The Graphic Design (with optional concentrations in Animation and Game Art) major prepares students to be active participants in our increasingly visual culture.
Through a robust, scaffolded exploration of the principles of design, graphic design students develop the skills necessary to create professional-quality projects by the time they graduate; whether designing websites, creating marketing or public service campaigns, producing animations, modeling 3D characters or working on personal projects, students leave Whittier with a portfolio that demonstrates preparedness. Production-based courses are balanced with courses that critically analyze the personal, cultural, and political influences of visual media.
Students learn the programs and principles necessary to create effective designs; they study typography, color-theory, drawing and design history. They create logos, infographics, advertising campaigns, websites, books, etc.
Graphic Design students at Whittier are interested in the ways visual communication can impact society. They are students engaged with contemporary art and culture, media and entertainment design, and social justice. After graduation, they work at ad and design firms and as in-house designers at a wide range of companies.
What You'll Learn, See, and Do as a Graphic Design Major
- learn to create dynamic graphics for use in everything from street-wear brands to advertising
- learn how to create logos and brand designs that effectively communicate the company’s identity
- work with a local business to rebrand their identity
- visit a local printer to learn about various printing processes
Sample Courses in Graphic Design
Game Art 1
A new class that focuses on computer generated 3D modeling with a focus on creating art for video games and animations. In this hands-on class, students learn the fundamentals of 3D modeling and explore the basics of character design and creation.
Experimental Typography
Challenges students to communicate issues of social, cultural, and political relevance through poster design. They create their own letterforms and images through drawing, printing, projection and collage processes while learning to use various Adobe programs. The class simultaneously covers the history of protest art.
Whatcha Mean Whatsa Zine?
Explores the art of self-published books and magazines, also known as ‘zines.’ Students learn the punk-rock and political roots of zine-making. In this fast-paced studio course, students will generate imagery and writing to create their own books and personal zines. They will learn about book-binding, printmaking and the power of self-expression. Students will gain skills in page layout, 2D composition and develop unique tactics for self-promotion. Through field trips and guest lectures, students will gain access to LA’s vibrant independent art scene. All forms of creativity are welcome!
