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Course Description

Visualizing Data with Graphic Design

Graphic designers do so much more than design logos. They take information and make it easily understandable in a visual format. They can translate complex data, such as time or location, and make it accessible. Just as importantly, they can do so while making it aesthetically pleasing and playful. Start by analyzing and interpreting what story lives in your data. Then, use concepts like hierarchy and Gestalt principles to brainstorm your design. Using visual characteristics, translate complex material into readable maps, graphs and diagrams. Play with variables like perception, transparency and distortion. You will learn and apply a range of methods in both analog (handmaking) and digital tools.

Learner Outcomes

  • Analyze and interpret data to find the underlying story. 
  • Brainstorm and iterate several ideas to develop your visual language.
  • Present a story or message in an easy-to-understand visual format using Gestalt principles and design elements.

Foundations

No matter what media an artist or designer specializes in, it all starts with design and drawing. This course teaches both areas to accelerate your learning. Express your ideas through impactful visual communication. Create compelling images using the design elements and principles. Generate interest with mark-making, texture and other drawing techniques. Skills developed in this course will complement your coursework in your concentration. RISD's approach to these concepts will challenge you, regardless of your experience with design and drawing.

Learner Outcomes

  • Achieve rich drawings using charcoal and other media.
  • Implement design elements and principles to create effective compositions.
  • Integrate drawing techniques with design principles.

Notes

By enrolling for this course you are enrolling in two separate courses, a Graphic Design concentration course (Wednesdays) and a companion course focusing on the foundations of art and design (Mondays).

Course times listed are Eastern Time.

An application to the Pre-College Online program is required upon registration in these courses. At the point of checkout you will be directed to the application.

Prerequisites

These courses are part of RISD's Pre-College Online, a program for students ages 14–18 in grades 10–12.
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Enroll Now - Select a section to enroll in

Type
Online, Live Sessions
Days
M, W
Time
8:00PM to 11:00PM
Dates
Jun 22, 2026 to Jul 29, 2026
Type
Online, Asynchronous
Dates
Jun 22, 2026 to Jul 30, 2026
Schedule and Location
Contact Hours
30.0
Delivery Options
Course Fee(s)
Tuition non-credit $4,500.00 Click here to get more information
Service charge(s)
  • 3% Service Fee  
Drop Request Deadline
Contact precollege@risd.edu to request a drop from this course
Transfer Request Deadline
Contact precollege@risd.edu to request a transfer to another course
Withdrawal Request Deadline
Contact precollege@risd.edu to withdraw from this course
Necessary Supplies

Students are responsible for purchasing their own art supplies, equipment, software subscriptions, and/or books. Each course has a separate supply list. These will be available on each course site in Canvas two weeks before the class start date. Depending on the course and instructor, you can expect to spend approximately $150-$250 per course (total estimated $300-$500).

Once you have received your enrollment confirmation and logged in to Canvas, navigate to Upcoming Courses on the left-hand side of your dashboard. Supplies will be listed on your course homepage under the supplies heading. Some or all of your course supplies are available at the RISD Store.

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