The Bachelor of Arts in Communication Design

Total Course Requirements for the Bachelor's Degree: 120 units

See Bachelor's Degree Requirements in the University Catalog for complete details on general degree requirements. A minimum of 40 units, including those required for the major, must be upper division.

A suggested Major Academic Plan (MAP) has been prepared to help students meet all graduation requirements within four years. You can view MAPs on the Degree MAPs page in the University Catalog or you can request a plan from your major advisor.

General Education Pathway Requirements: 48 units

See General Education in the University Catalog and the Class Schedule for the most current information on General Education Pathway Requirements and course offerings.

Diversity Course Requirements: 6 units

See Diversity Requirements in the University Catalog. Most courses taken to satisfy these requirements may also apply to General Education .

Literacy Requirement:

See Mathematics and Writing Requirements in the University Catalog. Writing proficiency in the major is a graduation requirement and may be demonstrated through satisfactory completion of a course in your major which has been designated as the Writing Proficiency (WP) course for the semester in which you take the course. Students who earn below a C- are required to repeat the course and earn a C- or higher to receive WP credit. See the Class Schedule for the designated WP courses for each semester. You must pass ENGL 130I or JOUR 130I (or equivalent) with a C- or higher before you may register for a WP course.

Course Requirements for the Major: 57-62 units

Completion of the following courses, or their approved transfer equivalents, is required of all candidates for this degree. Additional required courses, depending upon the selected option are outlined following the major core program requirements.

Major Core Program: 15 units

5 courses required:

SUBJ NUM	Title	Sustainable	Units	Semester Offered	Course Flags
CDES 101	Introduction to Communication		3.0	FS
This course is also offered as JOUR 101. This course teaches the concepts, history, and applications of communication. The implications and ethical issues of media and the communication process are covered. 3 hours lecture. (001636)
CDES 102	Principles of Communication Design		3.0	FS
An introductory survey course demonstrating the methods and principles common to the communication design disciplines, including problem-solving, composition, idea generation, and storytelling. 3 hours lecture. (001637)
CDES 206	Introduction to Photography and Digital Imaging		3.0	FS
This course is an introduction to the fundamental vocabulary and techniques of digital photography. Emphasis is placed on developing visual competence in the creation and consumption of lens-based imagery. Course content includes the basics of camera and digital production techniques for color and black and white photographs that are produced as exhibition-quality prints and on-screen imagery. Includes a broad-based survey of photo history, contemporary theory, and current issues related to the practice of photography. Open to non-majors. 2 hours lecture, 3 hours laboratory. (001654)
CDES 303	Communication Criticism		3.0	FS	GW
Prerequisites: ENGL 130 or JOUR 130 (or equivalent) with a grade of C- or higher. Study of various approaches to the critical examination of communication. Application of principles to selected examples. This course is required for all majors in the Department of Communication Design. 2 hours lecture, 2 hours activity. This is an approved Graduation Writing Assessment Requirement course; a grade of C- or higher certifies writing proficiency for majors. (001668)
CDES 307	Technology and Communication		3.0	FS	GE
Students acquire a qualitative understanding of how various information and communication technologies work, the social needs that drive technology developments, and the future impact of new information technologies on work and society. This course is required for all majors in the Department of Communication Design. 3 hours lecture. This is an approved General Education course. (001659)

Major Option Course Requirements: 42-47 units

The following courses, or their approved transfer equivalents, are required dependent upon the option chosen. Students must select one of the following options for completion of the major course requirements.  Use the links below to jump to your chosen option.

• The Option in Graphic Design
• The Option in Mass Communication Design
• The Option in Media Arts

The Option in Graphic Design: 47 units

Laptop Requirement

To complete this program, the student must have the use of a laptop computer. Please consult with the department for current hardware and software requirements. Students qualify to receive special education discounts on computers and software sold through the Associated Students Bookstore (an Apple authorized campus store). For some programs, in an effort to lower student expenses, bundles consisting of a specially priced Apple laptop computer with the program's required software will be made available at the beginning of each academic year through the Associated Students Bookstore. This laptop computer package is expected to serve the student for the entire length of the program.

Pre-Portfolio Courses: 18 units

7 courses required:

Portfolio Requirement

The successful completion of a Portfolio Review is necessary for entry into upper-division Graphic Design course work. The portfolio is comprised of work from ARTS 125, CDES 206, CDES 230, CDES 283, and CDES 284,and is reviewed by Communication Design faculty.

Post-Portfolio Courses: 23 units

8 courses required:

CDES 489 must be taken for 2 units.

Elective Courses: 6 units

2 courses selected from:

SUBJ NUM	Title	Sustainable	Units	Semester Offered	Course Flags
CDES 322	Advanced Web Design		3.0	FS
Prerequisites: CDES 222. Modern Web technologies for the production and publication of Web pages and sites. Production of client-side and server-side dynamic Web pages to accept user input and retrieve information from databases. Style sheets for controlling Web page appearance. 2 hours lecture, 2 hours activity. (001742)
CDES 332	Letterforms		3.0	FS
Prerequisites: CDES 230. Exploration of letterforms; historical through contemporary. Alphabet development and modification for visual communication. Experience with traditional letterform techniques and how they interface with current computer technologies. 2 hours discussion, 2 hours activity. (001669)
CDES 333	Graphic Visualization		3.0	FS
Prerequisites: CDES 230 for CDES majors. Other majors require instructor permission. Study of methods, materials, and techniques used by designers to translate literary or verbal messages into visual terms. Designed to equip students with foundation techniques for interpreting and explaining visual concepts. 2 hours discussion, 2 hours activity. (001671)
CDES 337	Packaging		3.0	SP
Prerequisites: CDES 333, CDES 334. To prepare the student to develop communication methodology for solving experimental packaging problems; to develop two-dimensional and three-dimensional package simulation techniques; to understand the marketing aspects of packaging, technical reproduction methods of packaging, and interface them with the visual media. 2 hours discussion, 2 hours activity. (001682)
CDES 396	Intermediate Photography and Digital Imaging		3.0	FS
Prerequisites: CDES 206 (with a grade of C or higher). This course addresses photographic perception, creative process, and a more thorough investigation of narrative editing practices and techniques related to digital photography. Technical concepts include advanced systems of exposure and digital imaging processing for high-quality digital output. Open to non-majors. 2 hours discussion, 3 hours laboratory. (001737)
CDES 414	Rich Internet Media Design II		3.0	SP
Prerequisites: CDES 314. Project-based course designed to develop the student's ability to function as a multimedia development team member. Emphasis on design and development of multimedia programs for use in education and training, information delivery, and performance support. 3 hours discussion. (001774)
CDES 432	Sustainable Design		3.0	FA
Prerequisites: CDES 334. An introduction to the design of messages, artifacts, and experiences that integrate sustainable practices with graphic design. Students become familiar with the major sustainability principles frameworks and tools by applying them to hands on projects. 2 hours discussion, 2 hours activity. This course requires the use of a laptop computer and appropriate software. (001755)
CDES 435	Corporate Design Systems		3.0	SP
Prerequisites: CDES 333, CDES 334. Analysis, creation, and presentation of identity, branding, and licensing for corporate, government, education, medical, and non-profit organizations. 2 hours discussion, 2 hours activity. (001754)
CDES 436	Motion Design		3.0	SP
Prerequisites: CDES 334. Introduction to time-based information design and kinetic typography, exploring relationships between music and typographic composition for new media. Topics include historical relationships between music and typography, form and space, hierarchy and structure, texture and depth, time and movement. 2 hours discussion, 2 hours activity. This course requires the use of a laptop computer and appropriate software. (001681)
CDES 496	Applied Photography and Digital Imaging		3.0	FS
Prerequisites: CDES 396 with a grade of C or higher or faculty permission. This course addresses the development and execution of a single photography project culminating in a final portfolio. Individual research on historic and contemporary photo-practices is expected. Open to non-majors. 2 hours discussion, 3 hours laboratory. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 6.0 units. (001794)

The Option in Mass Communication Design: 42 units

Students take the Option Core for 21 units and select 21 units of elective courses from the Writing, Technical, and Criticism Groups for a total of 42 units.

Option Core: 21 units

7 courses required:

Writing Group: 3 units

1 course selected from:

Technical Group: 9 units

3 courses selected from:

SUBJ NUM	Title	Sustainable	Units	Semester Offered	Course Flags
CDES 214	Computer Graphics		3.0	FS
An introduction to computer graphics utilizing both PC and Macintosh platforms. Applications for print, video, and training are stressed. 2 hours discussion, 2 hours activity. (001665)
CDES 216	Introduction to Digital Audio in Media		3.0	FS
This course provides a theoretical and practical knowledge of digital audio productions techniques for radio, video, and multimedia. Particular emphasis is placed on audio for video and production strategies for effective communication in audio. 2 hours lecture, 2 hours activity. (001652)
CDES 219	Social Media Technologies		3.0	FS
An exploration of the design and impacts of new technologies related to communication through social media. 3 hours lecture. (001772)
CDES 222	Basic Web Design		3.0	FS
Introduction to hypertext markup language (HTML), Web standards, and the Web publication process. Includes practical exercises in the creation and publication of Web pages and the construction of coherent Web sites. 2 hours discussion, 2 hours activity. (001660)
CDES 272	Media for Instruction and Training		3.0	FS
Prerequisites: CDES 271 or concurrent enrollment or faculty permission. Students taking the course for the Minor in Education should request faculty permission. An introduction to the area of media for instruction and training. The course is divided into three general areas: (1) Hardware; (2) Theory; (3) Application. Students will design and carry out plans for actual use of media in teaching and learning situations. 2 hours discussion, 3 hours laboratory. (001640)
CDES 281	Print Production		3.0	FS
An introductory survey of the printing, publishing, and packaging areas of graphic arts. Systems of digital printing, including inkjet, subliminal dye, dry toner, and liquid ink systems. Emphasis on industry organization and structure, printed products for mass distribution, and methods of graphic arts reproduction. 1 hour lecture, 2 hours discussion. (001650)
CDES 314	Rich Internet Media Design I		3.0	FS
Prerequisite: CDES 222. A study in the design and development of multimedia. Emphasis on conceptualizing multimedia products for use in education and training, information delivery, and performance support. Hands-on skill development in creating digital elements for use in multimedia, such as graphics, audio, and video and combining these elements into interactive programs. 2 hours lecture, 2 hours activity. (001773)
CDES 317	Information and Communication Technologies		3.0	FS
Examines the use of computer systems and technology in expanding and improving traditional communication methods. The role of computers in production and distribution of mass media forms will be studied as well as implications for individualizing information and communication modules with large automated information data bases connected to terminals in the home or office. Telecommunication networks using satellites, fiber-optics, packet switching burst communication transmissions will be explored. 3 hours discussion. (001786)
CDES 366	Field Video Production		3.0	FS
Prerequisites: CDES 226, CDES 261. For APCG majors: APCG 112, CDES 103, CDES 141, CDES 216. Theory and techniques of video production designed to develop skills in all aspects of electronic field video production. The course includes all pre-production, production, and post-production videotape editing elements related to the production of all video programs. 2 hours discussion, 3 hours laboratory. (001720)
CDES 396	Intermediate Photography and Digital Imaging		3.0	FS
Prerequisites: CDES 206 (with a grade of C or higher). This course addresses photographic perception, creative process, and a more thorough investigation of narrative editing practices and techniques related to digital photography. Technical concepts include advanced systems of exposure and digital imaging processing for high-quality digital output. Open to non-majors. 2 hours discussion, 3 hours laboratory. (001737)
CDES 464	Advanced Video Editing		3.0	FS
Prerequisites: CDES 366. Involves complicated and detailed editing of video-based materials using digital and analog linear and nonlinear video editing procedures and techniques. 3 hours discussion. (001758)

Criticism Group: 9 units

3 courses selected from:

The Option in Media Arts: 42 units

Option Core: 24 units

8 courses required:

Writing: 3 units

1 course selected from:

Management: 3 units

1 course selected from:

Note: CDES 469 must be taken for 3 units.

Production: 9 units

3 courses selected from:

SUBJ NUM	Title	Sustainable	Units	Semester Offered	Course Flags
CDES 314	Rich Internet Media Design I		3.0	FS
Prerequisite: CDES 222. A study in the design and development of multimedia. Emphasis on conceptualizing multimedia products for use in education and training, information delivery, and performance support. Hands-on skill development in creating digital elements for use in multimedia, such as graphics, audio, and video and combining these elements into interactive programs. 2 hours lecture, 2 hours activity. (001773)
CDES 342	Documentary Film		3.0	FS
The origins and major movements in the area of the documentary film. The various uses relating to propaganda, social problems, and personal insight. Production motivations in seeking the mass audience through documentary. Open to non-majors. 3 hours discussion. (001683)
CDES 362	Media Performance		3.0	SP
Prerequisites: CDES 103, CDES 216. The skills and techniques of announcing in audio, slide tape, film, and video presentations. Areas covered include copy interpretation and the objective delivery of scripted and ad-lib material in a variety of audio, film, video, and live presentations. 2 hours discussion, 2 hours activity. (001715)
CDES 396	Intermediate Photography and Digital Imaging		3.0	FS
Prerequisites: CDES 206 (with a grade of C or higher). This course addresses photographic perception, creative process, and a more thorough investigation of narrative editing practices and techniques related to digital photography. Technical concepts include advanced systems of exposure and digital imaging processing for high-quality digital output. Open to non-majors. 2 hours discussion, 3 hours laboratory. (001737)
CDES 414	Rich Internet Media Design II		3.0	SP
Prerequisites: CDES 314. Project-based course designed to develop the student's ability to function as a multimedia development team member. Emphasis on design and development of multimedia programs for use in education and training, information delivery, and performance support. 3 hours discussion. (001774)
CDES 462	Digital Video Production		3.0	FS
Prerequisites: CDES 366. This course will focus on the design and creation of television programs used in corporate training, interactive video, and other non-dramatic settings. Students will be responsible for the television producer's functions in planning and supervising the execution of television programs, with emphasis on content, organization, and use of production techniques to secure the intended audience response. 2 hours discussion, 3 hours laboratory. (001768)
CDES 463	Cinematography		3.0	FS
Prerequisite: CDES 366. This course introduces both the theoretical and practical applications of cinematography. Students become attuned to light and shadow, learn basic camera and lighting systems, organization of these systems, and the visual thought process of cinematography. 3 hours discussion. (021045)
CDES 464	Advanced Video Editing		3.0	FS
Prerequisites: CDES 366. Involves complicated and detailed editing of video-based materials using digital and analog linear and nonlinear video editing procedures and techniques. 3 hours discussion. (001758)
CDES 465	Directing for Film & Television		3.0	FS
Prerequisite: CDES 366. This course focuses on the theoretical and aesthetic challenges faced by the director. Strategies for preparing actors, character development and casting are addressed and workshops provide students with practical experience in staging dramatic narrative scenes. Students further their visual skills and learn to shape and craft screen performances by gaining a thorough understanding of the actor's language and technique. 3 hours discussion. (021044)
CDES 466	Studio Video Production		3.0	FS
Prerequisites: CDES 366. Theory and techniques of color video production designed to develop skills in all aspects of video production. This course includes pre-production and production elements related to the production of all video programs. 2 hours discussion, 3 hours laboratory. (001719)
CDES 468	Video Production Workshop		3.0	FA
Prerequisites: CDES 366. Selected video production projects involving advanced techniques not covered in other production courses, including integration of other media forms into complete video programs. 2 hours discussion, 3 hours laboratory. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 6.0 units. (001759)
CDES 496	Applied Photography and Digital Imaging		3.0	FS
Prerequisites: CDES 396 with a grade of C or higher or faculty permission. This course addresses the development and execution of a single photography project culminating in a final portfolio. Individual research on historic and contemporary photo-practices is expected. Open to non-majors. 2 hours discussion, 3 hours laboratory. You may take this course more than once for a maximum of 6.0 units. (001794)

Capstone: 3 units

1 course required:

Electives Requirement:

To complete the total units required for the bachelor's degree, select additional elective courses from the total University offerings. You should consult with an advisor regarding the selection of courses which will provide breadth to your University experience and possibly apply to a supportive second major or minor.

Grading Requirement:

All courses taken to fulfill major course requirements must be taken for a letter grade except those courses specified by the department as Credit/No Credit grading only.

Advising Requirement:

Advising is mandatory for all majors in this degree program. Consult your undergraduate advisor for specific information.

Honors in the Major:

Honors in the Major is a program of independent work in your major. It requires 6 units of honors course work completed over two semesters.

The Honors in the Major program allows you to work closely with a faculty mentor in your area of interest on an original performance or research project. This year-long collaboration allows you to work in your field at a professional level and culminates in a public presentation of your work. Students sometimes take their projects beyond the University for submission in professional journals, presentation at conferences, or academic competition. Such experience is valuable for graduate school and professional life. Your honors work will be recognized at your graduation, on your permanent transcripts, and on your diploma. It is often accompanied by letters of commendation from your mentor in the department or the department chair.

Some common features of Honors in the Major program are:

1. You must take 6 units of Honors in the Major course work. All 6 units are honors classes (marked by a suffix of H), and at least 3 of these units are independent study (399H, 499H, 599H) as specified by your department. You must complete each class with a minimum grade of B.
2. You must have completed 9 units of upper-division course work or 21 overall units in your major before you can be admitted to Honors in the Major. Check the requirements for your major carefully, as there may be specific courses that must be included in these units.
3. Your cumulative GPA should be at least 3.5 or within the top 5% of majors in your department.
4. Your GPA in your major should be at least 3.5 or within the top 5% of majors in your department.
5. Most students apply for or are invited to participate in Honors in the Major during the second semester of their junior year. Then they complete the 6 units of course work over the two semesters of their senior year.
6. Your honors work culminates with a public presentation of your honors project.

While Honors in the Major is part of the Honors Program, each department administers its own program. Please contact your major department or major advisor to apply.

Students may apply for admission to the Honors in the Major Program in the College of Communication and Education. In addition to other specific requirements, each Honors student will conduct and publicly present an original research project. Consult the honors advisor in the College of Communication and Education for specific details.