Special Topics in Information Science: Visual Design

Program: MSIS/PhD

Course Areas

Human Computer Interaction/UX Design/UX Research

Catalog Description

This mixed-format course consisting of lecture, discussion, and studio will allow students of all experience levels to develop fundamental visual design theory and skills to prepare for careers in information and related fields. Course topics include user interface foundations and design thinking methods. Students will have the opportunity to create multiple projects for their personal portfolios. Students will engage with industry professionals to provide insight about professional careers in design. Student feedback will be collected throughout the course to ensure the curriculum is adding the most value for students.

Instructor Description

In this course, students will learn about the graphic designs role in UX design roles using industry-standard tools, Figma and Adobe Illustrator. This course is meant to engage and push students to think creatively to design and create portfolio-worthy polished designs. Students will learn to craft visually engaging and user-friendly digital experiences. By learning and understanding graphic design principles, including typography, color theory, and layout design, students will develop proficiency in designing and prototyping for a variety of experiences. These skills will be displayed through design exercises and projects.

Prerequisites

Graduate standing.

Restrictions

Enrollment in Information Studies (INF) courses is restricted to graduate students in the School of Information through registration periods 1 and 2, with outside students only being accepted during period 3.

Skills and Knowledge

Proficiency In UX/UI Design Tools

Advanced Graphic Design Techniques

Effective Visual Communication Strategies

Topics and Concepts

UX Graphic Design Principles

Visual Communication

Figma And Adove Illustrator Mastery

Current and Upcoming Classes for this Course

Class Name	Semester	Day(s)	Start Time(s)	End Time(s)	Building	Room
INF 385T: Special Topics in Information Science: Visual Design Kristen Graham Syllabus	Fall Term 2025	Monday	6:00 pm	9:00 pm	UTA	1.210A

Past Classes for this Course

Class Name	Semester	Day(s)	Start Time(s)	End Time(s)	Building	Room
INF 385T: Special Topics in Information Science: Visual Design Kristen Graham Syllabus	Fall Term 2024	Monday	6:00 PM	9:00 PM	UTA	1.210A
INF 385T: Special Topics in Information Science: Visual Design Daniel Kramer Syllabus	Fall Term 2023	Monday	6:00 PM	9:00 PM	WEB
INF 385T: Special Topics in Information Science: Visual Design Daniel Kramer Syllabus	Fall Term 2022	Tuesday	6:30 PM	9:30 PM	UTA	1.208