About the Program
Visual Communication Design which comprises many fields, like photography, video production, advertising design, game design, and page design emerged with the rise of the needs of the last centuries. Because of these characteristics, Visual Communication has its own unique place in the communication faculties. Visual Communication Design exceeds the limitations of graphic design and embraces a wide range of areas related to mainly communication such as TV and film production, video and image processing, 2D and 3D animation, photography, package design, and corporate identity design. Visual Communication Design education, in short, is for the students who like transferring knowledge, ideas, and dreams using photographic images, videos, and films, and who want to discover the creative potential in visual elements, and new things deeply affecting them.
Education Opportunities
The program utilizes an interdisciplinary approach using art and technology, supported by other scientific disciplines, which allow students of the department to have real work experience during their education. In addition to the theoretical courses in which the current aesthetic trends and theoretical foundations of communication are taught in mutual interaction, the department offers video production, multimedia design, 2D and 3D graphic animation, editing and generic graphics, and web design, where students will discover their own creative potential and develop them further with the expert assistance of faculty members. The courses are conducted in an international atmosphere by experienced academicians and lecturers who are experts in practice. As the program education language is English, the graduates can easily adapt to the international agencies and media organizations with the experience they have gained from the international profile of the university and the department.
Career Areas
Students who graduate from the Department of Visual Communication Design can gain the opportunity to work in many areas of the communication sector, with the interdisciplinary intellectual and creative skills they have gained and their skills to master new communication technologies. In addition, students can orient themselves towards the academic field if they wish. With the existing cooperation with media organizations, agencies and printing houses, the students of the department have the chance to gain experience in real business life during their education. Our graduates can find career opportunities in the following areas with the technological knowledge and creative skills they have acquired:
• Web Design
• Animation
• Interactive Information Design
• Computer Aided Graphic and Multimedia Design
• Advertising and Public Relations
• Video and Film Production
• Special Effects Design
• Post-Production
• Art Director or Creative Director in Advertising Agencies
• PC Software Screen Work
• Editing Suits in Local, Regional, and National TV Organizations
Accreditations
Visual Communication Design has been accredited as of June, 14 2024, by the Foundation for International Business Administration Accreditation (FIBAA), which is an institution authorized in performing external evaluations and issuing accreditation certificates.
Contact
Faculty of Communication
Çevik Uraz Center, CU124
Tel: +90 392 671 1111 Extension: 2301
Faculty E-mail: secretary-foc@ciu.edu.tr
Head of Department: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Dilan ÇİFTÇİ
Head of Department E-mail: dciftci@ciu.edu.tr
Compulsory Courses
First Semester
INTRODUCTION TO MASS COMMUNICATION
Course code
COMM101Credit
3Theoretical
3Practical
0Ects
6
This course introduces students to the structure and functions of mass media, with special attention to emerging information technologies. It is designed to introduce communication students to the various media industries, including print and digital media. The impact of the mass media on lifestyles, public opinion, governance and business are also studied. Special attention is given to the historical background of traditional mass communication tools such as books, newspapers, magazines, radio and television by comparing their significance and influence on daily life of society, as well as their impact on the economy. The course also addresses the fundamental elements in the communication process and their significance to media relations.
HISTORY OF CIVILIZATION
Course code
HIST100Credit
0Theoretical
2Practical
0Ects
2
The aim of this course is to outline the development of civilizations in the course of history. It firstly focuses on the concepts such as “Civilization”, “Prehistoric”, and “Historic” and on the factors forcing the emergence of the first civilizations. As well as examining the prehistoric periods and their characteristics in the course of human life since the first appearance of human beings on earth, the course mainly focuses on the early civilizations, namely the Mesopotamian, Egyptian, Aegean, Classical Greek, Hellenistic, Indian, Chinese and Roman Civilizations. Political, social, economical, cultural, intellectual, philosophical and scientific aspects in these entities are also examined in this course.
TURKISH LANGUAGE
Course code
TREG100Credit
0Theoretical
2Practical
0Ects
2
This course examines basic areas of language and expression. In the first half of the course, the theoretical approach to language is formed and the spelling rules of the Turkish language are studied. In the latter part of the course, language and narrative errors are studied together with editing. In the second half of the course, formal writing, curriculum vitae, petition, evaluation of the columns in terms of language and style, types of written expression and practice; Turkish production and application of shooting attachments; Turkish grammar structure; It is aimed to teaching subjects like phonetics of Turkish to students.
TURKISH
Course code
TURK100Credit
0Theoretical
2Practical
0Ects
2
This course provides an orientation to modern Turkish language for foreign students who wish to communicate in this language for their needs. It mainly focuses on the differences between Turkish and English Alphabets, especially the sounds and the letters which are not included in the English alphabet (i.e. Turkish letters ç-ğ-i-ö-ş-ü). In addition, basic grammar and sentence structure forms in Turkish are practised. The required grammar and vocabulary will also be developed through their adaptation to daily situations in contexts such as introducing yourselves, greeting, talking about the things they possess by using possessive adjectives, forming positive, negative and question sentences by using present simple, telling the time, talking about their own timetables, using demonstrative pronouns when describing the place of objects and becoming familiar with vocabulary related to family members.
BASIC DESIGN-I
Course code
VICD101Credit
4Theoretical
3Practical
2Ects
8
The course focuses on the basics of design through design elements and principles such as harmony, contrast, balance, unity, dilemma, dominance, repetition, rhythm, analogy, metaphor. The course introduces colour theory and its application to design. The course examines Euclidean geometry, composition of shapes, forms and spaces with the emphasis on their visual expression such as light, colour, texture, shade, gestalt principles of perception, figure-ground relations, orientation, formal transformations, interdependence and relationships; studies on ordering systems; introduction of abstract/real concepts in a design process, as well as the principles of two and three-dimensional design, emphasizing function as a determinant. Theories of design will also be introduced.
MEDIA PERSUASION TECHNIQUES
Course code
VICD105Credit
3Theoretical
3Practical
0Ects
5
...
VISUAL PERCEPTION AND DESIGN
Course code
VICD111Credit
3Theoretical
3Practical
0Ects
7
Visual process comprises a complex structure, dependent on the source, physiology and the entire conscience dynamics. Information based on perception is dependent on the resultant of logic and brain activities. Within the scope of Visual Perception and Design, it is aimed to improve talents and skills of the students related with perception, visual perception, visual thinking, visual analysis, design, creativity and observation. Within this perspective the course concentrates on basic and advanced elements in design and their interactions with visual perception as well as the importance of working memory and brain processes. The scope of the course also contains theoretical views about visual perception and design.
Second Semester
PSYCHOLOGY
Course code
PSYC110Credit
3Theoretical
3Practical
0Ects
6
The aim of this course is to provide an introduction to the wide range of topics covered by psychology. By the end of the course, students will be familiar with the major theories and the methods of research used to analyse behavior. These include the biological basis of psychological functions, sensation, perception and different states of consciousness. In addition to cognitive topics, the course provides an introduction to social, developmental and clinical psychology.
BASIC DESIGN-II
Course code
VICD102Credit
4Theoretical
3Practical
2Ects
7
Basic Design II introduces primary element and forces of the dynamics of visual forms and deals with the concepts of form, space, structure, texture and color as well as the basic principles of 2D and 3D design with a special emphasis on visual perception and Gestalt theory in design. Students will learn how to build up an effective composition using collage in a context, search of an effective composition detailed from coincidental typographic arrangement, introduce symbol and sign, create abstraction and pictograms, study natural objects within a design system containing measuring, extent, texture, tones, values and effective composition. Theoretical presentations about graphic and visual communication design work fields and concepts will also examined in the course.
HISTORY OF ART AND CULTURE
Course code
VICD106Credit
3Theoretical
3Practical
0Ects
5
The course focuses on the history of art and culture. In this scope History of Art and Culture introduces the developments and concepts related to development of art and culture. Variety of fields such as painting, sculpture, drama, music, literature and architecture are discussed within a socioeconomic and political context; to give the student a total understanding of a particular time and place in history. Students are expected to have an awareness about the development and chronology of the art-historical periods and of distinctive styles. Within this perspective this course starts with first human being efforts in terms of art and continues towards to the current times where art and culture interactions become more complicated and less immediate.
INTRODUCTION TO DESIGN STUDIES
Course code
VICD108Credit
3Theoretical
3Practical
0Ects
6
By examining more general problems about production, consumption, and usage and how these issues fit into a larger conversation about design and culture, this class explores several facets of design. By critically analyzing and visualizing the interactions of gender, power, ethics, status, and racism within design practices and objects, students will evaluate the relationship between design and culture. Students will read theoretical, historical, social, and political works of literature, allowing them to thoroughly examine these complex subjects. In the end, students will be able to understand and express how design studies give us a "critical" perspective on how to investigate and assess how design functions as a cultural, economic, and social form.
DIGITAL MEDIA INTERFACE DESIGN
Course code
VICD110Credit
3Theoretical
2Practical
2Ects
6
..
Third Semester
BASIC PHOTOGRAPHY
Course code
COMM231Credit
4Theoretical
3Practical
2Ects
6
This is an introductory course in photography, covering its history, aesthetics and basic techniques. The course covers practical instruction and theoretical perspectives as well as some hands-on photographic work and field trips, enabling students will prepare a portfolio of work. Students are also expected to gain a detailed historical and aesthetic knowledge concerning the development of the medium of photography, as well as technical skills and ability to take better photographs. The scope of the course also includes the development of recent revolutionary digital technologies and their effects on the medium. Within this context, both digital and analogue photography will be thoroughly examined.
FREE ELECTIVE
Course code
FREEXX1Credit
3Theoretical
3Practical
0Ects
5
FREE ELECTIVE
UNIVERSITY ELECTIVE
Course code
UNIEXX1Credit
3Theoretical
3Practical
0Ects
5
UNIVERSITY ELECTIVE
GRAPHIC DESIGN AND PRODUCTION
Course code
VICD215Credit
4Theoretical
2Practical
2Ects
7
..
DRAWING AND MODELLING
Course code
VICD221Credit
4Theoretical
3Practical
2Ects
7
..
Fourth Semester
FREE ELECTIVE
Course code
FREEXX2Credit
3Theoretical
3Practical
0Ects
5
FREE ELECTIVE
MEDIA LAW AND ETHICS
Course code
ILAW242Credit
3Theoretical
3Practical
0Ects
5
The purpose of this course is twofold: first, to discuss ethical principles and codes for various media professions such as journalism, public relations and advertising, and to discuss how these guidelines have and have not been applied in specific cases. Second, the course focuses on specific issues such as the invasion of privacy, defamation, obscenity, racial hatred, hate speech, intellectual property and copyright within the scope of media law. The course also concentrates on press freedom as well as basic knowledge of international law necessary for understanding how media law affects media institutions. Term project provides students with the opportunity to research and question local laws and regulations in the field of media and ethics in their own countries.
UNIVERSITY ELECTIVE
Course code
UNIEXX2Credit
3Theoretical
3Practical
0Ects
5
UNIVERSITY ELECTIVE
DIGITAL IMAGE PROCESSING
Course code
VICD204Credit
3Theoretical
2Practical
2Ects
7
Digital technologies has been transforming the field, communication, visual communication specifically. Products of these technologies surrounding us in our current world. Digital images and videos are developed and used for specific purposes in every fields of arts and sciences. This course knows this importance and introduces students to analytical tools and methods which are currently used in digital image processing as applied to image information for human visual perception. The general aim of the course is to explore the structure and meaning of the graphic and bitmap images; creation, editing, processing digitally for various media. Essential editing tools such as Photoshop will be taught to the students as the tools to work with. Students will be expected to use their previous design experience with their new tools.
COMMERCIAL PHOTOGRAPHY
Course code
VICD210Credit
4Theoretical
3Practical
2Ects
8
The main aim of Commercial Photography is to establish moderately advanced photographic practices geared towards an understanding of the commercial application and development of photographic skills. Commercial photography covers a wide range of photographic disciplines. In this course students learn the principles behind photographic lighting, study the art of portrait photography, or develop their time-lapse photography skills. In the Commercial Photography course, students will be able to build valuable technical, critical and business skills through lectures, seminars, tutorials, workshops and group works. The focus of commercial photography course is on commercial photography shooting and posing, plus lighting and creative techniques.
Fifth Semester
DIGITAL VIDEO PROCESSING
Course code
COMM403Credit
3Theoretical
2Practical
2Ects
6
The general aim of Digital Video Processing is to explore the structure of the video and to understand the nature of moving images and editing them digitally. Basics of digital video editing tools such as Adobe Premiere and After Effects will be given to the students as the tools to work with. Students will be expected to use their previous design experience with their new tools. Within the scope of the course spatio-temporal sampling, motion analysis, parametric motion models, motion-compensated filtering, and video processing operations including noise reduction, restoration, super-resolution, deinterlacing and video sampling structure conversion, and compression will be examined. Video segmentation and layered video representations, watermarking, video streaming, compressed-domain video processing, and digital TV will also be covered in the course.
UNIVERSITY ELECTIVE
Course code
UNIEXX3Credit
3Theoretical
3Practical
0Ects
5SUMMER TRAINING-I
Course code
VICD200Credit
0Theoretical
0Practical
0Ects
5
This is the first of the two summer training courses. It provides students with the opportunity to gain practical, real-world experience in the fields of visual communication design and to develop professional contacts that will help them as the launch their careers after graduation. Students will arrange the internships in association with the department and are required to complete a minimum of four weeks with their chosen organization, in accordance with rules and regulations set out by the faculty. After completing the internship, students will be interviewed by a panel of Visual Communication Design Department members to assess and discuss their experiences, based on the work that the student has produced at the organization and the report made by their employers.
2D ANIMATION
Course code
VICD305Credit
4Theoretical
3Practical
2Ects
5
This course prepares students for the design profession by providing opportunities to undertake project-based design briefs specific to their major studies in Graphic Design or Web Design or Motion Graphics. This course also allows students to study classically trained animated films to gain a fundamental and functional understanding of two of the major 2D digital animation software packages available: Flash and After Effects. Students will work in a simulated production environment to create a short animated film. Following their short films, students learn more about the After Effect interface through an exercise in which they create and animate a character. Lessons consist of lectures and computer laboratory applications.
ADVERTISING DESIGN
Course code
VICD307Credit
3Theoretical
2Practical
2Ects
5
Advertising Design focuses on the role of design in an advertising context. It concentrates on advertising strategy based on media and marketing realities. Students will explore specific areas of advertising, including consumer goods, consumer service and public service. Within the scope of the course, the problems of designing graphic material to sell products, services and ideas, the principles of advertising design and their applications, the preparation of roughs and comps and their presentations, a combination of effective, use of illustration, typography and photography for both communication and marketing purposes will be considered. Students are expected to select and focus on specific design in advertising industry.
AREA ELECTIVE
Course code
VICDXX1Credit
3Theoretical
3Practical
0Ects
5Sixth Semester
Research Methods for Communication
Course code
COMM366Credit
3Theoretical
3Practical
3Ects
5
An investigation of fundamentals of applied social science research techniques focusing on communication studies. In the concept of the course, research processes, theory construction and hypothesis development, basic choices in research design including focus group interviews, case studies, survey research and experimentation; sampling design; measurement and instrument design; reliability and validity in measurement, and exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis are examined.
FREE ELECTIVE
Course code
FREEXX3Credit
3Theoretical
3Practical
0Ects
5
FREE ELECTIVE
3D ANIMATION
Course code
VICD306Credit
4Theoretical
3Practical
2Ects
7
This course will teach students an overview of developing 3D animation from modelling to rendering. Students will learn the basics of surfacing, lighting, animation and modelling techniques and will explore volumetrics, and modifiers. The end of the semester, students will have created several short films, advertisements and public spots. 3D Animation is a film making technique by creating motion with picture frames coming one after another instead of using a recording technique. The course covers particularly the creation of animation using computers. Lessons consist of lectures and computer laboratory applications.
BRAND IDENTITY DESIGN
Course code
VICD324Credit
2Theoretical
2Practical
2Ects
7
..
AREA ELECTIVE
Course code
VICDXX2Credit
3Theoretical
3Practical
0Ects
5
.
Seventh Semester
SUMMER TRAINING-II
Course code
VICD300Credit
0Theoretical
0Practical
0Ects
5
This is second and final summer training course required by the department. It provides students another opportunity to gain practical experience in visual communication design departments and to develop a specialism within the field. Students will arrange the internships in association with the department and are required to complete a minimum of four weeks with their chosen organization, in accordance with rules and regulations set out by the faculty. They are encouraged to find a position that provides an alternate but complementary experience to their first internship. As before, students will be interviewed by a panel of Visual Communication Design Department members to assess and discuss their experiences, based the work the student has produced at the organization and the report made by their employers.
GRADUATION PROJECT-I
Course code
VICD401Credit
4Theoretical
3Practical
2Ects
7
This course, which is the first step of the Graduation Projects II, is designed for students to show their final development in specific projects. It prepares students both for a large-scale exhibition and a professional portfolio. Students, with the assistance of their lecturer, will develop a concept and then choose the most suitable medium for their projects. There will be in-class discussions on how to utilize the concept in the best possible way, and treat the subject matter and material. After completing their specific projects students are expected to show and defend their work in front of a jury which will be established by the department.
ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE APPLICATIONS
Course code
VICD421Credit
3Theoretical
2Practical
2Ects
7
....
AREA ELECTIVE
Course code
VICDXX3Credit
3Theoretical
3Practical
0Ects
5AREA ELECTIVE IV
Course code
VICDXX4Credit
3Theoretical
3Practical
0Ects
5
AREA ELECTIVE IV
Eighth Semester
FREE ELECTIVE
Course code
FREEXX4Credit
3Theoretical
3Practical
0Ects
5
FREE ELECTIVE
GRADUATION PROJECT-II
Course code
VICD402Credit
4Theoretical
3Practical
2Ects
8
This course is the conclusion of Graduation Project I. This course concentrates on individual projects in a wide range of interdisciplinary fields of visual arts and design such as video-art, multimedia, and installation. Students, with the assistance of their lecturer, will develop a concept and then choose the most suitable medium for their projects. There will be in-class discussions on how to utilize the concept in the best possible way, and treat the subject matter and material. Students are expected to produce works of a professional level. After completing their specific projects students are expected to show and defend their works in front of a jury which will be established by the department.
ADVANCED 3D MODELLING
Course code
VICD408Credit
4Theoretical
3Practical
2Ects
8
This course is designed to introduce the essentials of 3D modelling methods. The aim is that students prepare a 10 second TV commercial using 3D technique and through this study experience the process from design to the end product. Within the context of this course, 3D geometric shapes, texture, surface channels and surface mapping, procedural textures, image mapping, light types and settings, camera settings and use, lighting as well as a variety of rendering options, including ray-tracing, will be presented. Students are expected to develop specific projects using technical knowledge, and related software like Adobe Creative Suite, 3D Max, and Adobe After Effects.
AREA ELECTIVE V
Course code
VICDXX5Credit
3Theoretical
3Practical
0Ects
5
AREA ELECTIVE V
AREA ELECTIVE
Course code
VICDXX6Credit
3Theoretical
3Practical
0Ects
5
AREA ELECTIVE
Elective Courses
FILM ANALYSIS
Course code
RTVC342Credit
3Theoretical
3Practical
0Ects
3
This course is designed to provide students with an introduction to film analysis. Students will examine the ways in which meaning is constructed in cinema by looking at the various techniques employed by filmmakers and the manner in which these elements operate as a formal system. The course will stress the importance of close textual analysis of individual scenes, while also emphasizing the need to look at films as a whole. A range of films will be viewed in class, although for the sake of coherence the majority will be Hollywood productions from the 1940s and 1950s, in particular the cinema of Alfred Hitchcock.
INTEGRATED MARKETING COMMUNICATION
Course code
VICD317Credit
3Theoretical
3Practical
3Ects
5
The market has been divided according to demographics, geographic, behaviorist and psychological segments. Analyzing all these segments, attitudes and relations via products or services is the main issues of marketing. Using marketing mix elements and searching solutions for current marketing problems is almost impossible. On the other hand, marketing communications tools such as advertising, public relations, sales promotions, direct marketing, the points of purchase materials, trade fairs, sponsorship marketing, event marketing and issues management must be considered according to consumer decision making process. This course will focus on the strategic integration of marketing mix elements and communication.
DRAWING AND CLAY MODELLING
Course code
GADS103Credit
4Theoretical
3Practical
2Ects
7
This course focuses on the basic elements of drawing and clay modeling. The Drawing and Clay Modelling course enables students to learn the process of creating things out of clay or employing sculptural methods through observation. It seeks to promote awareness of the utilization of source material and innovative ideas by developing a final three-dimensional piece from sketches and maquettes. Students will acquire abilities to see and comprehend three-dimensional form by the end of the course. Students are introduced to the basics of typography and graphical presentation of their ideas, and later on familiarized with the methods of processing a model based on their drawings.
CREATIVITY IN ADVERTISING
Course code
PRAD324Credit
3Theoretical
2Practical
2Ects
6
Creativity in Advertising course focuses on the question of what makes an ad creative and helps the students to recognize that without creativity there will be no effective advertising. The course examines the concept of creativity and various creative approaches and styles employed in different forms of advertising. The students will examine and critically reflect on a variety of advertisements. They will also design their own ads and experience the challenges in coming up with a creative idea. In the end of the course it is aimed that the students have a solid idea why creativity is so important in advertising.
ADVERTISING CAMPAIGN DESIGN
Course code
VICD411Credit
3Theoretical
3Practical
0Ects
6
This course aims to provide students with insights on how to design an advertising campaign, integrating knowledge they have acquired in previous advertising-related courses. First, by developing an actual advertising campaign from scratch, students will experience how all the functional areas of advertising (research, media, creative thinking) work together in the process of creating an advertising plan. Students will design creative works (e.g., preparing a message for ads, writing scripts, a hard copy layout for print ads), and make decisions on media placement. Secondly, students will be responsible for developing a public relations campaign proposal from inception to completion, synthesizing the information they have learned earlier in the program.
FREEHAND DRAWING-I
Course code
VICD103Credit
3Theoretical
2Practical
2Ects
4
Freehand Drawing I aims to teach students to improve their knowledge about the basic principles of drawing such as line, volume, composition and perspective with an emphasis on observational, descriptive and analytical drawing. Students also improve their freehand drawing techniques. Students in this course will have the opportunity to work experimentally with a variety of artistic materials and presentation techniques. Geometric figures, still-life studies of human anatomy and the basic drawing techniques, as well as fundamental concepts of drawing are introduced. The course will also focuses on the structural properties of objects of different sizes, progressively, with a special interest on strengthening the relationship between eye-brain-hand and their knowledge to use in visual communication design.
CINEMATOGRAPHY
Course code
RTVC253Credit
3Theoretical
3Practical
0Ects
5
The main aim of Cinematography course is to provide in-depth information to students about cinematic narrative, basic components of cinematography as well as provide an understanding of the contributions of these components in the creation of meaning in cinema. Students will learn basic concepts of cinematography, and deepen their knowledge in cinema terminology. In this course, traditional and modern narratives and their features, cinematographic concepts, shooting, scene and sequence, camera, aperture features, technical and creative features of light and motion, lens, composition, colors and filters, and how these elements contribute to meaning creation will be discussed. Students taking this course are expected to gain the ability to apply the cinematographic techniques they learned in different projects such as advertising and fictional / documentary films.
PORTFOLIO DESIGN
Course code
VICD404Credit
3Theoretical
3Practical
0Ects
A strong professional portfolio can also provide an important foundation for the development of a successful future design career. With this in mind this course is designed for the students to develop and refine a body of design work that constitutes a professional visual communication design portfolio. The concept of what a portfolio and CV are and how they should be in order to fulfill their definitions. Organization of the order of works to be presented. Within the scope of the course professional issues related to the business of visual communication design are will also be discussed. Students are expected to used their knowledge that they learn in the precious courses.
PAGE DESIGN-II
Course code
JOUR432Credit
3Theoretical
3Practical
0Ects
6
This course extends and deepens the design skills which students have gained from the prerequisite Page Design I course. Through the completion of practical exercises and hands-on instruction, students gain greater experience and competence in the use of industry-standard design software. Particular emphasis is placed on the creation of original design work for print and online publication and the integration of this design with writing and photography which students have prepared in previous departmental courses. The course will be assessed through a portfolio of work reflecting the particular specializations which individual student journalists have developed throughout the degree program.
POLITICAL COMMUNICATION
Course code
PRAD453Credit
3Theoretical
3Practical
0Ects
3
This course introduces the political communication field to students. It focuses on the nature and functions of political communication, and evaluates the role of the media in political communication. The concept of political communication is examined and the theoretical, conceptual and historical processes that shape the field are discussed. Role of the media in democratic societies, freedom of the press, and the agenda setting is explored. Also, political communication campaigns, political marketing, political advertising, and political public relations are discussed in the course. By the end of the course, students are expected to be able to explain concepts of political communication, political advertising, political public relations, political marketing, and to be able to exemplify and comment on political campaigns.
FILM GENRES
Course code
RTVC466Credit
3Theoretical
3Practical
0Ects
5
This course is designed to explicate the formation and developments of film genres. It also addresses theoretical approaches of film genres and looks at film genres as artistic and cultural forms. In this course, the development of major film genres (including the western, horror, science fiction, comedy, musicals, crime films and animation) will be covered. The genres will be analysed in relation to both socio-cultural structures and with industry and audience practices. In this way students will develop a solid understanding cultural representation in film, stimulating critical, creative and independent ways of thinking about the role of the media in general
PHOTOJOURNALISM
Course code
JOUR342Credit
3Theoretical
3Practical
0Ects
5
This course aims to introduce the various aspects of telling stories via photography. Building on previous photography courses, it emphasizes the differences between photography and photojournalism. The course focuses on the development, features, pioneers and genres of photojournalism, and analyses how photojournalism has become an institutionalized part of journalism in general. The course content addresses the technological and aesthetic dimensions of photojournalism, the careers of important photojournalists, the impact of news photography, and the ethics of digitally manipulating news photographs. Special attention given to the rules and methods of cutline writing, which is complementary for both the photograph and story.
DOCUMENTARY PRODUCTION
Course code
RTVC302Credit
3Theoretical
2Practical
2Ects
5
This course is designed to introduce the development of documentary film in terms of its history, its genres and its pioneers. Students will also consider the relation between reality and representation, and the distinction between fiction and documentary filmmaking. This course integrates the basic historical, theoretical and practical approaches to the basic techniques of documentary production in different mass media tools. The historical diversification and evolution of the documentary film and television will be emphasized in the course. With documentary demonstrations, discussions of sample documentary films, and out of class assignments, this course provides the fundamental theoretical knowledge and skills that are required for documentary production.
FUNDAMENTALS OF TV PRODUCTION
Course code
VICD320Credit
3Theoretical
3Practical
0Ects
6
This course is designed to teach students the fundamentals of television production by providing detailed theoretical and practical knowledge about production stages (pre-production, production, post-production) of variety of television productions. Course content includes, the fundamental concepts and terms, classification of television programs and basic stages of production including treatments, storyboarding and script writing, budgeting, production considerations including rehearsal and shooting stages and post-production stages as editing, graphics, sales, marketing, and distribution. This is also a practical course with an extensive use of production and post-production facilities. Throughout the course, camera operation techniques, lighting and video switching, master control, and studio operations are emphasized.
GLOBAL JOURNALISM
Course code
JOUR433Credit
3Theoretical
3Practical
0Ects
5
This course will encourage students to address the issues facing modern journalists and news organizations working in the international arena, both in practical and critical terms. The course will examine the ways in which globalization has influenced processes of news gathering and dissemination, the practical and ethical challenges which journalists encounter in an international context, and the relationship between journalistic practices and emerging media technologies. Students will also make comparative studies of individual news stories, examining the ways in which the same news events are reported in different ways by different new organizations according to their dominant ideological positions.
EDITING
Course code
RTVC365Credit
3Theoretical
2Practical
2Ects
5
This course is designed to introduce basic theories and applications of cinema and television films post-production processes and editing for different film genres. It also aims to promote aesthetic creativity and awareness, as well as the basic knowledge and skills required for using and arranging visual language effectively. Course content includes the history and theories of editing; editing terminology; motion and dialogue editing; the synchronization of video, music and sound; and special effects. This course also teaches students how to select video footage considering a basic visual vocabulary, select correct audio clips that support video, utilize graphic elements, colour and positioning, and to assemble and trim elements to create certain moods and emotions for audiences.
JOURNALISM GENRES
Course code
JOUR454Credit
3Theoretical
3Practical
0Ects
5
This course examines the major genres featured in modern journalism in a variety of media contexts, including financial reporting, sports journalism, health journalism, arts reviewing, fashion journalism, science reporting, and lifestyle writing. Weekly lessons are based around case studies in s representative sample of these genres and will analyze a range of written examples. Students are encouraged to develop a specialism and produce original writing within it, which will be examines via a portfolio of original written work. The course will also feature contributions from local professional journalists who specialize in the journalism genres under consideration.
CONCEPT DEVELOPMENT
Course code
VICD415Credit
3Theoretical
3Practical
0Ects
4
Concept development renders student's own vision and aims to stimulate her generating an idea, a concept in her work. The course is coaching that extends from a personal to practical and occupational levels following from the project student would like to realise. Course runs through the coaching direction the student necessitates and focuses on it. Developing concept is examined within the relationship between the suggested, apparent idea and its practicability, the medium student works with. In the end of the course it is aimed that the students have a solid idea why creativity is so important in visual communication design.
SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY PROJECTS MANAGEMENT
Course code
PRAD461Credit
3Theoretical
3Practical
0Ects
5
This course is designed to teach students the importance of social responsibility projects and provide opportunity for the students to gain both theoretical and practical skills in designing and implementing social responsibility projects. The students will engage in developing social responsibility projects which contribute to the betterment of society and provide solutions to various problems related to social, cultural, educational, artistic and sporting aspects of the community. This course will require students to work as groups to design campaigns, write a campaign budget, and complete related steps in the realization of their project, which will finally be presented and defended in class.
FILM PRODUCTION TECHNIQUES
Course code
RTVC353Credit
3Theoretical
2Practical
2Ects
5
The main aim of Film Production Techniques course is to expand the knowledge and skills of students with camera work, acting, lighting, sound recording, editing, creating visual and sound effects in post-production. Within the scope of the course, students will apply film production stages, beginning with preparation stage of films, production and post-production stages, gain experience in teamwork in the film production process and find an opportunity to direct actors and practice in the composition of the image, camera techniques, lighting and editing aesthetics. In addition, students taking the Film Production Techniques course will also have knowledge about the application of professional ethical rules in the film making process.
PUBLIC ADDRESS
Course code
COMM322Credit
3Theoretical
3Practical
3Ects
5
This course is designed to examine the principles of public address and teach the students the main elements and factors which result in a dynamic and effective speech. Besides speaking skills, the course aims to help students to improve their listening skills so that they are able to evaluate and critique speeches they listen to insightfully. The course provides opportunity for students to significantly improve their public speaking skills by practicing and delivering speeches and presentations in a safe environment with feedback from their peers as well as their lecturer so that they will be able to critically examine their own and others’ speeches through interactive practice.
INVESTIGATIVE REPORTING
Course code
JOUR462Credit
3Theoretical
3Practical
0Ects
5
This course will train students in the principle techniques of investigative reporting in a variety of media contexts. Weekly classes will focus on the processes and practices of journalistic investigation and their application in relation to crime, politics, legal processes, corporate activities and consumer affairs. Students will also consider the legal and ethical aspects of investigative journalism. Carefully selected case studies will examine major examples of investigative journalism and students will be encouraged to produce their own investigative reports. The course will also feature occasional contributions from professional journalists who have conducted their own investigative work in the local media.
CONTEMPORARY WORLD CINEMA
Course code
RTVC431Credit
3Theoretical
3Practical
0Ects
5
This course offers a partial survey of key developments in cinema culture over the past ten years. Rather than attempting to examine world cinema in its entirety, the focus will be limited to their production in Europe, the Middle East and Asia. The films under consideration might be regarded as outstanding or ground-breaking examples of film art, but they can also be understood as products of specific cultures. The films are therefore being studied in their cultural and historical contexts. Although this course progresses on a largely country-by-country basis, it also emphasises the globalised nature of contemporary cinema and the transnational arrangements that underpin many films produced around the world.
TV GENRES
Course code
RTVC411Credit
3Theoretical
3Practical
0Ects
5
This course will provide a critical overview of television genres and will examine them from practical and theoretical perspectives. Students will analyse a variety of fiction and non-fiction television genres, emphasising their historical, cultural and economic contexts. Students will also consider the ways television genres have changed, divided and combined over time. Attention will also be paid to the processes through which genre classifications are produced and the media discourses which generate them. Sample genres addressed and discussed during the course include the crime show, the prestige drama, the soap opera, reality TV, news programming, and also the quiz show.
INTEGRATED MARKETING COMMUNICATION
Course code
PRAD428Credit
3Theoretical
3Practical
0Ects
5
This course aims to provide students with insights into the coordination and integration of marketing communication tools, avenues, and sources into a seamless program which maximizes the impact on consumers at a minimal cost. This integration is studied in relation to a firm’s business-to-business, marketing channel, customer focused, and internally directed communications in their entirety. Integrating advertising and other marketing communications becomes extremely important in highly competitive trade arenas and advertising alone does not guarantee sales. This course will thus enable students to understand the importance of the strategic integration of marketing mix elements, as well as the value of strategic communication in gaining new customers.
MARKETING RESEARCH IN ADVERTISING
Course code
PRAD429Credit
3Theoretical
3Practical
0Ects
5
This course introduces the students to the principles and practices of marketing research methods. The students will learn that good marketing decisions require solid marketing research and will better understand the role of marketing research in developing marketing strategy. The course will cover both quantitative and qualitative research methods and will also provide opportunity for practical hands-on work. As the final project the students will be asked to design a research project, collect data, analyse their data, submit a report of their findings. They will also present their work to the class where each project will be evaluated by peers and the lecturer.
VISUAL LITERACY
Course code
RTVC467Credit
3Theoretical
3Practical
0Ects
5
This course introduces basic visual elements and addresses the contribution of these elements to visual expression and the reproduction process of reality via audio-visual media. Course content includes the theoretical background of visual literacy, theories of cognitive learning and its relation with learning technologies, message decoding and commenting practices, the usages of images in mass media, an the effects of visual literacy on communication processes. This course includes discussion sessions designed to improve students’ ability to generate and interpret effective visual messages, including visual thinking and learning skills, reading comprehensions based on different theoretical approaches to visual culture, and the basic principles and concepts of visual language.
ONLINE JOURNALISM
Course code
JOUR456Credit
3Theoretical
3Practical
0Ects
4
The aim of this course is to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of new communication technologies and their impact on journalistic practices. The rise of internet journalism and its correlation with citizen journalism are studied in detail. A short history and the reasons for the emergence of these new media forms will also be examined. Following a theoretical and historical study of online journalism, students will be asked to use the internet as an environment for journalistic practice. Students are expected to design an online newspaper or magazine as a project for assessment, incorporating materials and skills which they have developed in other department courses.
SOCIAL MEDIA APPLICATIONS
Course code
PRAD459Credit
3Theoretical
3Practical
0Ects
5
Within the scope of this course, the students will learn the development of social media as a communications tool, the societal effects of social media, public relations strategies and applications through social media, reputation and crisis management in social media. Students will also gain information on the process of assessment and evaluation in social media and the tools and platforms that can be used for this process. At the end of the semester, the students are expected to be able to explain the process of communication in social media, explain different social media tools and their uses, describe the use of social media in the field of public relations and explain the analysis, assessment and evaluation processes in social media.
CASE STUDIES IN MARKETING COMMUNICATION
Course code
ADPR442Credit
3Theoretical
3Practical
0Ects
This course aims to strengthen the students’ understanding of concepts and tools for marketing communication processes by examining a variety of real-world marketing communication cases. The course is designed to provide students opportunity to examine and evaluate different cases. They are required to do readings and research on each case and be prepared to come to class to discuss and reflect on the case drawing on their background knowledge. The course aims to help students understand how marketing communication tools help build brand value and be able to assess the role of marketing communications in the world of advertising, promotions and public relations.
PUBLIC RELATIONS CASE STUDIES
Course code
ADPR350Credit
3Theoretical
3Practical
0Ects
5
The course examines a variety of real-world public relations cases and analyzes how public relations professionals manage different public relations situations in corporate, government and nonprofit organizations. Group discussion of cases in an interactive class atmosphere is essential for this class where each student is expected to have read assigned case material before the class and be prepared to participate actively in case discussions. The course allows the students to utilize their background knowledge gained in previous public relations courses and expand their knowledge by examining several successful and unsuccessful public relations responses to organizational issues, problems, challenges and opportunities.
JOURNALISM CASE STUDIES
Course code
JOUR450Credit
3Theoretical
3Practical
0Ects
5
This course aims to develop students' judgment on contemporary issues in the media through an interactive, discussion-based method. The course is based around case studies which offer real-life dilemmas, and journalism students put themselves in the shoes of reporters, editors or publishers in order to address the issues at hand. Students are also expected to analyze the situation, identify the problem, try to find a solution, and defend their views. Instead of offering simple solutions, students are encouraged to facilitate discussion and create an environment to contribute and learn from each other. With real-life issues, they are able to grapple with the kind of complex problems they may face later in their careers.
HISTORY OF CINEMA
Course code
RTVC361Credit
3Theoretical
3Practical
0Ects
5
This course is designed to equip students with a foundational knowledge of film history which they will be able to develop either through further academic study or though their own initiative. The course provides an overview of the history of cinema, focusing on major cultural and creative traditions that have influenced the global development of the medium from the late nineteenth century to the present. The course topics will include Soviet cinema in the 1920s, Italian Neorealism in the 1940s, the French New Wave in the 1950s and 1960s, and the emergence of the digital technologies in the present era.
AESTHETICS
Course code
VICD420Credit
3Theoretical
3Practical
0Ects
4
Aesthetics as a science and a theory. Reaching the level of ‘aesthetic’ perception. Aesthetics is a philosophical science that privileges sensual perception as suggested by Baumgarten and the consciousness of the aesthetic approach is an essential quality for a designer. It is also understood as the philosophy of art concerning the fundamental question ‘What is art?’ In this scope philosophers have written works basically related to this question since the ancient Greek civilisation. This course aims to build consciousness and create an awareness of aesthetic theories and contemporary issues in aesthetics which is necessary for developing unique projects in visual communication design.
LIGHTING DESIGN
Course code
VICD410Credit
3Theoretical
2Practical
2Ects
5
This course focuses on the theories and mechanics of light and colour, including basic lighting technology, the variety of different types of lighting equipment and control boards, the fundamental elements of lighting design, and the application of lighting in screen composition. This course is designed to address the aesthetics of dramatic screen lighting and to develop and an understanding of lighting design. The course also covers the conventions of screen lighting, the characteristics of light and visual perception, and the production of lighting systems. This is a practical course that aims to enable students to develop and implement independent lighting design projects.
THEORIES OF MASS COMMUNICATION
Course code
COMM212Credit
3Theoretical
3Practical
0Ects
5
Theories of Mass Communication course examine major theoretical and research trends in the field of mass communication. It aims to help students to develop awareness and basic understanding of a broad range of theories which direct mass media research as well as to encourage them to make associations between these theories in real world situations. Theories of Mass Communication opens with a discussion of the concepts of communication and theory, moves to an overview of the history of mass communication theory, and progresses to an analysis of various mass communication theories and models, ranging from traditional approaches to more recent critical perspectives.
WRITING FOR MASS COMMUNICATION
Course code
COMM222Credit
3Theoretical
3Practical
0Ects
5
This course examines the importance of writing in mass communication. Students are introduced to the primary methods of writing for newspapers, advertising, public relations, and radio and television broadcasting. News writing and headline writing techniques are studied, with particular emphasis on the inverted pyramid method and the writing of summary lead paragraphs by evaluating the importance of news elements. Students also study the techniques of writing press releases and learn their significance in public relations, the principles of writing copy and slogans for advertisements, the basics of writing for radio, television broadcasts, and writing for online publications.
INFORMATION COMMUNICATION AND TELECONFERENCING
Course code
VICD314Credit
3Theoretical
2Practical
2Ects
3
Communication, human communication and interaction. Communication through computers, visual telephones, cable television, information systems and networks; and Information Communication. Groupware, cooperation and augmentation of concepts. Communication practices in journalism, medicine and business administration; remote computer aided instruction and workgroups. This course studies informatics, science communication and teleconferencing and includes the method science in communication, group working and distribution of labor, heterogeneous multi media, visual telephones, computers, electronic information and cable television. Network topologies, switching, and protocol fundamentals and architectures are presented and compared using the OSI model, TCP/IP, SNA, Appletalk, etc. Data link functions are described including framing, and error and flow control techniques, X.25, Frame Relay, SMDS, and ATM packet technologies are introduced.
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY AND DESIGN
Course code
VICD406Credit
3Theoretical
2Practical
2Ects
7
Information Technology & Design is designed to develop technical skills in terms of information technologies and processes used in communication design. It consists two aspects: theory, and practice. Theoretical aspect includes different types of technologies and medias used in the communication fields. Technical aspect of the course is based on project based workshops that will assist the students in strategies and techniques for selecting and implementing multiple technologies and medias in one project, utilizing object-based programing software tools for real time audio and video, real time 3D, network applications. It also covers the processes of collecting, organising, analysing, storing and retrieving, processing, transmitting and receiving, and displaying, as well as the technologies that support them.
INTRODUCTION TO CULTURAL STUDIES
Course code
COMM144Credit
3Theoretical
3Practical
0Ects
4
This course introduces students to the principle analytical techniques and interpretive strategies are used in the field of cultural studies. Designed for the students at beginning of their degrees in media and communications subjects, the course places particular emphasis on interdisciplinary approaches to the study of culture and will provide a conceptual foundation for scholarly work in a variety of related areas. The course will address to the work of major figures related to Cultural Studies, including Michel Foucault, Stuart Hall and Edward Said, and will consider topics related to their work, such as the representational work of the media, the interpretative role of the audience, and the relationship between culture and power.
SOCIAL MEDIA IN COMMUNICATION
Course code
COMM254Credit
3Theoretical
3Practical
0Ects
5
This course explores the history, rise and growth of computer-mediated communication technologies known as “social media,” – including Facebook, Twitter and YouTube – as a 21st century communication practice. Throughout the course, various social media tools and their application in current media will be addressed and current habits in social media will be discussed. This course also examines relevant social theory, including technology studies, communication theory and cultural studies to critically evaluate the effect of social media on relationships, activism, branding, politics and news media. This course also focuses on content creation and how to build content that performs well in social media.
CAMERA AND LIGHTING TECHNIQUES FOR CINEMA AND TELEVISION
Course code
RTVC214Credit
3Theoretical
2Practical
2Ects
6
This course aims to teach students the basic principles of cinematographic lighting and the use of the camera as a means of visual expression, camera angles, preparation of shooting plans, etc. both theoretically and practically. Within the scope of the course, the basic working principles, types and accessories of the video camera; camera angles and movements; visual aesthetics and digital effects; basic lighting principles, lighting equipment and their characteristics are discussed. In this course, students have the opportunity to practice using light and camera and sample applications are also examined. Students who take the course will gain basic knowledge about the technological development of cinema and television, gain professional technical skills regarding camera and light usage and learn professional terminology.
SKETCHING AND STORYBOARD FOR GAME DESIGNERS
Course code
GADS104Credit
3Theoretical
2Practical
2Ects
8
Sketching and Storyboard for Game Designers course aims to introduce students to the specific demands of story development and writing for video games. Whereas narrative in film and television is linear, game narratives are generally interactive and nonlinear. As such, different techniques must be used in the conception, writing, and presentation of narrative scripts for various game platforms. Students will study narrative and writing in existing games across a variety of genres and will be asked to develop their scripts. To present their story ideas visually, students will also study the industry practice of storyboarding before going into the production stage.
TRNC citizens and TR citizen candidate students who have completed their entire high school education in TRNC. They are placed in undergraduate programs in line with their success in the CIU Student Placement and Scholarship Ranking Exam and the programs they prefer.
Students who are successful in the exam can register from the TRNC Marketing Office.
Applicants can directly apply online to our undergraduate programs by using the application portal. Please fill in your details correctly and upload all the required documents listed on the last page of the application form.
Required documents;
- Completed application form,
- Higher/Secondary Certificate or equivalents (e.g. O/A’Level, WAEC/NECO)
- Evidence of English Language competence: TOEFL (65 IBT) or IELTS (5.5). Students without these documents will take the CIU English proficiency exam on campus following arrival,
- Scanned copy of international passport/birth certificate,
- Fully completed and signed CIU Rules and Regulations document (which can be downloaded during the online application).
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Tuition Fees are determined at the beginning of each academic year. Candidate students who are entitled to enroll in CIU can learn their fees in line with the Tuition Fee Calculation system.
Program Objectives
The educational objectives of the Visual Communication Design program are as follows:
PEO1: To develop proficiency in design principles and practices, students will apply human-centered research to create brand identities, wayfinding systems, publications, packaging, interactive media, web/mobile interfaces, and data visualizations.
PEO2: To foster critical thinking and problem-solving skills, students will develop visual reasoning, organizational skills, and information theory to create visuals that effectively communicate with diverse audiences.
PEO3: To encourage interdisciplinary collaboration, students will integrate liberal arts, humanities and sciences to foster cross-disciplinary collaboration to address evolving market challenges.
PEO4: To enhance technical competence, students will master advanced computing and digital media tools to produce high-quality visual communications that meet professional standards.
PEO5: To understand historical and theoretical contexts, students will gain a deep understanding of the historical development of visual communication and its role in society.
PEO6: To prepare for professional practice, students will undertake internships, capstone projects, and portfolio development to become ready for careers in design across various sectors.
Program Outcomes
PO1: Have knowledge which is supported by up-to-date primary and secondary course books and application tools in the field of Visual Communication Design
PO2: Have the technical knowledge necessary for the field of Visual Communication Design
PO3: Have knowledge about universal human rights, social justice, quality management, environmental protection, and workplace health.
PO4: S/he visualizes imagined things in a coherent structure
PO5: S/he defines the problems related to communication and finds possible solutions for these problems.
PO6: S/he has skills to manage a project/work related to Visual Communication Design independently.
PO7: S/he develops and applies projects and activities related with his/her social environment with an awareness of social responsibility.
PO8: S/he designates and manages the requirements and processes of learning.
PO9: S/he, equipped with advanced knowledge and skills in Visual Communication Design education, who interprets and evaluates data, identifies and analyses problems and finds solutions based on research and facts.
PO10: S/he can take responsibility as an individual and a team member in complex and unforeseen problems related to Visual Communication Design projects.
PO11: S/he plans, manages and finishes media content under time restrictions.
PO12: S/he approaches advanced knowledge and skills from a critical perspective.
PO13: S/he is aware that the Visual Communication Design Department has close ties with new technological developments and also aware of the importance of pursuing these developments which have vital importance for creating new media content.
PO14: S/he is a person who informs and expresses thoughts for possible solutions related with Visual Communication Design contents prepared for related individuals and organizations.
PO15: S/he shares developments and data related to Visual Communication Design with specialists and non-specialists
PO16: S/he acts in Visual Communication Design projects in accordance with social, scientific, cultural and ethical norms.