https://courses.vccs.edu/colleges/vhcc/courses/ART180-ComputerGraphicTechniques

Effective: 2026-05-01

Course Description

Provides a working introduction to computer-based electronic technology used by visual artists and designers. Presents the basics of operating platforms and standard industry software. Introduces problems in which students can creatively solve using standard computer graphic applications.
Lecture 2 hours. Laboratory 3 hours. Total 5 hours per week.
3 credits

The course outline below was developed as part of a statewide standardization process.

General Course Purpose

Computer Graphic Techniques is a basic course through which students can become comfortable digitally manipulating images and creating digital works in industry standard digital design applications.

Course Objectives

  • Critical Thinking
    • Explain the primary use of each software application according to the digital design function.
    • Utilize the primary features in each application to create digital works.
    • Compare and contrast various file types, use cases, benefits, and limitations.
  • Professional Readiness
    • Collaboratively create a digital artifact via teamwork and critique.
    • Recognize key components of various industry standard digital design tool interfaces.
    • Create accessible documents that follow applicable federal guidelines.

Major Topics to be Included

  • Professional Photo Editing and Digital Art (software application should be industry standard)
    • Create/save files
    • Differentiate between vector and raster file types
    • Use presets and/or templates for print and web purposes
    • Apply filters and effects
    • Use and create brushes
    • Use adjustment layers
    • Apply layer masks
    • Use guides
    • Apply Colors/Type/Shapes/Symbols/Graphs/3D Tools
    • Transform Objects
    • Work with Layers/Arrange Feature
    • Place/Open/Edit Images
    • Create/Save/Play Actions
    • Use Selection Tools
    • Create an original composite using various tools and techniques
    • Give and receive peer feedback (critique)
  • Professional Design of Scalable Graphics (software application should be industry standard
    • Apply Color Theory
    • Create/save files
    • Apply live trace
    • Organize files through the use of layers.
    • Use guides
    • Apply Colors/Type/Shapes/Symbols/Graphs/3D Tools
    • Transform Objects
    • Work with Layers/Arrange Feature
    • Place/Open/Edit Images
    • Use Selection Tools
  • Desktop Publishing and Page Layout (software application should be industry standard)
    • Create/save files
    • Accessibility considerations
    • Use pages, parent pages and stylesheets
    • Insert page numbers and hyperlinks
    • Use guides
    • Apply Colors/Type/Shapes/Symbols/Graphs/3D Tools
    • Transform Objects
    • Work with Layers/Arrange Feature
    • Place/Open/Edit Images
    • Use Selection Tools