Harper College will be closed on Wednesday, February 12 in observance of Lincoln's Day.
Program facts 
Learn about electronic prepress and become skilled using the latest graphic arts software with this 30-credit-hour certificate program. You’ll take classes in topics such as introduction to graphic arts technology, graphic arts desktop publishing, digital imaging, color management, press operations, digital illustration, WordPress and mobile technologies, web foundations, page layout and prepress production.
In addition to working with knowledgeable instructors who are experts in their fields, you’ll get additional experience sharpening your skills in one of Harper College’s three state-of-the-art graphic arts labs. Each of the labs are equipped with Mac computers and the latest creative software. On-site printing presses give you hands-on experience in all areas of graphic arts production.
Build on this certificate by earning an AAS degree in Graphic Arts Design and Technology (Print Production specialization) through additional coursework.
This 30 credit-hour certificate program is designed for students interested in specializing in electronic prepress highlighting the latest software. This certificate will enhance a student’s current employment position, as well as provide new employment opportunities.
| Number | Course Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Required | ||
| GRA 101 | Introduction to Graphic Arts Technology | 3 |
Description: Provides students an overview of past, present and future graphic arts processes including graphic applications for design/layout, imaging, photography, prepress, print and finishing. Direction is provided on occupations in the Graphic Arts industry and the use of digital applications related to producing print materials. Provides a hands-on understanding of desktop publishing software through lab and lecture. Lecture Hours: 2 Lab Hours: 2 Contact Hours: 4 Class Schedule: Spring 2025 | Summer 2025 | Fall 2025 | ||
| GRA 102 | Graphic Arts Desktop Publishing | 3 |
Description: Presents a clear understanding of graphic desktop software and their many functions in the printing industry. Provides hands-on training using the most current desktop publishing software. Focuses on project work, page layouts and output functions. Prerequisite: Prior or concurrent enrollment in GRA 101. Lecture Hours: 2 Lab Hours: 2 Contact Hours: 4 Class Schedule: Spring 2025 | Summer 2025 | Fall 2025 | ||
| GRA 103 | Digital Imaging I | 3 |
Description: Covers fundamentals of professional image-editing software (Adobe Photoshop). Emphasizes skills to manipulate photos using current software tools and special effects filters. Explores program tools, color correction, channels, layers and masks. Strong computer skills are required for success in this course. Lecture Hours: 2 Lab Hours: 2 Contact Hours: 4 Class Schedule: Spring 2025 | Summer 2025 | Fall 2025 | ||
| GRA 105 | Color Management | 3 |
Description: Examines the fundamentals of real-world color theory and management, throughout the entire graphic arts process. Students will explore all color management techniques of input and output devices as well as tools and concepts for successful color control. Focuses on internal workings and technology in color management systems, building a closed-loop workflow. Covers color fidelity, models, and the understanding on how devices interpret and deliver. Prerequisite: GRA 101 or GRA 103 with a grade of C or better. Lecture Hours: 1 Lab Hours: 4 Contact Hours: 5 Class Schedule: Spring 2025 | Summer 2025 | Fall 2025 | ||
| GRA 111 | Print Media Production | 3 |
Description: Covers fundamentals of offset printing as well as new technologies in the digital print arena. Provides knowledge of press maintenance and safety, feeder systems, registration requirements, ink systems and color management tools and techniques in the print industry. Prior or concurrent enrollment in GRA 101. Lecture Hours: 1 Lab Hours: 4 Contact Hours: 5 Class Schedule: Spring 2025 | Summer 2025 | Fall 2025 | ||
| GRA 112 | Digital Illustration I | 3 |
Description: Presents vector graphics software and its applications to the graphic arts industry. Explores tools and functions within the current software. Focuses on creating illustrations, working with type, color, and all tools needed to create multi-colored illustration and separation. Emphasizes techniques to create illustration files for use in digital print production. Strong computer skills are required for success in this course. Lecture Hours: 2 Lab Hours: 2 Contact Hours: 4 Class Schedule: Spring 2025 | Summer 2025 | Fall 2025 | ||
| GRA 145 | Wordpress and Mobile Technologies | 3 |
Description: Introduces the student to WordPress fundamentals to create basic web pages. Hands-on computer activity includes WordPress templates, dashboard and widget usage; blogging/posts; adding links, videos, photo galleries; creating user accounts; and theme changes. Students will also learn to translate the WordPress full web site into a mobile website and will integrate with social media platforms. An introduction to UI (user interface) design will be explored for mobile applications. Prerequisite: GRA 101 or WEB 110 or WEB 150 with a grade of C or better, or consent of program coordinator. Lecture Hours: 2 Lab Hours: 2 Contact Hours: 4 Class Schedule: Spring 2025 | Summer 2025 | Fall 2025 | ||
| GRA 229 | Page Layout | 3 |
Description: Explores advanced multi-page layout techniques in InDesign software. Projects focus on creating documents that follow industry standards and best practice for print graphics. Emphasis is placed on projects for print and preflighting techniques. Prerequisite: GRA 102 with a grade of C or bxetter. Lecture Hours: 2 Lab Hours: 2 Contact Hours: 4 Class Schedule: Spring 2025 | Summer 2025 | Fall 2025 | ||
| GRA 230 | Prepress and Digital Front End | 3 |
Description: Covers prepress procedures, including preflight and digital front end. Includes standard operating procedures for trapping, barcodes, postal regulations, screening, color separations, step and repeat, RIP, color management, prepress automation, and working with dielines. Real world file preparation, printing methods, ink and color space utilized. Will assess proofing and plating, process control, and quality control. Includes understanding of PDF requirements for file exchange. Prerequisite: Prior or concurrent enrollment in GRA 102. Lecture Hours: 2 Lab Hours: 2 Contact Hours: 4 Class Schedule: Spring 2025 | Summer 2025 | Fall 2025 | ||
| GRA 233 | Integrated Digital Printing | 3 |
Description: This course will explore the digital print market in commercial environments. Wide format and digital presses will be calibrated and analyzed for quality output. Automation and prepress techniques will be reviewed prior to printing to assure quality input. Emphasizes understanding and incorporating emerging technologies into the production workflow. Students work from design and conception through all aspects of preparation, production, and finishing. Recommended to take Prepress and Digital Front End prior to enrolling in this course. Prerequisite: Prior or concurrent enrollment in GRA 101. Lecture Hours: 1 Lab Hours: 4 Contact Hours: 5 Class Schedule: Spring 2025 | Summer 2025 | Fall 2025 | ||
| Total Hours | 30 | |
Students interested in graphic arts technology may also be interested in:
For more information about desktop publishing courses at Harper, contact Admission Outreach at 847.925.6700, or submit a request information form. You can also apply online.