Faculty Syllabus

Pre-Requisite: None

COURSE DESCRIPTION
A study and use of vector graphics for production. Skill development in the use of the tools and transformation options of Adobe
Illustrator to create complex vector illustrations for print and web-based media. Mastery in manipulation of both text and graphics with
emphasis on the use of the pen tool as well as the correct use and management of different color modes.

COURSE RATIONALE/OBJECTIVES
Vector Graphics for Production is an entry-level Adobe Illustrator based course where students will learn the software skills to create
vector graphics for print and web projects. Students learn to communicate through their visual solutions to the projects. Students will
learn to solve visual problems using vector art, giving them an important additional skill when they become entry-level designers.
Additionally they learn to exchange ideas, approximating a real-world working atmosphere.

Required Text and Materials
Adobe Illustrator CC (2026 release) Classroom in a Book by Adobe Press
Note: Adobe Press has a web edition of the textbook that includes interactive features like videos and quizzes.

Library Resource Centers

Review Print Magazine, Communication Arts Magazine, Photoshop User Magazine and others. In addition, the library has stock photo files. See this URL for Library services for the Visual Communication Dept: http://researchguides.austincc.edu/viscom

Four major projects will be assigned
Each Project’s skills are based upon a Competency that will be measured using the following criteria: use of required features, accuracy
in production, mastery of software, exploration/experimentation and presentation/project submission.  Grade sheets detail exactly how your projects will be graded and are posted in Blackboard for your review before you begin the project. Deadlines are announced in Blackboard.

• Competency 1 – Family of Icons / Project 1
  • Create simple illustrations with basic tools.
• Competency 2 – Austin Symphony Orchestra Flier / Project 2
  • Create a 2-color promotional flier using type tools and image trace.
• Competency 3 – WPA Poster Recreation / Project 3
  • Plan, structure and recreate a complex illustration.
• Competency 4 – Big Letter Greeting Card / Project 4
  • Create an illustration using 3D effects and raster images.

STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOMES

For this course and for the three VISCOM Degrees / Certificates Vector Graphics Student Learning Outcomes. Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

• Identify the capabilities and functions of drawing, transformation and shape tools in Adobe Illustrator.
• Demonstrate skills in the use of vector specific capabilities for typesetting.
• Show efficient planning and file organization techniques.
• Apply conceptual planning techniques in the development of graphic design pieces.
• Analyze production problems encountered and recommend solutions.
• Apply skills in the combination of raster and vector elements to create design work.
• Distinguish between, and correctly apply, the various color models for print and web-based projects.
• Demonstrate knowledge of advanced tools in Adobe Illustrator such as custom patterns, clipping paths, symbols, graphic styles and various effects including 3D.
• Decide when vector graphics will be the appropriate solution for a specific graphic design project.

What you’ll learn to do by the end of the Graphic Design Program:

• Tools and Techniques: Students will effectively choose software, methods, and techniques to create deliverables for print and/or digital media.
• Design Process: Students will select the most effective design processes and methods to meet project needs.
• Professionalism: Students will demonstrate effective communication and collaboration skills to stakeholders, clients, and peers.
• Critical Thinking: Students will analyze project goals to recommend effective design concepts and solutions to visual communication clients.
• Design Principles: Students will demonstrate proficiency in applying the elements and principles of graphic design.

What you’ll learn to do by the end of the Graphic Media Production Program:

• Tools and Techniques: Students will effectively choose software, methods, and techniques to create deliverables for print and/or digital media.
• Production Principles: Students will apply a variety of skills, methods, and technologies to produce efficient and accurate final output files for print and/or digital media.
• Professionalism: Students will demonstrate effective communication and collaboration skills to stakeholders, clients, and peers.
• Critical Thinking: Students will analyze project goals to recommend effective production solutions to visual communication clients.