GDSN 200 - Introduction to Desktop Publishing

Credit(s): 4

This course is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to create professional-quality digital publications. By applying fundamental design principles and advanced digital publishing techniques, students will learn to produce a variety of materials, from simple flyers to complex multi-page documents. Through a comprehensive curriculum, students will explore typography, color theory, and layout, master interface and tools, and leverage advanced features like styles, master pages, and color management. Additionally, they will gain hands-on experience in preparing files for print and digital distribution, optimizing for various screen sizes and devices, and creating real-world projects such as magazines, brochures, and interactive digital publications. (Fall Semester)

Course Learning Outcomes: Upon completion of the course, students will be able to

Apply theoretical knowledge of design principles and digital publishing techniques to create innovative and effective visual communications.
Create and produce a variety of professional documents, including flyers, newsletters, brochures, and business cards, using industry-standard software.

Effectively navigate the software interface, utilizing menus, toolbars, and panels to efficiently edit, format, save, and print documents.

Apply typography and design principles, such as font selection, color theory, and layout techniques, to create visually appealing and effective publications.

Utilize advanced digital publishing features, including styles, master pages, and color management, to streamline the design process and maintain consistency across multiple documents.
Create a published product from concept to final product, including print and digital output for various devices and screen sizes