Diploma in Graphic and Multimedia Design, Sunway University, Petaling Jaya, Selangor, Malaysia

Diploma in Graphic & Multimedia Design’s full-time seven semesters course offers liberal, theoretical and design studies in the field of graphic design and multimedia design. It provides a firm grounding in the development of skills and knowledge necessary for a career in the creative industries.

The key skills that you will acquire:

  • Computer skills (Photoshop, Illustrator, In-Design, Director, Dreamweaver and Flash)
  • Drawing and Illustration skills (Still-life, Perspective, Caricature, Computer Graphics and Paper Sculpture)
  • Photography skills (Outdoor and Indoor Shooting, Studio Lighting and Photo Retouching)
  • Presentation skills (Verbal, Written and Digital)

Programme Structure

Year 1

Covers fundamental skills and knowledge in design theory and practices, computer, drawing and practical majors such as Typography, Illustration and Design.

  • GMD 1101 History of Graphic Design
  • GMD 1102 English for Artists and Designers
  • GMD 1203 Principles of Design
  • GMD 1204 Principles of Organisation
  • GMD 1205 Drawing Studies
  • GMD 1206 Computer Graphics 1
  • GMD 1207 Typography 1
  • GMD 1308 Graphic Design 1
  • GMD 1309 Multimedia Design 1
  • GMD 1310 Computer Graphics 2
  • GMD 1311 Typography 2
  • GMD 1312 Illustration

Year 2

Builds on the conceptual development of specific technical skills and design processes in the context of Graphic Design and Multimedia Design. This course places students in real-world projects and working situations, teaching them to bring creative ideas to a professional context with a broad framework in developing students’ creative skills.

  • GMD 2413 Research and Report Writing
  • GMD 2414 Introduction to Packaging
  • GMD 2415 Printing Technology
  • GMD 2516 Graphic Design 2
  • GMD 2517 Multimedia Design 2
  • GMD 2518 Computer Graphics 3
  • GMD 2519 Photography
  • GMD 2620 Graphic Design 3
  • GMD 2621 Packaging Design
  • GMD 2622 Graphic Design Final Project
  • GMD 2623 Multimedia Design Final Project

Year 3

Includes an internship with industry partners involved in advertising, design, publication, packaging, photography, production or retail.

  • GMD 3724 Practical Training and Internship Report

Modules

Year 1

GMD 1101 History of Graphic Design
This module aims to develop an appreciation for design and design analysis as well as acquaint students with world famous designers, concepts, movement and terminologies. This module also provides an in-depth survey of the historical, cultural, social and political movements which have influenced the revolution of graphic design. (3 credit hours)

GMD 1102 English for Artists and Designers
This module covers language skills required for pursuing the Art and Design course. In addition to reading, writing, listening and speaking skills, students will also be taught the relevant study and research skills to enable them to participate effectively in an academic setting. (3 credit hours)

GMD 1203 Principles of Design
This module covers the vocabulary of visual elements, visual perception, appreciation for the forms of art, application of design principles and colours in the creation of artworks. (4 credit hours)

GMD 1204 Principles of Organisation
This module covers principles of organisation, visual ordering and exploration of three-dimensional art. Practices, studio activities, exercises and projects are implemented to communicate and present ideas that have content and meaning. (3 credit hours)

GMD 1205 Drawing Studies
This module introduces the history of artistic drawing and famous artists, the principles of perspective, proportions, light and shades, values and contrast, composition, form and space applied in drawing. (3 credit hours)

GDM 1206 Computer Graphics 1
This module covers the importance of computer in society and the requisites by design industries, the acquisition and application of technical skills to enable artists and designers to communicate effectively and creatively. It also cover step-by-step instructions and knowledge of the storage, command and keyboard shortcuts to speed-up digital image processing, effective file management system and develop essential skills to digital imaging. (3 credit hours)

GDM 1207 Typography 1
This module introduces the basic specification, copy fitting, kerning as well as terminologies used by typographers. This module is structured to enable students to master the technical aspects of typography and how to select, design and use type creatively, intelligently and effectively. (3 credit hours)

GDM 1308 Graphic Design 1 (Corporate Identity System)
The module introduces students to branding a company / product / service with emphasis on developing the Corporate Identity System in using the logo / logotype. Step by step tutorials will guide students on naming, designing logo / logotype and symbols, processes, methods, strategies, management and control of the brand identity. Student will produce a corporate manual with full specifications on the brand, its rationale, use of sizes and variations, colour coding and standards of application. (4 credit hours)

GDM 1309 Multimedia Design 1 (Website)
This module utilises multimedia authoring software, image manipulation software, sound editing software and basic animation software to develop the specialist skills required to produce an original multimedia treatment. The fundamental of storyboarding and audience analysis are combined with practical work to develop the skills required for multimedia construction. This is taught within a framework that examines the current technological hardware-software limitations implicit in various approaches in realising project objectives. (4 credit hours)

GDM 1310 Computer Graphics 2
This module covers the essential techniques and skills in using the Photoshop, image-editing process, exploring creative applications like advance retouching, photo montage, vector graphics and special effects to create graphic design works. (3 credit hours)

GDM 1311 Typography 2
This module will explore creative Typography & Calligraphy, Investigating Type Design and Designers and how to use type to integrate into a unified design. (3 credit hours)

Year 2

GDM 1312 Illustration
This module provides the opportunity for students to explore different media and techniques in order to develop a personal style in illustration. Concepts, styles, techniques, designs and visual communications are explored and illustrated using various techniques to interpret verbal and / or visual translation. (3 credit hours)

GMD 2413 Research & Report Writing
This module covers various modes and models of research, analysis of information, data and information for idea development and form generation. Students will learn step by step on how to undertake research and write a research report or project paper. The difference between qualitative and quantitative methods will also be discussed, and issues relating to planning and executing a research will be examined progressively. (3 credit hours)

GDM 2414 Introduction to Packaging
This module will introduce the history of packaging, the values in protecting the product, strength and weaknesses in packaging, shelf impact, environmental issues, concepts and strategies in developing a package. (3 credit hours)

GDM 2415 Printing Technology
This module introduces students to print production and printing processes. Students will take a comprehensive look at how to work with printers from estimates, pricing and negotiating to trade customs and quality guidelines. Students will also learn to choose the right paper, inks, proofing, output and colours as parts of print production quality. This module will also cover visits to printing company, publication studios and support service companies. (3 credit hours)

GDM 2516 Graphic Design 2 (Publication Design)
This module covers publication terminologies, types of publication design, principles and production methods in developing the publication. Tutorials will guide students on working details, problem-solving methods and design strategies in producing a magazine / publication. Additional topics on the history of publishing and publication design as a career will also be discussed. (4 credit hours)

GDM 2517 Multimedia Design 2 (Web Design and 2D Animation)
This module will assist students in attaining mastery and proficiency in the production of a challenging and comprehensive multimedia, animation, web design using Adobe Premier Pro, Photoshop and Illustrator. Emphasis will be given to concept, research, understanding and skills development in creating professional multimedia works using the related software. (4 credit hours)

GDM 2518 Computer Graphics 3
This module will cover the essential techniques and skills in Photoshop, image-editing process, exploring creative applications like advance retouching, photo montage, vector graphics and special effects. (3 credit hours)

GMD 2519 Packaging Design
This module will introduce research instruments such as questionnaires and interviews, data collection and data analysis to create packaging for locally produced products. Design consideration emphasises on consumer needs, branding and innovation in packaging. (3 credit hours)

GMD 2520 Photography
This module offers students an introduction to the use of the camera, metering, film development and studio lighting. A systematical and thorough approach is emphasised with demonstrations and assignments. Students develop essential skills for obtaining consistent results. Students must have a 35mm camera with manual / digital functions and the option to interchange lenses. (3 credit hours)

GDM 2621 Graphic Design Final Project
This module will assist students in building their own portfolio. Emphasis will be put on design strategies, concept and relevance of project executed in terms of student’s intellectual experiences, personal and professional development and time management. This module will emphasise on the acknowledgement of design problems and relationships of context to disciplines, which lead to the original design solutions.

There are five key learning activities for the student to develop;

1. Design principles that entail the process of editing, analysing and critique.

2. Set briefs that lead to clear outcomes in terms of the use of images, typography and symbols.

3. Designer’s responsibility and ability to probe-solve situation or issues.

4. Skills acquired for the execution of the project.

5. Time-management of the project.

Upon completion of the final project, the student will be required to present a complete project works for a graduate exhibition. Internal and External assessors from the industry or academic will be invited to evaluate the student’s final project. (4 credit hours)

GMD 2622 Multimedia Design Final Project (Interactive CD)
This module will assist students in building their own digital portfolio on Interactive CD using the multimedia components such as animation, sound and interactivity for future employment. (4 credit hours)

Year 3

GMD 3724 Practical Training & Internship Report
The module focuses on the working world of the graphic and multimedia design industry covering insights of the profession in terms of requirements, expectations and practices to enable the students to seek employment and work exposure before completing the Diploma in Graphic and Multimedia Design course. This module also provides a mechanism and opportunity for the interaction between the student and the practitioners through various means such as visitation and talks by guest lecturers from the profession / industry, collaborative design projects, and industrial / professional work experience.

The requirements of this module are:

1. Two months internship attachment with a firm or organisation.

2. A report from the host organisation.

3. A written report by the student upon successful completion of his / her practical training.

Upon completion of satisfactory reports from the host organisation and the student, the student will be deemed to have successfully completed this module and will be awarded the relevant credits. (4 credit hours)

Further Studies

Diploma in Graphic and Multimedia Design graduates who achieved a merit or distinction award is eligible to apply for direct entry into the final year of the Bachelor of Computer Graphic Design at Wanganui School of Design and University of Waikato, New Zealand.

Students may also seek credit transfer to partner universities for degree studies with advance standing.

Career Opportunities

Successful completion of this diploma will enable graduates to work in fields such as print design, advertising, packaging design, corporate design, publication design, editorial illustration, children’s book illustration, character design, studio photography, photojournalism, animation, web and multimedia design.

Entry Requirements

  • SPM / UEC / O-Level with minimum three (3) credits including a pass in Art.
  • SPM / UEC / O-Level with minimum three (3) credits and submission of portfolio(for student who does not take Art as a subject).
  • Certificate in related fields of Art and Design.
  • Any other equivalent qualifications will be considered on a case-to-case basis.

Duration
2 ½ years (Full Time)

Level
7 semesters

Credits
81 credits

LAN Subjects
9 credits (only for Malaysians)

Internship
2 – 4 months

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Sunway University Contact Details

Address:
Sunway University
No. 5, Jalan Universiti,
Bandar Sunway,
46150 Petaling Jaya,
Selangor, Malaysia.

Phone: +6(03)7491 8622
Fax: +6(03)5635 8630

Email: info@sunway.edu.my
Website: http://sunway.edu.my/