You'll explore the evolution of visual communication from ancient times to the digital age. The course covers major art movements, influential designers, and technological advancements that shaped graphic design. You'll analyze iconic logos, posters, and typography, understanding how historical and cultural contexts influenced design trends and techniques.

Is History of Graphic Design hard?

It's not typically considered a tough class, but it does require some effort. There's a lot of visual analysis and memorization of key designers, movements, and dates. The workload usually involves reading, writing papers, and maybe creating some design projects. If you're into art or design, you'll probably find it pretty interesting and not too challenging.

Tips for taking History of Graphic Design in college

Use Fiveable Study Guides to help you cram 🌶️
Create visual timelines to organize design movements and key figures
Make flashcards with designer names and their notable works
Watch documentaries like "Helvetica" or "The Visual Language of Herbert Matter"
Visit local design museums or exhibitions to see historical pieces up close
Join study groups to discuss and analyze famous designs together
Practice identifying design styles from different eras
Read design blogs to connect historical concepts with modern applications

Common pre-requisites for History of Graphic Design

Introduction to Art History: This course provides a broad overview of art movements and styles throughout history. It helps build a foundation for understanding the context of graphic design evolution.
Basic Design Principles: This class covers fundamental concepts like color theory, composition, and typography. It gives you a practical understanding of design elements that you'll encounter in graphic design history.

Classes similar to History of Graphic Design

History of Photography: Explores the development of photography as an art form and communication medium. You'll learn about influential photographers and how the medium evolved alongside graphic design.
Typography History and Theory: Focuses on the evolution of letterforms and their role in communication. You'll study typeface designers and how typography has shaped visual culture.
History of Advertising: Examines the development of advertising techniques and strategies over time. You'll analyze iconic ad campaigns and their cultural impact.
Digital Media History: Covers the emergence and evolution of digital design tools and platforms. You'll learn how technology has transformed graphic design practices and aesthetics.

Graphic Design: Focuses on creating visual content for various media, combining art and technology to communicate ideas. Students learn design software, typography, and branding strategies.
Art History: Involves studying the development of visual arts throughout human history. Students analyze artworks, cultural contexts, and theoretical frameworks.
Visual Communication: Emphasizes the use of imagery, typography, and motion graphics to convey messages. Students explore both traditional and digital media for effective communication.
Media Studies: Examines the impact of various media forms on society and culture. Students analyze film, television, social media, and other communication platforms.

What can you do with a degree in History of Graphic Design?

Design Curator: Works in museums or galleries to organize and present design exhibitions. They research historical design pieces and create engaging displays for the public.
Design Researcher: Conducts in-depth studies on design trends, user behavior, and market needs. They often work for design firms or tech companies to inform product development.
Brand Historian: Specializes in preserving and promoting a company's design legacy. They manage archives, create historical content, and ensure brand consistency over time.
Design Educator: Teaches graphic design history and principles at colleges or design schools. They develop curriculum, lead discussions, and inspire future designers with historical knowledge.