Aug 27, 2025  
Catalog 2025-2026 
    
Catalog 2025-2026

DSGN 117 Typography I

5 credits


Embark on a typographic journey with “Typography 1,” a foundational course designed to immerse you in the art and science of letterforms. This course provides a comprehensive exploration of the history and classification of typography, equipping students with the knowledge to appreciate and utilize type effectively. 

Students will delve into the history and classification of letterforms, understanding the evolution of type styles and their cultural significance. The course also includes practical training in page layout, where you will apply typographic principles to create well-structured and visually engaging documents. Learn to harness the power of typography to enhance readability and aesthetic appeal in various layouts, from print to digital media. 

Prerequisites: ABED 40  or AHSE 56  (or placement into MATH 87  or AHSE 66  or higher) and ABED 46  (or placement into ENGL 93  or higher) 

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

  • Report on the historical development of letterforms and typefaces, including key milestones and influential typographers
  • Classify and differentiate between various types of letterforms and type styles, recognizing their characteristics and appropriate usage
  • Implement fundamental typographic principles, including hierarchy, alignment, and spacing, to create visually cohesive and effective designs
  • Utilize design software to design and layout documents, apply typographic concepts to enhance readability, and to improve visual appeal

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: 70 Theory (Lecture) Hours: 30 Guided Practice (Lab or Clinical) Hours: 40