Course Outline of Record

Item	Value
Eff Term	Fall 2026
Curriculum Committee Approval Date	11/14/2025
Top Code	061400 - Digital Media (CTE)
Units	0 Total Units (Lecture Units 0)
Hours	27 Total Hours (Lecture Hours 27)
Total Outside of Class Hours	0
Total Student Learning Hours	27
Course Credit Status	Noncredit (N)
Material Fee	No
Basic Skills	Not Basic Skills (N)
Repeatable	Yes; Repeat Limit 99
Open Entry/Open Exit	No
Grading Policy	P/NP/SP Non-Credit (D),  Letter Non-Credit (L)

Course Description

This course expands upon DMD C010N Visual Design & Illustration Fundamentals by applying formal design principles to more complex visual projects. Students deepen their understanding of hierarchy, alignment, contrast, and unity while integrating raster and vector imagery into cohesive layouts. Through critique, iteration, and guided projects, learners design posters, ads, or social-media campaigns that communicate purposeful messages. Emphasis is placed on creative problem-solving, visual analysis, and preparation for credit-level study in DMD C135 Design Principles. Transfer Credit: Not Transferable.

Course Level Student Learning Outcome(s)

1. Analyze and apply balance, contrast, alignment, repetition, and proximity to create unified compositions.
2. Combine imagery, typography, and graphics into cohesive designs using free digital tools.
3. Refine projects through feedback and self-evaluation to professional readiness.

Course Objectives

• 1. Identify principles in professional examples.
• 2. Plan layouts using grids and hierarchy; evaluate unity and emphasis in peer work.
• 3. Import and adjust bitmap images.
• 4. Generate vector icons or logos.
• 5. Use layers, masks, and effects for visual coherence.
• 6. Use design terminology in critiques.
• 7. Apply feedback to improve visual communication.
• 8. Produce a final portfolio piece.

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Lecture Content

1. Review core design principles and analyze professional examples
2. Hierarchy, alignment, and typographic systems
3. Color harmony, unity, and brand consistency
4. Concept development and visual storytelling
5. Iteration, feedback, and refinement strategies
6. Portfolio presentation, reflection, and pathway bridge

Method(s) of Instruction

• Enhanced NC Lect (NC1)
• Live Online Enhanced NC Lect (NC9)
• Online Enhanced NC Lect (NC5)

Instructional Techniques

A variety of instructional techniques will be employed to encompass different student learning styles. These may include, but are not limited to, lecture, discussion, projects, and small group activities. Instruction will be supplemented, where appropriate, by digital media presentations and resources, guest speakers, and virtual field trips.

Reading Assignments

Complete reading assignments from OER materials, supplemental readings, handouts, Internet resources, and any assignments from Coastline's Library.

Writing Assignments

Create design plans, revision logs, weekly topic responses and critiques.

Out-of-class Assignments

Weekly projects demonstrating skills acquired and develop a self-designed project.

Methods of Student Evaluation

• Short Quizzes
• Written Assignments
• Projects (Individual/Group)
• Problem Solving Exercises
• Skills Demonstration

Demonstration of Critical Thinking

Analyzing audience needs, evaluating design principles, selecting appropriate typographic elements, optimizing layout structures, troubleshooting technical issues, and assessing project effectiveness.

Required Writing, Problem Solving, Skills Demonstration

Create design briefs, audience analyses, and design plans. Demonstrate skills through layout projects, workspace customization, and document creation.

Resources Subscreen

• Other: . . ().
• Other: . . ().

Eligible Discipline(s)

• Graphic arts (desktop publishing): Any bachelor’s degree and two years of professional experience, or any associate degree and six years of professional experience.