MACA 1340 - Typography

Credit Hours: 4.00

Prerequisites: MACA 1055, MACA 1200, and MACA 1320

(formerly MACA 1310)

This course presents an introduction to typography. Topics include type evolution, attributes of type, and type family classification. The course explores creative use of type with regard to legibility and readability in design layouts utilizing grids and type in a digital environment.

Contact Hours: 6

South Campus

OUTCOMES AND OBJECTIVES
Outcome 1: Upon completion of this course, students will be able to identify history of typography.

Objectives:

Learn the history of typography.
Explain the importance of and development of type.
Relate advancements of type during different time periods.

Outcome 2: Upon completion of this course, students will be able to identify the physical attributes of type.

Objectives:

Define physical qualities.
Identify structural elements.
Identify type measurements.
Define type terminology.

Outcome 3: Upon completion of this course, students will be able to employ a strategy used in classifying type.

Objectives:

Use appropriate typefaces.
Use appropriate fonts.
Use appropriate type styles.
Use appropriate type family.
Use appropriate modification tools to ensure greatest results.

Outcome 4: Upon completion of this course, students will be able to make use of a grid across multiple designs.

Objectives:

Create a grid.
Evaluate alternative designs to solve proximity issues.
Evaluate alternative grid layouts to solve balance problems.
Evaluate size and shape considerations to solve visual problems.

COMMON DEGREE OUTCOMES
(Bulleted outcomes apply to the course)

1. The graduate can integrate the knowledge and technological skills necessary to be a successful learner.

2. The graduate can demonstrate how to think competently.

3. The graduate can demonstrate how to employ mathematical knowledge.

4. The graduate can demonstrate how to communicate competently.

5. The graduate is sensitive to issues relating to a diverse, global society.

COURSE CONTENT OUTLINE

Type history
Type attributes
Type classification
Kerning and tracking type
Type readability/legibility
Use of a Grid in page layout
Page layout design considerations
Digital type
Mid-Semester Evaluation
Major assignment - expressive type design
Major assignment - expressive type layout
Major assignment - expressive type style layout
Major assignment - expressive type portrait
Major assignment - historic type layout

Primary Faculty
Mellebrand, Kristine
Secondary Faculty
Sarcona, Shaun
Associate Dean
Hinrichsen, Timothy
Dean
Hutchison, Donald

Official Course Syllabus - Macomb Community College, 14500 E 12 Mile Road, Warren, MI 48088