A ten-part course designed to prepare the student to perform specific functions in the graphic design/production field. Topics include: The basics of design, typography, color theory and basic layout; then applying them in the computer disciplines: Adobe InDesign CS4 (page layout); Photoshop CS4 (photo correction, retouching, etc.) and Illustrator CS4 (creating and modifying vector images).

Advanced classes in electronic page layout and print production will round out preparation for jobs in the field. At the start of these classes, an Introduction to MacIntosh computer class is included, for those unfamiliar with the MacIntosh OS X computer system. Prerequisite: General computer knowledge.

Skills developed include, but are not limited to:

InDesign CS4

• Fundamentals and Principles of Page Layout
• Working with Text and Graphics in Page Layout
• Color Management
• Working with Tabs and Tables
• Preflight and Preparation for Printing
• Real-Life Projects - Menus, Mailers and More

Photoshop CS4 Extended

• Editing and Retouching Photos
• Using Layers and Effects
• Using Type and Effects
• Photo Illustration
• Exporting and Using Images in other Programs        

Illustrator CS4

• Drawing Vector Images
• Re-Drawing and Live Tracing Bitmap Images
• Using Gradients, Blends and Patterns
• Using Type and Layers
• Saving and Exporting Images