Curriculum

To prepare you for the world of digital media, Guru has broken the Digital Media Producer diploma program into three phases. Each builds on the last, utilizing past skills to master new ones. These are the main courses that make up those phases.



1) Foundations

Everybody has to start somewhere. The Foundations phase covers the software, theory and standards that will provide the foundation you need to succeed.

Adobe Illustrator

Illustrator sessions cover the use of basic functions, such as the pen tool, basic shape tools, color management and effects to produce vector graphics using Adobe Illustrator.

Adobe InDesign

InDesign sessions teach you how to properly layout text and images, create and use master pages, style text and export print-ready materials using Adobe InDesign.

Adobe Photoshop

Photoshop sessions teach you how to manipulate photos, correct colors and touch up photos. It also covers layers, filters, layer effects and other basic Photoshop functions.

W3C Standards XHTML

This course covers the basics of World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) XHTML, including the differences between XHTML and HTML. You’ll learn all of the basic tags used to create web pages, as well as how to use them within W3C guidelines.

W3C Standards CSS

This course teaches you how to use Cascading Style Sheets (CSS) to style and format XHTML. You’ll learn the basic tags used to make W3C-compliant web pages.

Design Theory

This course introduces you to the C.A.R.P. theory of design (composition, arrangement, repetition and proximity). You’ll also learn color theory, typography and usability, all of which are important skills for a designer to have. All teachings are reinforced through multiple digital and traditional mediums to improve retention.

Drawing

This course covers the basics of traditional drawing, an invaluable design skill. You’ll learn pencil skills, thumbnail sketching, patterns, textures, wire frames, concept drawings, art history, character drawing, productive doodling and storyboarding.

Creative Process

This course introduces you to several useful techniques to help harness your creativity. Learn upside down thinking, public speaking, relaxation, elevator pitches, how to channel the masters and how to use your body to express yourself.

JavaScript

This course covers the basics of JavaScript. You’ll learn to use JavaScript libraries like jQuery, AJAX and MooTools to produce web content. You’ll also learn how to manipulate and customize basic functions for your own uses.

2) Implementation

You have the tools and the basics. Now, use them to complete projects in Guru’s Implementation phase to hone your skills.

Planning and Implementing Web-based Projects using Adobe DreamWeaver, InDesign and Flash

In this course you’ll use DreamWeaver, InDesign and Flash, along with digital assets created in other programs, to complete web-based projects. You’ll use all of the skills you learned in the Fundamental phase to create these assets. You’ll be taken from the planning and conceptual stage to implementation stage multiple times to cement the process.

Planning and Implementing Print-based Projects using Adobe InDesign

In this course you’ll use InDesign, along with digital assets created in other programs, to complete print projects. You’ll use all of the skills you learned in the Fundamental phase to create these assets. You’ll be taken from the planning and conceptual stage to implementation stage multiple times to cement the process.

Planning and Implementing Video Projects using Adobe Premiere and After Effects

In this course you’ll use Adobe Premiere and After Effects, along with digital assets created in other programs, to complete video projects. You’ll use all of the skills you learned in the Fundamental phase to create these assets. You’ll be taken from the planning and conceptual stage to implementation stage multiple times to cement the process.

Planning and Implementing Animation Projects using Adobe Flash and After Effects

In this course you’ll use Adobe Flash and After Effects, along with digital assets created in other programs, to complete animation projects. You’ll use all of the skills you learned in the Fundamental phase to create these assets. You’ll be taken from the planning and conceptual stage to implementation stage multiple times to cement the process.

Planning and Implementing Interactive Rich Media Projects using Adobe Flash and InDesign

In this course you’ll use Adobe Flash and InDesign, along with digital assets created in other programs, to complete interactive rich media projects. You’ll use all of the skills you learned in the Fundamental phase to create these assets. You’ll be taken from the planning and conceptual stage to implementation stage multiple times to cement the process.


3) Specialization

You have the tools and the basics. You’ve honed them by completing various projects. Now, you’ll decide which skills you’re most comfortable and adept with to complete project deliverables on a professional level. You’ll also learn new specialized techniques to complete your Guru skill set.

Project Process

In this course, a seasoned art director will take you through the entire process of leading a project. You’ll learn proposal writing and design methods; then, you’ll create the deliverables, from start to finish.

Client Relations

In this course you’ll learn how to conduct yourself professionally via email and face-to-face conversation with clients. We’ll teach you how to assess risk, manage change and forecast time delays in projects.

SEO

In this course you’ll learn all about Search Engine Optimization (SEO) techniques. You’ll use those techniques to create W3C-compliant web sites that rank high on search engines like Google and Yahoo to help deliver your client’s message.

Advanced Web Analysis, Design and Implementation

In this course you’ll use DreamWeaver, InDesign and Flash, along with digital assets created in other programs, to complete advanced web-based projects. You’ll use all of the skills you learned in the Fundamental and Implementation phases to create these assets. You’ll be taken from the planning and conceptual stage to implementation stage multiple times to cement the process.

Advanced Print Analysis, Design and Implementation

In this course you’ll use InDesign, along with digital assets created in other programs, to complete advanced print projects. You’ll use all of the skills you learned in the Fundamental and Implementation phases to create these assets. You’ll be taken from the planning and conceptual stage to implementation stage multiple times to cement the process.

Advanced Rich Media Analysis, Design and Implementation

In this course you’ll use Adobe Premiere, After Effects and Flash, along with digital assets created in other programs, to complete advanced rich media projects. You’ll use all of the skills you learned in the Fundamental and Implementation phases to create these assets. You’ll be taken from the planning and conceptual stage to implementation stage multiple times to cement the process.

Business Ethics

This course teaches you how to conduct business in an ethical manner. A professional lawyer will cover copyright laws and how to protect your work.

Self-Marketing

This course will teach you how to market and promote yourself and your work in a successful way. You’ll learn how to use social networking, portfolio construction, artist communities and traditional marketing mediums to make yourself heard.


Contact us


For further information, or to set up an appointment, contact us.


Phone: 780.429.4878
Toll-Free: 1.877.429.4878
Fax: 780.429.4042
Toll-Free Fax: 1.877.429.4042
E-Mail: info@gurudigitalarts.com


Visit us in person! We’d love to meet you.

200 - 10169 101 Street NW
Edmonton, AB
T5J 0T6