Catalog Course Search Details

 Department:    MIT

 Course #:    136

 Credits:    5

 Variable:     No

 IUs:    5

 CIP:    11.0801

 EPC:    DMWMEAPT

 REV:    2024

 Course Description  

Introduction to typography which is the art and science of arranging type to make written language legible, readable, and visually appealing. Provides a comprehensive understanding of the fundamental principles and practices of typography to create effective and aesthetically pleasing typographic designs.

 Prerequisite  

Prerequisite: None.

Contact Hours (based on 11 week quarter)

Lecture: 55

Lab: 0

Other: 0

Systems: 0

Clinical: 0

Intent: Distribution Requirement(s) Status:  

Vocational Preparatory Required for ATA degree, Required for certificate  

Equivalencies At Other Institutions

Learning Outcomes

After completing this course, the student will be able to:

1. Classify typefaces into categories such as serif, sans-serif, script, and display.
2. Demonstrate an understanding of the basic elements of type design, including letterforms, x-height, descenders, and ascenders.
3. Adjust letter spacing (kerning) and overall text spacing (tracking) to improve typographic readability and aesthetics.
4. Create typographic hierarchy in design, differentiating between headings, subheadings, and body text to guide reader attention effectively.
5. Choose appropriate line length and leading (line spacing) to enhance readability and visual appeal in various design contexts.
6. Design typographic layouts using grids, showing an understanding of how to balance text and white space.
7. Critique design projects for typographic readability and visual appeal.
8. Apply typographic principles to create logos and brand identities.
9. Place typography within historical and cultural contexts, identifying influential typefaces and design movements.
10. Demonstrate proficiency in typography-related software for layout design.

General Education Learning Values & Outcomes

Revised August 2008 and affects outlines for 2008 year 1 and later.

Course Contents

1. Typefaces such as serif, sans-serif, script, and display.
2. Basic elements of type design, including letterforms, x-height, descenders, and ascenders.
3. Letter spacing (kerning) and overall text spacing (tracking) to improve typographic readability and aesthetics.
4. Typographic hierarchy in design, headings, subheadings, and body text to guide reader attention effectively.
5. Line length and leading (line spacing) to enhance readability and visual appeal in various design contexts.
6. Typographic layouts using grids, how to balance text, and white space.
7. Design projects for typographic readability and visual appeal.
8. Typographic principles for logos and brand identities.
9. Typography within historical and cultural contexts, influential typefaces, and design movements.
10. Typography-related software for layout design.