The Truckee Meadows Community College
Graphic Communications Program
Alongside core classes for non-graphics, there are 6 required fundamental courses and then 17 units of required emphasis courses for the Associate of Applied Science degree. The Certificate of Achievement only differs in that it requires merely 21 units from all of the GRC courses, as a whole. Though prerequisites should still be kept in mind.
Foundational courses are those that teach the basics and prepare you for expanding your knowledge later. These are either prerequisites or, in the case of Portfolio, required eventually but not right away.
GRC 107 - Design Fundamentals
Foundation course in the application and appreciation of the basic principles and elements of design, including form, shape, value and spatial relationships. Emphasis will be placed on developing creative skills and working with the design process. Challenge by portfolio is available.
Term Offered: Spring and Fall Units: 3-4
GRC 109 - Color and Design
Color theories, color technologies and the applications of color in art and design. Intermediate, two-dimensional design problems focusing on the compositional, optical and psychological aspects of visual communication.
Term Offered: Spring and Fall Units: 3-4
GRC 110 - Drawing and Illustration
Foundation course for developing basic skills and techniques in visualizing and rendering images in 2D and 3D presentations. Projects will focus on manual techniques and their applications in print and digital media. Challenge by portfolio is available.
Term Offered: Spring and Fall Units: 4 Transferability: May not transfer towards an NSHE bachelor's degree.
GRC 118 - Computer Graphics/Print Media
Foundation course that introduces computer systems and applications as they relate to graphic communication for print media. Class will present a project-based overview of vector-draw, image manipulation, page layout and electronic publishing software. Challenge exam is available.
Term Offered: Spring and Fall Units: 3-4 Enrollment Requirements: Prerequisite GRC 107 and GRC 109, or approval of instructor.
GRC 119 - Digital Media
Foundation course that introduces computer systems and applications as they relate to graphic communications for digital media. Class will present a project-based overview of content creation, Web design, Web animation, digital video and 3D modeling. Challenge exam is available.
Term Offered: Spring and Fall Units: 3-4 Enrollment Requirements: Prerequisite GRC 107, GRC 109, and GRC 110 or approval of instructor.
GRC 294 - Portfolio Workshop
Development of a portfolio for employment in the graphic communications or digital media or transfer to a four-year program. Class will deal with the professional and legal requirements of working in the graphic communications or digital media industry.
Term Offered: Spring Units: 1-3 Enrollment Requirements: Prerequisite is a minimum of 24 units of GRC classes or approval from instructor. Transferability: May not transfer towards an NSHE bachelor's degree.
