Graphic Communication

GCM 110 - Introduction to Graphic Communications
Course DescriptionThis course introduces students to graphic communications manufacturing processes with emphasis on the variety of methods available, and their application. Subject matter includes design, copy preparation, premedia, proofing, materials, various printing processes, post-press, health and safety, sustainability, and accessibility considerations. Students learn about the global and Canadian impact of the print industry.
Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
GPA Weight:1.00
Billing Units:1
Count:1.00
GCM 111 - Graphic Communication Technologies
Course DescriptionThis course offers an in-depth examination of the technologies and processes used to design, process, print and output jobs for a variety of end-use applications. Subject matter includes image capture and manipulation, file formats and resolutions, screening, premedia considerations, plate output, and conventional and digital printing processes, systems, and equipment. Students also learn about related non-print media output applications.
Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
GPA Weight:1.00
Billing Units:1
Count:1.00
Prerequisites:GCM 110 or GRA 652
GCM 120 - Graphic Communications Processes 1
Course DescriptionThis introductory lab-based course provides students with an experiential overview of the complete graphic communications process. Projects will explore concept and design, premedia, printing, and binding and finishing. Projects include one and two-colour printing, such as business cards, labels, notepads, greeting cards, and design and production of related web pages, social media sites and epub tablet publishing. Basic press functions and controls will be explored through the use of printing presses and press simulators. Basic bindery operations such as cutting and trimming are introduced. Students will use industry standard tools and techniques to learn the importance of job planning, basic production workflows, correction loops and will develop an appreciation of the requirements of each process.
Weekly Contact:Lab 3 hrs.
GPA Weight:1.00
Billing Units:1
Count:1.00
GCM 121 - Graphic Communications Processes 2
Course DescriptionThis lab-based course builds on the experiences of GCM 120 to provide students with an experiential overview of the complete graphic communications process. Projects will explore concept and design, image capture, premedia, printing, binding and finishing and output to tablet and online formats. Projects include one and two-colour offset, flexographic and digital printing jobs, including wide-format, of student-designed work, and design and production of related web pages and epub tablet publishing. Printing presses and simulators are employed with a focus on troubleshooting. Students will develop a more detailed understanding of production workflows, with focus on attention to detail and process documentation. Additional bindery operations, including drilling and padding are introduced.
Weekly Contact:Lab 3 hrs.
GPA Weight:1.00
Billing Units:1
Count:1.00
Prerequisites:GCM 120
GCM 130 - Design and Layout
Course DescriptionSuccessful design involves more than meets the eye! Students learn how to interpret a design brief, how to work with a client to create a design that fulfills client specifications, and how to prepare a design that will adhere to output requirements. An emphasis is placed on solving problems in design, and the principles of design, including accessibility. The course introduces students to the principles of design, as practiced by graphic designers, advertising and marketing organizations and members of the printing industries. Students learn how to communicate with designers, and the steps necessary to execute a successful design project from design briefs to fulfillment of client expectations.
Weekly Contact:Lecture 1.5 hrs. Lab 1.5 hrs.
GPA Weight:1.00
Billing Units:1
Count:1.00
GCM 210 - Consumer Packaging
Course DescriptionThis course covers the fundamentals of consumer product packaging, including package printing and manufacturing. Students develop an understanding of the many aspects that are needed to create successful packaging. Topics include functions of packaging, materials and printing processes used, end use and quality considerations, sustainability, as well as package manufacturing, optimization, logistics and the role of converters. Legal and accessibility issues related to packaging are discussed.
Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
GPA Weight:1.00
Billing Units:1
Count:1.00
GCM 220 - Graphic Communication Processes 3
Course DescriptionIn this lab-based course, students will explore halftone and four-colour printing by producing traditional printed and digital outputs such as tablet and online media. Through project-based learning, students will use graphic communications concepts to carry out a communication campaign. Students will develop graphic communication products with consideration of client and end-user requirements, with the expectation that they will demonstrate an appropriate intermediate level of technical expertise. Technologies used include offset, flexographic and digital presses. Finishing technologies including mechanical binding and laminating are used. Students will use printing press simulators and presses to identify and correct press problems.
Weekly Contact:Lab 3 hrs.
GPA Weight:1.00
Billing Units:1
Count:1.00
Prerequisites:GCM 121
GCM 230 - Typography
Course DescriptionThe course explores the relationships between type designers, type foundries and end users. This course concentrates on typographic history and classification, as well as the creation, marketing and use of typefaces in professional applications for both printed and non-printed output. Students also learn how typographic choices made by the designer can enhance or reduce the appeal and accessibility of a document. Editing and proofreading of documents is also emphasized.
Weekly Contact:Lecture 1.5 hrs. Lab 1.5 hrs.
GPA Weight:1.00
Billing Units:1
Count:1.00
Prerequisites:GCM 130
GCM 240 - Material Science for Print
Course DescriptionThis course introduces students to the science of materials, including paper, ink, toners and other materials used in the printing industry. Tests are conducted for printability, runability and end-use properties. Students learn how to interpret observations and raw data, and through various testing protocols, learn how to meaningfully report results, and make evidence-based recommendations. Students learn how to collaborate with clients, designers and printers to select the best materials for a printing project.
Weekly Contact:Lecture 1 hr. Lab 2 hrs.
GPA Weight:1.00
Billing Units:1
Count:1.00
Prerequisites:GCM 121
GCM 250 - Binding and Finishing
Course DescriptionStudents develop a theoretical and practical understanding of binding and finishing processes employed in the graphic communications industry. Students learn about various types of industrial binding and finishing techniques, and equipment required for each. The focus of this course is primarily on the post press processes of folding, stitching and adhesive binding.
Weekly Contact:Lecture 1.5 hrs. Lab 1.5 hrs.
GPA Weight:1.00
Billing Units:1
Count:1.00
Prerequisites:GCM 121
GCM 260 - Digital Premedia Workflows
Course DescriptionThis course introduces students to industry standard digital workflow solutions used for premedia production. Students learn the fundamentals of premedia workflow solutions, including but not limited to RIP technologies and in-RIP functionalities such as imposition and trapping. In the lab, students will process premedia files for various output conditions including offset printing, flexography and digital printing.
Weekly Contact:Lecture 1.5 hrs. Lab 1.5 hrs.
GPA Weight:1.00
Billing Units:1
Count:1.00
Prerequisites:GCM 230
GCM 320 - Digital and Variable Data Printing
Course DescriptionEstablished and emerging digital printing technologies are examined in detail, with a focus on technological characteristics and optimal applications of each. The role and position of digital printing technologies in the printing industry is a main theme. Applications of digital printing technologies in regards to variable data printing, web-to-print processes and production workflows are main topics of discussion. Students learn data management practices, including data scrubbing and cleansing.
Weekly Contact:Lecture 1.5 hrs. Lab 1.5 hrs.
GPA Weight:1.00
Billing Units:1
Count:1.00
Prerequisites:GCM 220 and GCM 260
GCM 350 - Estimating and Selling for Graphic Communications
Course DescriptionThis course introduces cost estimating and selling practices for a wide variety of print and digital products and services. Estimating principles, the development of cost rates and the role of the estimator are covered. A hands-on approach is used for applying budgeted hourly rates, manufacturing standards, material costs and calculations to produce accurate and efficient estimates. Students generate estimates for sheetfed lithography, flexography and digital printing, including variable data and print on demand products. The estimating of digital (online, mobile and e-book) technologies is also covered using modern estimating software. This course introduces the role of the sales representative in the graphic communications industry and provides an overview of the selling process.
Weekly Contact:Lecture 1 hr. Lab 2 hrs.
GPA Weight:1.00
Billing Units:1
Count:1.00
Prerequisites:GCM 110
GCM 360 - Colour Management for Graphic Communications
Course DescriptionStudents are introduced to colour management and its effect on accurate image capture, job files, monitor previews, proofs, and prints across all devices used in graphic communication workflows. Current "open-system" colour strategies are compared to traditional "closed-loop" colour systems. Students optimize and calibrate devices prior to profiling, as well as create and implement ICC profiles for a variety of uses. Colour management specifications including SNAP, GRACoL, and SWOP will be discussed in detail.
Weekly Contact:Lecture 1.5 hrs. Lab 1.5 hrs.
GPA Weight:1.00
Billing Units:1
Count:1.00
Prerequisites:GCM 260
GCM 362 - Web and Cross Media
Course DescriptionThis course introduces students to web design and multimedia applications as they relate to cross-media and multi-channel marketing. Students learn how to properly construct files not only for print, but also for interactive PDF, eBooks, tablet publishing, and web sites. Students learn the role of social media in cross-channel marketing campaigns, and learn responsive design principles that transcend media and platform limitations.
Weekly Contact:Lab 3 hrs.
GPA Weight:1.00
Billing Units:1
Count:1.00
Prerequisites:GCM 110 and GCM 230
GCM 370 - Management Studies
Course DescriptionTo further prepare students for leadership roles in the business environment, this course explores topics related to organizational hierarchy and structure, team leadership and coaching, labour relations and human resources. Students learn the differences between management and leadership. The course maintains a focus on the graphic communications employment environment. This course prepares students for their Internship work term through extensive discussion of the graphic communications job market and a focus on resumes and interview skills.
Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
GPA Weight:1.00
Billing Units:1
Count:1.00
Prerequisites:MKT 300
GCM 372 - Operations and Process Management
Course DescriptionPrinting has been described as the largest custom-order industry in the world. To understand how to manage this diverse industry, students learn the fundamentals of operations management and process analysis needed to manage a print manufacturing facility. Students are introduced to process analysis, including auditing and optimizing production efficiencies and productivity. Students will examine such topics as scheduling, plant layout, quality control, measurement and control of logistics, environmental policies, ordering of raw materials, inventory systems, and other operations designed for peak efficiency. The role of MIS software in the printing industry is discussed.
Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
GPA Weight:1.00
Billing Units:1
Count:1.00
Prerequisites:GCM 370
GCM 375 - Project Management for Graphic Communications
Course DescriptionThis course focuses on applying management practices to graphic communications projects such as print production and cross media applications. Students employ planning tools and techniques to carry out different types of industry projects, from technology-focused initiatives to business endeavors. The role of individuals and teams in the workplace to meet critical dates is emphasized throughout the course. Efficiency and effectiveness are a major theme. Students learn industry-standard project management software tools.
Weekly Contact:Lecture 1.5 hrs. Lab 1.5 hrs.
GPA Weight:1.00
Billing Units:1
Count:1.00
Prerequisites:MKT 300 and SSH 105
GCM 420 - Advanced Print Production Processes
Course DescriptionThis senior-level project-based course builds upon intermediate knowledge of graphic communications processes. Students determine and implement an appropriate efficient process to produce quality student-created graphic communications products from concept, design and prepress through printing and finishing. Projects may include the Grad Brochure, Colloquium and other event materials, products for student competitions or events. Students will be evaluated on their ability to effectively and successfully manage and complete projects, adhere to deadlines, and demonstrate attention to detail and end use considerations. Print projects may include a non-print graphic communication element. Students complete a written comprehensive process analysis, including recommendations for optimization.
Weekly Contact:Lab 3 hrs.
GPA Weight:1.00
Billing Units:1
Count:1.00
Prerequisites:GCM 220 and GCM 260
GCM 460 - Asset Management for Graphic Communications
Course DescriptionThe efficient and functional creation and storing of assets and information is essential for managing growing volumes of digital data in a graphic communications environment. Students learn how to catalogue, store and archive data using industry-standard software, with a strong emphasis on metadata, rights management, and security. Students learn how to utilize an asset management system, while creating an attractive interface that is attractive for end-users.
Weekly Contact:Lecture 1.5 hrs. Lab 1.5 hrs.
GPA Weight:1.00
Billing Units:1
Count:1.00
Prerequisites:GCM 320
GCM 461 - Workflow Automation
Course DescriptionBuilding on an understanding of process analysis and workflow, students learn how to use industry-standard automation tools to maximize efficiency. Students examine how process efficiencies can be maximized through the use of customer-facing portals, including Web2Print configurations, as well as integrated premedia systems, rules-based automation, automatic notifications and online approval cycles. Students also explore how equipment interconnectivity expands workflow efficiency through all aspects of a graphic communications production cycle.
Weekly Contact:Lab 3 hrs.
GPA Weight:1.00
Billing Units:1
Count:1.00
Prerequisites:GCM 460
GCM 470 - Business Plan
Course DescriptionIn this capstone course, teams of students develop a three-year business plan for a start-up company in the graphic communications industry. Students develop the core business strategy, including a feasibility assessment, competition analysis, marketing approach, HR and leadership plan, operations management, and financial plans. This course builds skills in team leadership and entrepreneurship, and encompasses strategic milestones throughout, concluding with a formal presentation for industry partners and a comprehensive written business plan.
Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
GPA Weight:1.00
Billing Units:1
Count:1.00
Prerequisites:GCM 370 and GCM 420
GCM 490 - Thesis
Course DescriptionIn this capstone course students complete a thesis with the guidance of an academic supervisor. The technology-focused research thesis will investigate an approved topic of choice in the graphic communications field. Students learn how to structure and write an undergraduate-level thesis following a professional format. Primary and secondary research methods will be reinforced for a successful completion of this course. This course encompasses strategic milestones throughout, concluding with a formal presentation and a comprehensive written thesis.
Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
GPA Weight:1.00
Billing Units:1
Count:1.00
Prerequisites:GCM 420 and GCM 460
GCM 710 - The Art of the Book
Course DescriptionThe book is credited with influencing culture and knowledge throughout the centuries. This course has two main focuses. It looks at how the book has evolved from before Gutenberg, to the time of Gutenberg about 600 hundred years ago, and to the present day book; as book art, ebook, graphica and ezines. The second focus looks at how print technology and electronic print technology has evolved along with the book. (Formerly GRA 510).
Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
GPA Weight:1.00
Billing Units:1
Count:1.00
GCM 712 - Making an Impact: The Letterpress Revival
Course DescriptionLetterpress is making a comeback as an art form. Letterpress printing and finishing are seen as ways to enhance a printed product and create a tactile effect. Letterpress is usually used for smaller print runs to underline the exclusivity of the prints made by the letterpress process. Material requirements for letterpress print jobs are a part of this course, as well as how the choice of font is depending on the fonts available in the font class. Students will create hand-set letterpress pieces in this course.
Weekly Contact:Lecture 1 hr. Lab 2 hrs.
GPA Weight:1.00
Billing Units:1
Count:1.00
GCM 720 - Magazine Production and Publishing
Course DescriptionThe number of magazines published these days is greater than ever, but print run lengths are changing with the availability of a range of non-print digital media. This course covers design and current technical specifications and requirements for magazine production and distribution. Students will learn about organizations structures, such as grids, formatting and sequential design. Image capture and manipulation are covered. Students will create and produce a short-run magazine.
Weekly Contact:Lecture 1.5 hrs. Lab 1.5 hrs.
GPA Weight:1.00
Billing Units:1
Count:1.00
GCM 722 - Book Production and Publishing
Course DescriptionThe book in all its forms remains relevant and permanent. This course covers the strategies, technologies and specifications for modern book design and production. Topics covered include page layout, design, typography and image requirements for books. Appropriate output technologies are explored for various forms of printed books and ebooks. Distribution practices are discussed.
Weekly Contact:Lecture 1.5 hrs. Lab 1.5 hrs.
GPA Weight:1.00
Billing Units:1
Count:1.00
GCM 730 - Fulfillment: Signed, Sealed and Delivered
Course DescriptionWhat is fulfillment? Students will learn about the ancillary services a print media organization can offer, including the management, storage, shipping and mailing of printed materials to clients or end users. Logistics are covered in detail, ranging from basic pick-and-pack operations to sophisticated, Web-enabled programs that provide client interfaces and order and inventory management. Distribution of non-printed graphic communication products is introduced.
Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
GPA Weight:1.00
Billing Units:1
Count:1.00
GCM 738 - Photoshopped! The Art of Image Retouching
Course DescriptionAdobe Photoshop is very powerful image manipulation software. Colours can be corrected or modified completely and image elements can be added and removed. With proper technique, a retouched image will not only look good on screen, but will stand up to the requirements of the intended output process. Various image manipulation techniques are explored in this course with a strong emphasis on non-destructive editing. Technical requirements are a focus. Students will learn the importance of working with others in the production process to ensure consistent and predictable retouching.
Weekly Contact:Lecture 1 hr. Lab 2 hrs.
GPA Weight:1.00
Billing Units:1
Count:1.00
GCM 740 - Accessibility for Graphic Communications
Course DescriptionThis course introduces students to issues of accessibility affecting graphic communication pieces. Accessibility is increasingly important in the design, production and distribution of print and non-printed graphic media. By improving accessibility, overall design and readability are often enhanced. Students will learn about legal and ethical responsibilities around legibility, and will analyze pieces of work for accessibility. Students will produce printed and non-printed pieces using current tools and guidelines for accessible documents.
Weekly Contact:Lecture 1.5 hrs. Lab 1.5 hrs.
GPA Weight:1.00
Billing Units:1
Count:1.00
GCM 746 - Sustainability in Print and Packaging
Course DescriptionEnvironmental sustainability is an essential consideration in today's graphic communications environment where business and technology decisions must take into account legal, ethical and technological issues influencing business strategies, materials and processes. Roles of government, manufacturers, clients and end users are examined with consideration of total product life cycle. Design and technologies to reduce environmental impact of graphic communications products, including packaging, are explored. An evidence-based approach is emphasized throughout, and students critically analyze claims for greenwashing.
Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
GPA Weight:1.00
Billing Units:1
Count:1.00
GCM 750 - 3D Printing
Course Description3D printing is a rapidly growing, highly versatile technique for rapid prototyping or responsive small-scale production. Based on ink jet printing technologies, 3D printing is being adopted by many printing and packaging companies. In this introduction to 3D printing, students will explore three dimensional scanning, software and files for 3D printer output. An introduction to materials and various 3D printing technologies from home to industrial applications will also be conducted.
Weekly Contact:Lecture 1.5 hrs. Lab 1.5 hrs.
GPA Weight:1.00
Billing Units:1
Count:1.00
GCM 754 - Sign and Display Graphics
Course DescriptionSign and display graphics can be printed in many different ways. Display graphics include also bus wraps and car wraps. Different print and ink technologies are used for sign and display graphics. Print technologies include, but are not limited to large format inkjet printing, screen printing and large format offset printing. Students will learn in this course not only about the printing of signs and displays but also about image requirements, image and print resolution, light fastness and other considerations for this interesting segment of the print industry.
Weekly Contact:Lecture 1 hr. Lab 2 hrs.
GPA Weight:1.00
Billing Units:1
Count:1.00
GCM 800 - Tags, Labels and Bags: Flexo Processes
Course DescriptionFlexography is a highly versatile printing process widely used in packaging applications and ideally suited for printing on many different substrates. In this advanced course, process requirements for narrow web, wide web and corrugated applications are covered in detail. Flexographic specifications and tolerances such as FIRST are studied. Advanced flexographic applications, including in-line finishing and converting processes, are explored in prepress, press, and simulation environments. Quality measurement and production efficiency are themes throughout.
Weekly Contact:Lecture 1 hr. Lab 2 hrs.
GPA Weight:1.00
Billing Units:1
Count:1.00
Prerequisites:GCM 210
GCM 802 - eBook Production and Publishing
Course DescriptioneBook production and publishing poses unique challenges. Unlike printed books, eBooks must be designed to reflow on various platforms, in different sizes, and with different e-reader apps, including those that improve accessibility, while still maintaining legibility, readability and proximity of body text, graphics, and captions. In this course students will study practices and tools for eBooks and will produce both open-source ePubs and proprietary eBooks.
Weekly Contact:Lecture 1 hr. Lab 2 hrs.
GPA Weight:1.00
Billing Units:1
Count:1.00
Prerequisites:GCM 130 or GRA 202
GCM 804 - Non-traditional Printing Applications
Course DescriptionExisting printing technologies are regularly applied to non-traditional applications that go beyond output of visual materials. Non-traditional printing and coating applications include printed electronics, circuits, batteries and displays, visual indicators of thermal or chemical exposure, security, anti-counterfeiting and brand protection, and printing of textiles, foods and other irregular media. Characteristics and applications of various printing processes and materials are discussed.
Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
GPA Weight:1.00
Billing Units:1
Count:1.00
Prerequisites:GCM 220
GCM 806 - Advanced Typography
Course DescriptionStudents in this advanced course pursue a deeper understanding of the history of typefaces and typeface design and application. From calligraphy to digital typeface design, students investigate the issues related to appropriate typeface design, and prepare their own typefaces.
Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
GPA Weight:1.00
Billing Units:1
Count:1.00
Prerequisites:GCM 230
GCM 808 - Outside the box: Package Prototyping
Course DescriptionPrototyping is an important part in the realization of any kind of package. Starting from the design concept to actual fabrication of the prototype all the necessary steps will be explored. The effect of the material on the actual package as well as the actual shape or form have an influence on the functionality of the package. Sustainability, accessibility and package economics are considered. Students will create prototype packages in the lab component of this course.
Weekly Contact:Lecture 1.5 hrs. Lab 1.5 hrs.
GPA Weight:1.00
Billing Units:1
Count:1.00
Prerequisites:GCM 220
GCM 810 - Creativity, Clients and Design
Course DescriptionThe graphic design process bridges concept and execution of a project. Successful design projects pose unique management and communication challenges involving designers, printers and clients. Topics include establishing specifications and timelines, how to find, hire and work with a designer, the marketing and pricing of designs, speculative work, and preparing or responding to a design pitch. Contracts, copyright, ownership, accessibility and related legal issues are introduced.
Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
GPA Weight:1.00
Billing Units:1
Count:1.00
Prerequisites:GCM 130 or GRA 202
GCM 812 - Out of a bind: Adv Binding and Finishing
Course DescriptionExpanding on the content of GCM 250, this course explores advanced, unique and specialty binding and finishing techniques that add value, impact and function to printed products. Advanced folding, die cutting, embossing and debossing, foil stamping and paper engineering are carried out. Hand sewing, box making and related ancillary bindery products and techniques are also covered.
Weekly Contact:Lecture 1.5 hrs. Lab 1.5 hrs.
GPA Weight:1.00
Billing Units:1
Count:1.00
Prerequisites:GCM 250
GCM 816 - Sales and Customer Relationship Mgmt GCM
Course DescriptionThis course expands upon the introduction of the sales process in GCM 350, with a detailed examination of the role of the sales representative in the graphic communications industry. Topics include customer relationships, formulating a selective selling strategy, the nature and sources of product, customer and competitive knowledge, using the consultative selling process, overcoming objections and closing the sale. The course discusses how to extend the focus of the sales practice into self-presentation and selling oneself to further skills in communication and presentation.
Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
GPA Weight:1.00
Billing Units:1
Count:1.00
Prerequisites:GCM 350
GCM 818 - Press Troubleshooting Simulation
Course DescriptionThis course introduces students to advanced troubleshooting and problem-solving of printing problems. Students will extensively use computer-based printing press simulators for flexography and sheetfed and web offset lithography, including inline finishing processes. Through extensive lab practice, the course offers students a strong understanding of how printing presses work and how to identify and solve common problems.
Weekly Contact:Lab 3 hrs.
GPA Weight:1.00
Billing Units:1
Count:1.00
Prerequisites:GCM 220
GCM 850 - Directed Studies I: Issues and Trends
Course DescriptionThe landscape for graphic communications is changing rapidly. New and disruptive technologies affect the way people produce and consume graphic communication products. Existing technologies are refined and can deliver results that were previously impossible. This directed studies course looks at current technologies and trends shaping the graphic communications industry. Topics will reflect emerging issues and interests of the participants.
Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
GPA Weight:1.00
Billing Units:1
Count:1.00
Prerequisites:GCM 372 or GRA 634
GCM 852 - Directed Studies II: Issues and Trends
Course DescriptionThis second directed studies course explores new and disruptive technologies that affect the way people produce and consume graphic communication products. Existing technologies are refined and can deliver results that were previously impossible. This second directed studies course looks at current technologies and trends shaping the graphic communications industry. Topics will reflect emerging issues and interests of the participants.
Weekly Contact:Lecture 3 hrs.
GPA Weight:1.00
Billing Units:1
Count:1.00
Prerequisites:GCM 372
GCM 854 - Advanced Material Science
Course DescriptionThis course will take an advanced look into the materials used across the range of printing processes. The focus is on how the properties of materials directly affect the suitability of printed products for use by clients and end users. Students will conduct advanced material testing for printability, runability and end-use. Experiment design and the interpretation, organization and reporting of results is covered. At the end of this course, students will have an improved understanding of troubleshooting materials used in printing processes.
Weekly Contact:Lecture 1 hr. Lab 2 hrs.
GPA Weight:1.00
Billing Units:1
Count:1.00
Prerequisites:GCM 240
GCM 856 - Colour Theory and Measurement
Course DescriptionThis advanced course explores how colour can be expressed quantitatively. A thorough understanding of colour improves jobs specifications, shortens approval stages and reduces reprints and other quality problems. This course, dealing with printed and non-printed graphic output, examines topics including white point, light sources and optical brighteners. Measurement factors such as different types of colour measurement instruments and geometries, inter-instrument agreeability are explored. Professional associations in the colour field are introduced.
Weekly Contact:Lecture 1.5 hrs. Lab 1.5 hrs.
GPA Weight:1.00
Billing Units:1
Count:1.00
Prerequisites:GCM 360
GCM 858 - Advanced Workflows
Course DescriptionThis advanced course explores in detail current premedia workflow solutions, with a focus on how they can be utilized to their full potential in a modern graphic communications operation. Students will explore advanced features of integrated workflow solutions including advanced in-RIP colour management, soft proofing, visualization, customized customer-facing portals, advanced screening options, and third-party plug-ins.
Weekly Contact:Lecture 1 hr. Lab 2 hrs.
GPA Weight:1.00
Billing Units:1
Count:1.00
Prerequisites:GCM 260
GCM 860 - Advanced Variable Data Printing
Course DescriptionVariable data printing is an effective tool for personalizing and adding value to graphic communication messages, dramatically increasing response rates. In this advanced course, students will personalize text, graphics, colours and design leading to printed and non-print graphic output, including email and mobile device campaigns. Extensive lab work focuses on data files and industry-standard variable data software applications. Current file formats and optimal workflows are emphasized.
Weekly Contact:Lecture 1 hr. Lab 2 hrs.
GPA Weight:1.00
Billing Units:1
Count:1.00
Prerequisites:GCM 320
GRA 704 - Management of Workflow I
Course DescriptionThis course investigates workflow automation concepts and technology as used in the graphic arts industry. The course introduces JDF technology including concepts of JDF certification, JMF messaging and interoperability specifications. XML is introduced and XML basics such as elements and attributes are explored in the context of understanding JDF. Applications of JDF are considered using communication between various paired systems such as MIS->Prepress, Creative->Workflow, Prepress->Bindery, etc. The course considers the management and evaluation of workflow systems and practices.
Weekly Contact:Lecture 1.5 hrs.
GPA Weight:1.00
Billing Units:1
Count:1.00
GRA 741 - Management Studies III
Course DescriptionIndependent research applied to develop a three-year business plan for a company in the graphic communications market. Teams develop managerial skills to produce the mission and strategic plan for the company. Students prepare competitive assessments, marketing strategy, manufacturing and operations management, and administrative and human resource plans. Encompasses the student's internship (a work placement in the graphic communications or allied industries) conducted between third and fourth year and professional career development skills.
Weekly Contact:Lecture 2 hrs.
GPA Weight:1.00
Billing Units:1
Count:1.00
Prerequisites:ACC 406 and GRA 216 and GRA 230 and GRA 630 and MKT 300
GRA 743 - Managing Advanced Technology I
Course DescriptionThis course investigates leading edge technology and practices in the graphic communications industry from a managerial perspective. Management strategies and concepts are applied to advanced technologies in order to assist students to make better technological choices in the work place. In particular, GRA 743 introduces critical technologies as they relate to networking, asset management, and real-time collaborative proofing.
Weekly Contact:Lecture 1.5 hrs. Lab 1.5 hrs.
GPA Weight:1.00
Billing Units:1
Count:1.00
Prerequisites:GRA 633
GRA 804 - Management of Workflow II
Course DescriptionThis course deals with ways to manage and automate graphic arts workflows. This course builds on knowledge and concepts developed in GRA 704. The course considers practical examples of workflow automation and JDF connectivity. Automation examples may be simple such as Applescript or OSX Automator or be more complex such as web2print. The role of the MIS system in workflow management is explored in detail. The course concentrates on practical JDF automation as explored and demonstrated through real-world workflow examples involving MIS, prepress, press and bindery.
Weekly Contact:Lecture 1.5 hrs.
GPA Weight:1.00
Billing Units:1
Count:1.00
Prerequisites:GRA 704
GRA 841 - Management Studies IV
Course DescriptionStudents continue independent research applied to develop a three-year business plan for a company in the graphic communications market, including coordination of management functions to develop the mission and strategic plan for the company. Students must prepare competitive assessments, marketing strategy, manufacturing and operations management, and administrative and human resource plans. Includes career preparation seminars.
Weekly Contact:Lecture 2 hrs.
GPA Weight:1.00
Billing Units:1
Count:1.00
Prerequisites:GRA 116 and GRA 741
GRA 843 - Managing Advanced Technology II
Course DescriptionGRA 843 expands upon the discussions and technologies introduced in GRA 743. Within this context, broader issues such as advanced workflow management, as well as alternative publishing possibilities, are discussed. Specific management issues related to these advanced technologies are studied in detail.
Weekly Contact:Lecture 1.5 hrs. Lab 1.5 hrs.
GPA Weight:1.00
Billing Units:1
Count:1.00
Prerequisites:GRA 743