DSGN 117 Typography

4 credits

This course covers typographic fundamentals, type history, and design considerations when working with type for print and screen based devices. Topics include type categories, kerning and spacing, type anatomy, hierarchy and grids, concordant, conflicting and contrasting type styles, type identification strategies, type rules, and font purchasing. Major historical and contemporary figures, written resources and trends of typographic design will be discussed.

Prerequisites: ART 102 and ART 121

Corequisites: DSGN 121 and DSGN 126

Course Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course students will be able to:

Demonstrate knowledge of basic type principles and type history
Analyze type considerations for print publications and screen-based devices, including legibility and readability
Identify basic typeface categories
Demonstrate knowledge of professional type practices through projects and exercises
Define the differences of concordant, conflicting and contrasting type and demonstrate best practices when selecting and using these combinations
Respectfully present, defend, and critique design choices in a group setting

Program Outcomes
This course teaches to the following program outcomes:

describe the historical significance and current design standards for typographic design, and effectively use type in print and screen-based publications
prepare project deliverables for commercially printed materials, interactive documents and ePublications

Total Hours: 60 Theory (Lecture) Hours: 20 Guided Practice (Lab or Clinical) Hours: 40