BUS 267 - Graphic Design: Typography and Layout

Credits: 1-5
The Graphic Design: Typography and Layout course explores the discipline of graphic design with a focus on layout and typography. Emphasis is placed on page design, and developing an understanding of the aesthetic and voice of type. Practice includes the creation of page layout and experimentation with color and composition.
Course Outcomes:

Identify and describe typefaces, their classifications, and the historical, cultural, and accessibility considerations that shape letterforms and typographic design.
Explain how typographic and layout choices support clarity, tone, accessibility, and audience engagement in visual communication.
Apply design principles-such as hierarchy, spacing, color, contrast, and grid systems-to create balanced, readable, and accessible typographic layouts.
Develop design concepts through an iterative process that includes research, sketches, user and accessibility testing, and refined digital compositions.
Combine typography, imagery, and layout techniques to produce purposeful, accessible design solutions that meet defined goals.
Articulate design decisions and accessibility strategies through visual and verbal critiques using appropriate design vocabulary.

Last Updated:
03/20/2026
Course Topics:

The evolution of typography
Type structure and mechanics
Purposeful and effective typeface selection
Communicating tone and emotion through type
Balance and visual problem solving
Layout fundamentals
Accessibility: readability, contrast, hierarchy, and accessible design
Spacing, alignment, and margins
Figure and ground
Setting up and breaking layout grids

LEC Credits: 5
LEC hours per week: 5
Course Attribute(s): None
OEE Permitted: Yes
Grading Basis: Graded
Instructor/Department Consent Required: No Consent
CIP Code: 50.0409
Default Section Size/Cap: 25
Quarter(s) offered:

Spring