Graphic Communications Course Work
GC 1040
Graphic Communications I 1040 described as one that “emphasizes basic graphic arts industry concepts, principles, and practices with laboratory applications in graphic design, digital layout, image capture/manipulation, offset lithography, screen printing, flexography, digital printing variable data, finishing operations and color management.” The course was broken up into thirds during my semester. One third was focusing on screen printing, the second was on flexography, and the final third was a specialty project.
GC 4060
Packaging and Specialty Printing Graphic Communications course 4060 was my favorite class of the major. The course is described as an “In-depth study of the problems and processes for printing and converting in package label and specialty printing industries. Flexographic prepress, workflow, proofing, printing, die making, die cutting, converting, inventory marks, and consumer experience graphics are covered. New developments and trends are explored as well. Laboratory techniques in prepress, printing and converting.” The course premise was that each student was randomly assigned an object and two colors that they were tasked with creating a brand from to work on the entire semester. I was randomly given the object of plant fertilizer and the two colors, orange and green.
Make sure to check out willsninnemann.com to see a detailed explanation of this course! The website linked acted as my technical report for the projects the entire semester.
GC 4400
GC 4400 Commercial Printing is a 4000-level course that applies previous knowledge to large format presses. “Students work from the design conception stage through all aspects of preparation, production, and finishing. Emphasizes understanding and incorporating emerging technologies into the production workflow.” The course began by creating your own “brand,” whether that be a real brand or one that was made up, that you would be working with for the entire semester. I chose to use my own brand of Art by Wills Ninnemann and am pleased with the outcome.
GC 2070
Graphic Communications II GC 2070 is an intermediate course for students that continues the learning process in the major. It has “Emphasis is on theory and problem solving, as well as broadening skills in layout, copy preparation, lithographic and screen-printing presswork. Additional areas of focus include typesetting imposition, basic electronic halftone theory, wide format technology and markets, basic methods for quality control, computer hardware, software, and networks and servers for the graphics industry.”
GC 1020
Introduction to Digital Graphics GC 1020 is where "students learn to develop and produce the basic components needed for self-promotion. Emphasis is placed on strategies relevant to students marketing themselves utilizing current business practices. Students are introduced to various Adobe Creative Cloud software applications and industry standard techniques for producing print and digital media." This course is the first graphic communications course I took after changing my major into the curriculum. Therefore, I was entirely new to the major and the learning style. I knew I enjoyed creating but had little experience with digital design at this point, so I was excited to get my foot in the door in that area.
Wills Ninnemann | Graphic Communications