Jul 06, 2025  
College Catalog 2025-2026 
    
College Catalog 2025-2026
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MACA 1025 - Design 1

Credit Hours: 4.00


Prerequisites: None

(formerly MACA 1020)

Introduction to design concepts. Problems in two-dimensional design using lines and planes in black and white and color.

Billable Contact Hours: 6

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Transfer Possibilities
Michigan Transfer Network (MiTransfer) - Utilize this website to easily search how your credits transfer to colleges and universities.
OUTCOMES AND OBJECTIVES
Outcome 1: Upon completion of this course, students will be able to construct designs using elements of design.

Objectives:

  1. Create lines.
  2. Create shapes.
  3. Create form.
  4. Create space.
  5. Create depth.
  6. Create texture.
  7. Create color.

Outcome 2: Upon completion of this course, students will be able to construct designs using the principles of design.

Objectives:

  1. Create balance.
  2. Create contrast.
  3. Create movement.
  4. Create patterns.
  5. Create rhythm.
  6. Create unity.
  7. Create emphasis.

Outcome 3: Upon completion of this course, students will be able to create using different materials, tools, and equipment.

Objectives:

  1. Use pencils, erasers, markers, tape, inks, adhesives, and other materials.
  2. Use X-acto knife, t-square, ruler, proportion wheel, templates, and other tools.
  3. Use light table, enlarger, projector, mat cutter, and other equipment.

Outcome 4: Upon completion of this course, students will be able to demonstrate professional work habits.

Objectives:

  1. Follow written and verbal instructions.
  2. Meet deadlines and participate in presentations.
  3. Demonstrate craftsmanship and prepare artwork for presentation.

COMMON DEGREE OUTCOMES (CDO)  

  • Communication: The graduate can communicate effectively for the intended purpose and audience.
  • Critical Thinking: The graduate can make informed decisions after analyzing information or evidence related to the issue.
  • Global Literacy: The graduate can analyze human behavior or experiences through cultural, social, political, or economic perspectives.
  • Information Literacy: The graduate can responsibly use information gathered from a variety of formats in order to complete a task.
  • Quantitative Reasoning: The graduate can apply quantitative methods or evidence to solve problems or make judgments.
  • Scientific Literacy: The graduate can produce or interpret scientific information presented in a variety of formats.
CDO marked YES apply to this course:
Communication: YES
Critical Thinking: YES
Global Literacy: YES
Information Literacy: YES
COURSE CONTENT OUTLINE
​​​​​​​Elements of Design - Points, Lines, Space, Repetition, and Pattern

  1. Theory
    1. Fundamentals of Design
    2. Visual Elements: Point, Line, and Space
    3. Pattern, Repetition, and Rhythm
  2. Projects
    1. Line Repetition Exercises
    2. Creative Line Patterns and Compositions
    3. Expressive Points and Lines Research

Elements and Principles of Design - Shapes, Movement, Organization, and Balance

  1. Theory
    1. Visual Elements: Shapes and Planes
    2. Principles of Balance and Movement
    3. Exploring Nōtan: A History and Application
  2. Projects
    1. Black and White Shape Studies
    2. Nōtan-Inspired Compositions

Elements and Principles of Design - Value, Form, Texture, and Depth

  1. Theory
    1. Visual Elements: Value and Texture
    2. Creating Depth with Form and Light
  2. Projects
    1. Value Scale Exercises
    2. Creating Depth and Texture in Portraits

Elements and Principles of Design - Color and Color Theory

  1. Theory
    1. Visual Elements: Color and Color Harmony
    2. The Color Wheel and Josef Albers’ Theories
    3. Creating Depth Using Color
  2. Projects
    1. Mixing Paints and Exploring Color Relationships
    2. Color Theory Triptych

Applying the Elements and Principles of Design

  1. Preparation
    1. Research, Brainstorming, and Thumbnail Sketching
    2. Group Feedback and Iteration
  2. Final Deliverables
    1. Music Festival Poster Design
    2. Reflection and Analysis of Design Choices

Primary Faculty
Sheehan, Deanna
Secondary Faculty
Sarcona, Shaun
Associate Dean
Jewett, Mark
Dean
Hutchison, Donald



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



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