimensional plane. Students are instructed in conceptual thinking, content and art practices, and exposed to design, color theory, and organizational principals. An introduction to materials and practice through the disciplines of drawing, painting, printmaking and collage are part of the conceptualization process offered in this curriculum.
Lecture Hours: 32
Lab Hours: 32
|
|
3 |
$750.00 |
ART-143 |
Painting
This course is an introduction to painting in a variety of media. Color theory, design theory and media area applied to exercises, studies, and finished paintings. Concentration is on developing skills in handling materials and personal expression through painting.
Lecture Hours: 32
Lab Hours: 32
|
|
3 |
$760.00 |
ART-144 |
Painting II
This course is an advanced painting course using a variety of media, with greater emphasis on self-direction. Concentration is on developing advanced skills in handling materials leading to greater abilities and personal expression through painting.
Lecture Hours: 32
Lab Hours: 32
Prerequisite(s): ART-143, or equivalent, or instructor approval.
|
|
3 |
$760.00 |
ART-184 |
Photography
This course provides an introduction to the basics of digital photography, from camera selection to its use as an art form and aesthetic medium. Content includes camera types, lenses, exposure controls, elements of composition, editing fundamentals, and the storage, printing and sharing of photographic images. It will also examine the elements of photographic theory, history and ethics. In this hands-on class, students will complete specific technique-based assignments and participate in class demonstrations, discussions and critiques.
Lecture Hours: 32
Lab Hours: 32
|
|
3 |
$730.00 |
ART-203 |
Art History I
This course is an introduction to the history of visual art and artists; prehistory through Gothic. All forms of media: painting, sculpture, drawing, architecture, ceramics, metal work, glass and others are considered in the context of time, society, and the human impulse to create.
Lecture Hours: 48
|
|
3 |
$675.00 |
ART-204 |
Art History II
This course is an introduction to the history of visual art and artists; Renaissance to the present. All forms of media: painting, sculpture, drawing, architecture, ceramics, metal work, glass, photography, film, and others are considered in the context of time, society, and the human impulse to create.
Lecture Hours: 48
|
|
3 |
$675.00 |
COM-151 |
ETC: Art and Literary Magazine
|
|
3 |
$675.00 |
GRA-221 |
Principles of Illustration
This course provides students with the experience of creating hand drawn illustration art using a variety of mediums, tools and techniques. Emphasis is placed on producing illustrations that will clarify, enhance, illuminate, or demonstrate the message of written text. Illustration approaches and Illustrating for various types of publications will be discussed.
Lecture Hours: 32
Lab Hours: 32
Prerequisite(s): Minimum grade of D in GRA-105 or ART-133 and ART-134.
|
|
3 |
$719.00 |
GRA-232 |
Photo Direction
This course provides students with the experience of directing a photographer during a commercial photo shoot. Emphasis is placed on communication between a graphic designer and commercial photographer. An introduction to the basics of digital photography, photography studio setup and lighting, digital camera operation, and still photography for advertising design will be presented.
Lecture Hours: 32
Lab Hours: 32
|
|
3 |
$704.00 |
GRA-924 |
Honors Project
This course involves in-depth independent research on an approved topic under supervision of a faculty member. Upon project's completion, results will be shared with community of peers and faculty. This course can be repeated with different content for credit.
Can be taken for 1 – 3 credits.
Lecture Hours: 16
|
|
1 |
$254.00 |
GRA-928 |
Independent Study
This course provides students with an opportunity to pursue or investigate a topic of interest that does not fit within the framework of regular course offerings. An independent study self-directed learning agreement must be discussed with and submitted to a faculty advisor prior to registration. This course can be repeated with different content for credit.
Lab Hours: 32
|
|
1 |
$225.00 |
GRA-932 |
Internship
This course provides students with an opportunity to pursue career-related work experience. Internships are on-site and under the direction of an experienced professional. An internship learning agreement must be discussed with and submitted to a faculty advisor prior to registration. This course can be repeated with different content for credit.
Co-op Hours: 64
|
|
1 |
$225.00 |
GRA-949 |
Special Topics
This course provides students with an opportunity to earn credit for specialized study or project under the supervision of a faculty member. The topic of study may not duplicate any topic listed within any active program course. This course can be repeated with different content for credit.
Lecture Hours: 16
|
|
1 |
$254.00 |
MKT-110 |
Principles of Marketing
An overview of the processes, problems and activities associated with the planning and executing the conception, pricing, promotion and distribution of ideas, goods and services to create exchanges.
Lecture Hours: 48
|
|
3 |
$675.00 |
Math Electives
Course |
Note |
Credits |
Cost |
MAT-110 |
Math for Liberal Arts
This is a one semester, liberal arts mathematics course that satisfies the minimum general education requirement for math. The course is designed to impart math skills which are helpful in everyday life as well as to expose students to areas of mathematics they may not have seen before. Topics include problem-solving skills, set theory, algebra, consumer mathematics, probability, and statistics. Other topics may be included.
Lecture Hours: 48
Prerequisite(s): Minimum grade of D- in MAT-060 or MAT-063. Or equivalent placement score.
|
|
3 |
$675.00 |
MAT-121 |
College Algebra
This course provides an intensified study of algebraic techniques and prepares students for future study in mathematics. The central theme is the concept of functions, their properties, graphs and applications. Functions studied include polynomial, rational, exponential, and logarithmic.
Lecture Hours: 64
Prerequisite(s): Minimum grade of C- in MAT-102. Or equivalent placement score.
|
|
4 |
$900.00 |
MAT-128 |
Precalculus
This one-semester pre-calculus course is intended for the student with a solid algebra background who intends to take calculus. It is also beneficial (but not required) for the student to have a background in trigonometry. The course will emphasize functions using an analytical, numerical, and graphical approach. The student will study linear, polynomial, rational, exponential, logarithmic and trigonometric functions along with their applications.
Lecture Hours: 64
Prerequisite(s): Appropriate Placement Test Scores: ACT Math Score of 25 OR Compass Score of 51-100 in the College Algebra Domain or 31-50 in the Trigonometry Domain.
|
|
4 |
$900.00 |
MAT-134 |
Trigonometry and Analytic Geometry
The second course of a two-semester pre-calculus sequence. Topics include trigonometry and applications, vectors, analytic geometry, and polar and parametric equations.
Lecture Hours: 48
Prerequisite(s): Minimum grade of C- in MAT-121. Or equivalent placement score.
|
|
3 |
$675.00 |
MAT-156 |
Statistics
This course is a study of descriptive statistics including graphical representation, central tendency, correlation and regression, intuitive treatment of probability and inferential statistics including hypothesis testing.
Lecture Hours: 48
Prerequisite(s): Minimum grade of C- in MAT-060 or MAT-063. Or equivalent placement score.
|
|
3 |
$675.00 |
MAT-210 |
Calculus I
The first in a calculus sequence, this course covers topics including functions and their graphs, limits, derivatives, applications of the derivative, and integrals.
Lecture Hours: 64
Prerequisite(s): Minimum grade of C- in MAT-128 or MAT-134. Or appropriate placement scores: ACT 27; COMPASS TRIGONOMETRY 51-100.
|
|
4 |
$900.00 |
MAT-216 |
Calculus II
A continuation of MAT-210, this course covers topics including integration techniques, applications of integration, infinite series, conic sections, parametric and polar equations.
Lecture Hours: 64
Prerequisite(s): Minimum grade of C- in MAT-210.
|
|
4 |
$900.00 |
MAT-219 |
Calculus III
This course covers topics including integration and differentiation techniques related to vectors, vector-valued functions, functions of several variables, multiple integration, and vector analysis.
Lecture Hours: 64
Prerequisite(s): Minimum grade of C- in MAT-216
|
|
4 |
$900.00 |
Cost Calculations
The cost calculations are based on 2024–2025 resident tuition, fees, and any additional course fees. These are for informational purposes only and not a guarantee of what you'll be charged.
- Course Cost: The course cost is calculated by multiplying resident tuition and fees per credit hour by the number of credits for the course, then adding any applicable course fees.
- Total Tuition + Course Fees: This is the total tuition and course fees for all courses during the semester. If there are multiple courses that can fulfill the same requirement, we’ll use the first one listed for the calculation.
Additional Costs to Consider
When budgeting for your program, be sure to include the cost of books.
Keep in mind that some programs may have additional expenses, like tools, equipment, supplies, uniforms, exam fees, and background checks. Check with your faculty advisor for more details.