GDN - Graphic Design
GDN 3503 Packaging Design (2-2-3)
Students analyse packaging, develop concepts through research and visual exploration, transform concepts into packaging solutions using structures, dielines, and prototypes, and finally adapt and extend their designs in response to changing client requirements.
GDN 3513 Advanced Typography (2-2-3)
This course develops advanced typographic knowledge and decision-making for professional visual communication. Students examine methods for selecting and applying typefaces for bilingual Arabic-Latin communication in UAE professional and government contexts. Through studio-based projects, research, and AI-assisted workflows, students create typographic solutions, evaluate typeface systems for complex communication challenges, and assess the ethical, cultural, commercial, and technological implications of typographic decisions.
Prerequisites: DMP 1203
GDN 3523 Graphic Production (2-2-3)
This course develops students’ skills in print and digital media publication through advanced studio-based practice using Adobe InDesign and Photoshop. Students explore layout design, visual hierarchy, colour theory, image editing, interactive media, and efficient digital workflows to produce impactful print and digital outcomes. The course reinforces Photoshop skills and prepares students to undertake the Adobe Certified Professional (ACP) examination in Visual Design using Adobe Photoshop.
Prerequisites: DMP 2323
GDN 3533 Illustration and Visual Narrative (2-2-3)
This course develops students' techniques in illustration to effectively communicate ideas and engage audiences through various media and formats. Throughout the course, rich dialogue will be fostered surrounding drawing and illustration in the creative industries, providing students with the essential concepts and skills necessary to work effectively in the creative industry.
Prerequisites: DMP 2323
GDN 4703 Information Design (2-2-3)
In this course, students will explore visual systems that convey complex information by integrating notation, visual elements, and creative appealing structural forms like diagrams, graphs, and charts. Students will learn the importance of aesthetics and robust visual communication standards in both analyzing existing designs and crafting new ones. This hybrid course is a combination of faculty-led live online lectures coupled with practical learning through workplace-integrated learning in the apprenticeship. This balanced approach blends theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience.
Prerequisites: DMP 2413
GDN 4716 Industry I (1-20-6)
In this course, students will collaborate with industry partners, gain practical experience, and develop a comprehensive understanding of the complexities and challenges of the graphic design industry in this course. In addition to exploring the company's background, and mastering visual communication strategies, branding, and audience engagement, students will work on-site in an employer's workplace.
Prerequisites: GDN 3523
GDN 4733 Trends in Graphic Design (2-2-3)
In this course, students will research the emerging trends and innovative technologies reshaping the design domain. Students will understand methodologies and techniques for developing content in the latest technology in AI, AR, and VR. Throughout the course, students will draw insights from industry case studies, focusing on the latest industry trends. This hybrid course is a combination of faculty-led live online lectures coupled withpractical learning through workplace-integrated learning in the apprenticeship. This balanced approach blends theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience.
Prerequisites: GDN 3523
GDN 4743 Capstone I (2-2-3)
In response to an organizational or community design need, students will conduct research to explore new and innovative ideas in graphic design. In this course, students will be introduced to a variety of research methods and will gain an understanding of ethical considerations and best practices. Working alone or in teams, students will propose a solution to a complex design problem, and apply design principles, project management, and development tools.
Prerequisites: GDN 3523
GDN 4816 Industry II (1-20-6)
Students in the apprenticeship program gain practical experience and a deep understanding of the challenges faced by the graphic design industry through collaboration with industry partners. Weekly topics cover visual communication, trends in graphic design, branding, and UX/UI design. Students will apply their knowledge of digital media practices to industry-specific situations during this foundational year.
Prerequisites: GDN 4716
GDN 4833 Design Thinking for Visual Communication (2-4-3)
This course addresses four essential design thinking questions while equipping students with tools to facilitate problem-solving. Participants will delve into the Human-Centered Design methodology, gaining insights into its practical applications, with a specific focus on Graphic Design. This hybrid course is a combination of faculty-led live online lectures coupled with practical learning through workplace-integrated learning in the apprenticeship. This balanced approach blends theoretical knowledge with hands-on experience.
Prerequisites: GDN 3533
GDN 4843 Capstone II (2-2-3)
In this course, students develop and implement their innovative project ideas to industry standards based on their research and proposal work from Capstone I. Students will showcase their graphic design skills by applying techniques and principles to industry projects for an identified design brief. Design projects may include branding, photography, advertising, packaging, gaming, and digital design. Students will collaborate with peers and receive feedback from industry professionals to make informed design decisions.
Prerequisites: GDN 4743