Certificate Program
Packaging Design
Create multiple package designs for several different industries
Be challenged to approach package design in a non-traditional fashion, to discover new substrates to utilize, and to utilize new methods to protect the environment throughout the process. Students who successfully complete this certificate will be able to demonstrate the ability to judge, adapt and incorporate historical and/ or contemporary influences and perspectives in their creative and intellectual processes and will gain knowledge of the package design industry (its past, its present, and its future).
Required Courses
10.5 Credits | Not Available Online
GD 219 – Digital Technology
The goal of this course is to teach students how to use the computer as a production tool. The software of the Adobe Creative Suite, including but not limited to InDesign, Illustrator, and Photoshop will be taught in order to address current industry standards and requirements. Utility programs, prepress and web issues, and file preparation and management skills will also be taught.
Credits : 3
GD 256 – Typography
In this class, students will initially work manually with letterforms to gain a craft-based aesthetic knowledge of type and eventually move toward a digital application of type and typographic design. Projects will stress the importance of appropriate type usage while addressing issues of craft, readability, message, and style. The software of the Adobe Creative Suite will also be explored.
Credits : 3
GD 417 – Package Design
This course will teach students about designing in three dimensions. Students will learn about packaging, point-of-purchase displays, and other dimensional materials through packaging/brand design projects specific to retail consumer products. Students will produce object-oriented prototypes as well as electronic packaging mechanicals. Issues of brand identity, function, construction, and labeling will be discussed.
Credits : 3
GD 422 – Experimental Packaging
In an ever-evolving digital era, clients with the budget have focused on creating high-end, deluxe packaging that best captures the imagination of the subject as well as the attention of the consumer. This course will draw upon a student’s creativity and vision in order to produce experimental and conceptual works in this field, while also allowing for discussions on alternative printing techniques, complex printer specifications and templates, historic and contemporary case studies, and a greater comprehension of how far printed matter can be taken.
Credits : 1.5
Who Should Enroll
The program is designed for a wide range of individuals. College experience is not a prerequisite for this program, but an interest in packaging design is essential. High school and college graduates, veterans, professionals, and entrepreneurs will be among the students who bring their diverse perspectives to the program.
Cost
$1,157 per credit hour
A total of 10.5 credit hours are required. Credits will be billed per course.
How to Register
Enrolling in one of PCA&D’s Certificate Programs is simple. Confirm your intent to pursue one of our certificates by filling out an application.
If you have any questions regarding mapping out a plan, upcoming class schedules, or completing your certificate, please contact Bonnie Kern, our Admissions Transfer & Outreach Coordinator, at 717.396.7833 ext 1014 or email bkern@pcad.edu.