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Program facts 
Develop a strong foundation in graphic arts web design with this 30-credit-hour certificate program, where you’ll gain the skills needed to design a variety of materials for print and web media. Take beginner-level classes in graphic arts technology, digital imaging, desktop publishing, Internet fundamentals, WordPress and mobile technologies, web multimedia and more.
Work side-by-side with knowledgeable instructors who are skilled professionals in their respective fields. You can also enhance your skills by working in one of Harper College’s three state-of-the-art graphic arts labs.
Build on this certificate by earning an AAS degree in Graphic Arts Design and Technology (Web Design specialization) through additional coursework.
This 30 credit-hour certificate program is designed to provide students with a foundation in skills to design materials for print and Web media. Individuals seeking graphic designer entry-level positions will find these skills helpful. The program introduces graphic design, page layout, print and web graphics, and the software for web and desktop publishing.
| 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 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 120 | Graphic Design I | 3 |
Description: Focuses on beginning fundamentals of graphic design utilizing all design principles and involves an overview of design and layout rendering techniques. Focuses on typography, images and graphics, utilizing design processes (including research and sketching), and current graphic software for print. Projects are critiqued for aesthetics and production for print. Prerequisite: GRA 102 with a grade of C or better. 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 | ||
| WEB 110 | Internet Fundamentals | 3 |
Description: Introduces the fundamental skills and knowledge needed to use the Internet and build basic web pages. Teaches introductory functions of the web, Internet communications and project management concepts. Explores social networking tools and the use of multimedia on the web.Discusses industry career opportunities. Lecture Hours: 2 Lab Hours: 2 Contact Hours: 4 Class Schedule: Spring 2025 | Summer 2025 | Fall 2025 | ||
| WEB 150 | Web Foundations | 3 |
Description: Introduces the foundational skills needed to create web pages utilizing Hyper Text Markup Language (HTML), Cascading Style Sheets (CSS), and an overview of the JavaScript language. Includes web design best practices, web site hosting, Internet protocols, graphics, media and security. Students utilize the skills learned to create a business-oriented web site project. IAI MC 923 Recommended preparation: WEB 110 or CIS 106 or GRA 101 are strongly recommended courses in preparation prior to WEB 150. Lecture Hours: 2 Lab Hours: 2 Contact Hours: 4 Class Schedule: Spring 2025 | Summer 2025 | Fall 2025 | ||
| WEB 170 | Web UX Fundamentals and Prototyping | 3 |
Description: Provides the understanding of UX (user experience) and UI (user interface) fundamentals, and the needs for user research, journey maps, personas, usability testing, and workflow mapping. Emphasizes techniques of sketching to develop digital wireframe to create an interactive prototype of a business-oriented website. Uses current prototyping tools to match industry standards. Prerequisite: WEB 110 or WEB 150 with a grade of C or better, or concurrent enrollment in WEB150. Lecture Hours: 2 Lab Hours: 2 Contact Hours: 4 Class Schedule: Spring 2025 | Summer 2025 | Fall 2025 | ||
| WEB 180 | Web Multimedia | 3 |
Description: Introduces the nature and attributes of motion graphics in this project-based course. Through hands-on activities, students will learn to generate, manipulate and embed still and motion graphics for their website design and other media delivery systems. Prerequisite: WEB 150 with a grade of C or better. Lecture Hours: 2 Lab Hours: 2 Contact Hours: 4 Class Schedule: Spring 2025 | Summer 2025 | Fall 2025 | ||
| Total Hours | 30 | |
Students interested in graphic arts design and technology may also be interested in:
For more information about web design courses at Harper, contact Admission Outreach at 847.925.6700, or submit a request information form. You can also apply online.