Graphic Design I: Typography

3 Credits · Level: Undergraduate

This course provides a concentrated exploration of typography as a formal, historical, and communicative system. Emphasis is placed on letterforms, typographic structure, legibility versus readability, type classifications, font usage, grid systems, and sequential design. Instruction extends beyond basic software operation to include typographic research, iterative refinement, and advanced composition. Assignments may include multi-level hierarchy studies, expressive and functional typographic compositions, modular and grid-based systems, and extended text layouts that explore more complex issues of spatial relationships, hierarchy, contrast, and scale. Critical analysis of historical and contemporary typographic practices is integrated throughout the course. Through sustained projects and critique, students develop typographic precision and complex typographic solutions appropriate for graphic design coursework. This course is designed for all skill levels from beginners to those looking to expand upon their Graphic Design practice.