DEG 404: Special Topics II
Develop a multi-faceted project to fuel your creative goals
In this second individualized course, you will research, develop, and present projects that support your portfolio and career goals. You will develop a project plan with your instructor, then fulfill it as you continue to analyze, evaluate, and synthesize design theories and integrate them into your well-considered and compelling project(s). Your class grade will be based not only on the quality of your work but also on your ability to meet deadlines, effectively finalize your designs, and present your work.
Visit the Student Gallery.
About This Course
Project-Based Learning
Students will undertake a multi-faceted design project during the course of the semester. Students can develop a portfolio project that meets their portfolio needs, engage in a passion project that is complementary to their portfolio, or select one of three trending design projects.
What Skills Will I Develop?
Students in this course can expect to learn to:
- Analyze, evaluate, and synthesize design industry trends and artistic styles when exploring and researching the work of graphic designers and other creatives.
- Professionally present research and creative concepts in alignment with the course content, creative brief, project criteria/expectations, and presentation guidelines.
- Actively and professionally participate in class discussions/meetings, constructively assess the work of your peers, and enhance your creative work based upon feedback.
- Demonstrate effective and efficient use of your digital and traditional design and sketching skills, and other image making skills to create quality portfolio ready pieces.
- Effectively conceptualize, create, finalize, and present a multi-faceted design project based upon research, with consideration of the following (where applicable): industry trends, strategic marketing strategies, effective use of social media and other promotional venues, production planning with consideration for design principles such as composition, layout, color, and typography.
- Apply and demonstrate technically proficient digital illustration/image making/page layout skills utilizing appropriate software such as Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign.
What Software and Supplies Do I Need?
- Computer with Internet connection.
- Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign CC.
Course Instructor(s)
The course is taught by the following instructor(s):
Dr. Tamara Pavlock
Dr. Tamara Pavlock is dedicated to inspiring learning, art and creative thinking, and student success. Tamara has over 20 years of experience as an Art, Graphic Design and Education Instructor, Higher Education Department Director and Associate Dean, Creative Director, Print and Production Specialist.
Dr. Meryl Epstein
Dr. Meryl P. Epstein is the Dean of Academic Affairs for Sessions College. Meryl has extensive experience in design, education, and leading academic teams and has served as Dean of Academic Affairs, Program Chair, Doctoral Development Faculty, Art Director, Graphic Design Manager, Faculty member, and Exhibiting Artist/Photographer.
Course Outline
What Direction to Pursue?
We'll explore potential directions to consider when deciding what project to produce during this course.
Industry Trends
Let’s examine current industry trends as well as what futurists are predicting. Then how to connect this information to your career path and preparation.
Design Niches
Let's consider potential niches in the design field and see which options are aligned with your professional and creative goals.
Remaining Resilient
We'll discuss what psychological tools a professional needs to remain resilient in order to continue to move forward even when facing challenges.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How Do The Courses Work?
Our courses are project-based and instructor-led. In each course you’ll complete a series of lectures, projects, discussions, and critiques designed to stretch your creative skills. Weekly assignment deadlines keep you on track, so you can build your studies around your schedule. Two live Zoom meetings in this course provide the opportunity to work 1to1 with your instructor.
Who Are The Instructors?
Our courses are developed and taught by our industry-leading faculty of creative professionals. This means that you’ll learn in-demand skills, get feedback on your work, and build a portfolio of creative work. View our Student Gallery for featured student projects.
When Can I Start?
Classes start January, April, and August, and this course is completed in a 15-week term. This course is part of a Bachelor's Degree program at Sessions College. You can enroll in this course on an individual basis or as part of a program.
How Do I Register?
To register for a program, complete our program application. To register for this course on an individual basis, please contact our admissions team at admissions@sessions.edu. An Admissions Advisor will contact you to setup your enrollment.
| Course Tuition and Fees | |
|---|---|
| Tuition | $300/credit |
| Registration Fee* | $200 |
| Total Course Price | $1100 |
Registration fees are nonrefundable after 5 days from enrollment.
Is Sessions College Accredited?
Yes. Since 2001, Sessions College has been accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC). The Distance Education Accrediting Commission is listed by the U.S. Department of Education as a recognized accrediting agency and is recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).