Pre-Baccalaureate Studies in Visual Communications
Visualize your future with Pre-Baccalaureate Studies in Visual Communications. Create a canvas for your career.
Overview for Pre-Baccalaureate Studies in Visual Communications
The pre-baccalaureate studies program is available to students who are accepted by NTID and are close to, but not fully ready for, direct entry into a baccalaureate-level program through one of the other colleges of RIT. It is a bridge program for qualified students, based on academic transcripts, scores on admissions tests, and other evidence that supports a reasonable expectation of success in baccalaureate course work. Qualified students who are undecided as to a program of study may choose the career exploration studies program.
Enrollment in the pre-baccalaureate studies program is appropriate for students who need to further develop mathematics, English, or discipline-related skills. The academic program is flexible and individualized and allows students to focus on needed skills while concurrently progressing toward their chosen field of study. Students may take courses taught by NTID faculty, as well as entry-level courses taught in other RIT colleges. While in the program, students receive academic advising as well as career counseling.
Students cannot receive a degree in pre-baccalaureate studies. Rather, they will apply for admission into a baccalaureate program as soon as they are academically ready and the college offering their chosen baccalaureate program reviews their application for admission. After completing an entire academic year in the program, a student must transfer to a degree-granting program in NTID or one of the other colleges of RIT.
-
Apply for Fall 2025
First-year students can apply for Early Decision II by Jan. 1 to get an admissions and financial aid assessment by mid-January.
Curriculum for 2024-2025 for Pre-Baccalaureate Studies in Visual Communications
Current Students: See Curriculum Requirements
Pre-Baccalaureate Studies, Visual Communications Studies (American Crafts, Art, and Design), typical course sequence
| Course | Sem. Cr. Hrs. | |
|---|---|---|
| First Year | ||
| NAIS-120 | Principles of Design and Color Students will be introduced to the basic elements of two-dimensional monochromatic and color design, compositional principles, and approaches to analysis of design problems. Techniques for gathering resources to work toward possible design solutions and visualization of design concepts through the use of idea sketches to final comprehensive layouts. Color theory will be introduced. Students will also utilize basic design vocabulary to participate in critiques for the purpose of analyzing their own and other students' work. This course provides students in non-creative technical majors as well as those pursuing more creative endeavors within the graphic arts field with a fundamental overview and understanding of the design process to expand critical awareness of the importance of good design. (NTID Supported Students.) Lec/Lab 5 (Fall, Spring). |
3 |
| NAIS-130 | Raster and Vector Graphics This course introduces students to the skills needed for the successful production and manipulation of raster and vector images using image creation and production software. Students will work in bitmap and vector applications, producing and editing with the tools and techniques offered by the software programs such as selection techniques, basic layer controls, digital masking, image correction and enhancement. Additional topics will include the relevance of image size, resolution and file format specifications when working with raster and vector images. Comprehension and correct usage of terminology and concepts are emphasized. (NTID Supported Students.) Lec/Lab 5 (Fall, Spring). |
3 |
| NAIS-140 | Graphic Design and Typography I Students will learn how to work through steps of the graphic design process, starting with the identification and research of design problems, and the intended message and the target audience, to development of basic graphic design solutions presented visually through clear, well-executed layouts created by both traditional and electronic means. Fundamental graphic design and typographic principles, elements, techniques and vocabulary used in design problem solving will be introduced. Students in this course will also learn about areas/categories of graphic design, creating examples such as posters, book/CD covers and logos. Topics covering selecting appropriate printing papers, professional practices, psychology of color, and critique methods will also be introduced. (Prerequisites: Prerequisites: This class is restricted to NTID supported students that have completed NGRP-120 or NAIS-120 or equivalent course and NAIS-130 or equivalent course with a minimum grade of C.) Lec/Lab 5 (Fall, Spring). |
3 |
| NCAR-010 | Freshman Seminar The course provides incoming deaf and hard-of-hearing students admitted to NTID undergraduate programs with opportunities to develop/enhance academic skills, personal awareness, and community involvement in order to maximize their college experience. Students will have opportunities to explore and navigate the college environment, develop/reinforce academic skills, and participate in experiential learning opportunities while establishing meaningful connections with faculty, staff and peers. The course promotes the development of plans for ongoing growth and involvement in class and in the RIT/NTID and/or broader community. (NTID Supported Students.) Lec/Lab 2 (Fall, Spring). |
0 |
| NGRD-111 | Drawing I This course is an introduction to freehand drawing of basic forms, with an emphasis on perspective, including one-point and two-point techniques, still life studies and figure drawing. Drawing principles, materials, and techniques will be introduced. Still life study will be applied using perspective concepts, and composition, including tonal values and textures. Figure drawing will be focused on the study of line, gesture, contour, construction, proportion and tonal values. (NTID Supported Students.) Lec/Lab 5 (Fall, Spring). |
3 |
| NGRD-115 | Visual Idea Development This course gives students the opportunity to see themselves, their experiences and their environment as sources of creativity, through a variety of activities which will include classroom discussions; videos of artists; visiting a gallery; keeping documented written and illustrated journals, sketchbooks; and working with a team to do a project. Students learn strategies for developing concepts and organization of thought processes as well as systems to formulate solutions to design problems. The library is used for development of research skills for written and visual content. (NTID Supported Students.) Lec/Lab 5 (Fall). |
3 |
| NGRD-211 | Drawing II This course continues the principles and skills developed in Drawing I, with special emphasis on the human form, including proportion, shading, light and dark, head/facial features, sustained study, and the use of figure within a composition. This course extends the various applications learned in the previous drawing and applies them to still life, drapery studies, and the human form within various environments. The use of the sketchbook will be emphasized for development of composition skills; students will use the library and other resources and will further explore various kinds of drawing materials. (Prerequisites: This class is restricted to NTID supported students that have completed NGRD-111 or equivalent course.) Lec/Lab 5 (Spring). |
3 |
General Education Courses |
12 | |
Elective |
3 | |
| Total Semester Credit Hours | 33 |
|
Please see the General Education Requirements for more information.
Note: Portfolio of original artwork is required to determine admission. See the College of Art and Design support coordinator for further information.
Pre-Baccalaureate Studies, Visual Communications Studies (Photographic Arts and Sciences, BFA degree), typical course sequence
| Course | Sem. Cr. Hrs. | |
|---|---|---|
| First Year | ||
| NAIS-120 | Principles of Design and Color Students will be introduced to the basic elements of two-dimensional monochromatic and color design, compositional principles, and approaches to analysis of design problems. Techniques for gathering resources to work toward possible design solutions and visualization of design concepts through the use of idea sketches to final comprehensive layouts. Color theory will be introduced. Students will also utilize basic design vocabulary to participate in critiques for the purpose of analyzing their own and other students' work. This course provides students in non-creative technical majors as well as those pursuing more creative endeavors within the graphic arts field with a fundamental overview and understanding of the design process to expand critical awareness of the importance of good design. (NTID Supported Students.) Lec/Lab 5 (Fall, Spring). |
3 |
| NAIS-130 | Raster and Vector Graphics This course introduces students to the skills needed for the successful production and manipulation of raster and vector images using image creation and production software. Students will work in bitmap and vector applications, producing and editing with the tools and techniques offered by the software programs such as selection techniques, basic layer controls, digital masking, image correction and enhancement. Additional topics will include the relevance of image size, resolution and file format specifications when working with raster and vector images. Comprehension and correct usage of terminology and concepts are emphasized. (NTID Supported Students.) Lec/Lab 5 (Fall, Spring). |
3 |
| NAIS-140 | Graphic Design and Typography I Students will learn how to work through steps of the graphic design process, starting with the identification and research of design problems, and the intended message and the target audience, to development of basic graphic design solutions presented visually through clear, well-executed layouts created by both traditional and electronic means. Fundamental graphic design and typographic principles, elements, techniques and vocabulary used in design problem solving will be introduced. Students in this course will also learn about areas/categories of graphic design, creating examples such as posters, book/CD covers and logos. Topics covering selecting appropriate printing papers, professional practices, psychology of color, and critique methods will also be introduced. (Prerequisites: Prerequisites: This class is restricted to NTID supported students that have completed NGRP-120 or NAIS-120 or equivalent course and NAIS-130 or equivalent course with a minimum grade of C.) Lec/Lab 5 (Fall, Spring). |
3 |
| NCAR-010 | Freshman Seminar The course provides incoming deaf and hard-of-hearing students admitted to NTID undergraduate programs with opportunities to develop/enhance academic skills, personal awareness, and community involvement in order to maximize their college experience. Students will have opportunities to explore and navigate the college environment, develop/reinforce academic skills, and participate in experiential learning opportunities while establishing meaningful connections with faculty, staff and peers. The course promotes the development of plans for ongoing growth and involvement in class and in the RIT/NTID and/or broader community. (NTID Supported Students.) Lec/Lab 2 (Fall, Spring). |
0 |
| NGRD-111 | Drawing I This course is an introduction to freehand drawing of basic forms, with an emphasis on perspective, including one-point and two-point techniques, still life studies and figure drawing. Drawing principles, materials, and techniques will be introduced. Still life study will be applied using perspective concepts, and composition, including tonal values and textures. Figure drawing will be focused on the study of line, gesture, contour, construction, proportion and tonal values. (NTID Supported Students.) Lec/Lab 5 (Fall, Spring). |
3 |
| NGRD-115 | Visual Idea Development This course gives students the opportunity to see themselves, their experiences and their environment as sources of creativity, through a variety of activities which will include classroom discussions; videos of artists; visiting a gallery; keeping documented written and illustrated journals, sketchbooks; and working with a team to do a project. Students learn strategies for developing concepts and organization of thought processes as well as systems to formulate solutions to design problems. The library is used for development of research skills for written and visual content. (NTID Supported Students.) Lec/Lab 5 (Fall). |
3 |
| NGRP-110 | Digital Photography I This course gives students an introduction to the tools, techniques and terminology of digital photographic imaging through a series of hands-on activities that will permit each student to investigate the applications of digital photography. Students will be expected to capture images using digital cameras, process digital images using the appropriate software, create quality picture files and prints, and participate in project-related critiques. (NTID Supported Students.) Lec/Lab 5 (Fall, Spring). |
3 |
| NGRP-210 | Digital Photography II Aesthetic/composition considerations will be emphasized. Various genres and markets will be discussed such as photo journalism, portraiture, fine art, advertising and marketing, sports, and still life. This course will also address various technologies for the capturing and converting of multiple static images into more dynamic presentations of environments, and objects. Topics will include panoramic stitching, creating virtual tours, creating 360 degree views of 3D objects, and creating dynamic slide shows. Students will be taught basic techniques for studio lighting and will be asked to produce photographs to match an art director sketch or layout. (Prerequisites: This class is restricted to NTID supported students that have completed NGRP-110 or equivalent courses.) Lec/Lab 5 (Spring). |
3 |
General Education Courses |
12 | |
| Total Semester Credit Hours | 33 |
|
Please see the General Education Requirements for more information.
Pre-Baccalaureate Studies, Visual Communications Studies (Photographic Arts and Sciences, BS degree), typical course sequence
| Course | Sem. Cr. Hrs. | |
|---|---|---|
| First Year | ||
| NAIS-120 | Principles of Design and Color Students will be introduced to the basic elements of two-dimensional monochromatic and color design, compositional principles, and approaches to analysis of design problems. Techniques for gathering resources to work toward possible design solutions and visualization of design concepts through the use of idea sketches to final comprehensive layouts. Color theory will be introduced. Students will also utilize basic design vocabulary to participate in critiques for the purpose of analyzing their own and other students' work. This course provides students in non-creative technical majors as well as those pursuing more creative endeavors within the graphic arts field with a fundamental overview and understanding of the design process to expand critical awareness of the importance of good design. (NTID Supported Students.) Lec/Lab 5 (Fall, Spring). |
3 |
| NAIS-130 | Raster and Vector Graphics This course introduces students to the skills needed for the successful production and manipulation of raster and vector images using image creation and production software. Students will work in bitmap and vector applications, producing and editing with the tools and techniques offered by the software programs such as selection techniques, basic layer controls, digital masking, image correction and enhancement. Additional topics will include the relevance of image size, resolution and file format specifications when working with raster and vector images. Comprehension and correct usage of terminology and concepts are emphasized. (NTID Supported Students.) Lec/Lab 5 (Fall, Spring). |
3 |
| NCAR-010 | Freshman Seminar The course provides incoming deaf and hard-of-hearing students admitted to NTID undergraduate programs with opportunities to develop/enhance academic skills, personal awareness, and community involvement in order to maximize their college experience. Students will have opportunities to explore and navigate the college environment, develop/reinforce academic skills, and participate in experiential learning opportunities while establishing meaningful connections with faculty, staff and peers. The course promotes the development of plans for ongoing growth and involvement in class and in the RIT/NTID and/or broader community. (NTID Supported Students.) Lec/Lab 2 (Fall, Spring). |
0 |
| NGRP-110 | Digital Photography I This course gives students an introduction to the tools, techniques and terminology of digital photographic imaging through a series of hands-on activities that will permit each student to investigate the applications of digital photography. Students will be expected to capture images using digital cameras, process digital images using the appropriate software, create quality picture files and prints, and participate in project-related critiques. (NTID Supported Students.) Lec/Lab 5 (Fall, Spring). |
3 |
| NGRP-231 | Image Preparation Students will build on the skills previously learned in Raster and Vector Graphics. This course includes specialized image preparation techniques used to acquire, optimize, correct, reconstruct, restore, and enhance images for placement in print and digital media layouts. Topics include: determining and applying resolution and magnification settings appropriate to the characteristics of the specified purpose of an image, setting highlight and shadow points, removing color cast, sharpening, and tone-adjustment of acquired images; the use of desk-top scanners hardware/software; the use of appropriate color settings/modes and file formats. (Prerequisites: This class is restricted to NTID supported students that have completed NAIS-130 and NAIS-150 or equivalent courses with a minimum grade of C and NAIS-160 or equivalent course.) Lec/Lab 5 (Fall). |
3 |
| NGRP-232 | Image Manipulation This course emphasizes the procedures and skill development required for the efficient and effective manipulation and compositing of digital images in a production environment building on the skills previously learned in Raster and Vector Graphics. This is a production-oriented course with a focus on the non-destructive editing of (primarily raster) digital images. This course includes specialized image manipulation methods such as advanced selection and masking techniques for producing images that blend together into a single composite image. Additional topics include applying production planning techniques to image manipulation, production quality standards, advanced methods and quality criteria for image manipulation, and legal and ethical issues. (Prerequisites: This class is restricted to NTID supported students that have completed NAIS-130 equivalent course with a minimum grade of C.) Lec/Lab 5 (Spring). |
3 |
General Education Courses |
12 | |
Math Course* |
3 | |
Science Course† |
3 | |
| Total Semester Credit Hours | 33 |
|
Please see the General Education Requirements for more information.
* Students may choose any mathematics course numbered NMTH-120 or higher.
† Students may choose any science course numbered NSCI-120 or higher.
Pre-Baccalaureate Studies, Visual Communications Studies (Film and Animation Option), typical course sequence
| Course | Sem. Cr. Hrs. | |
|---|---|---|
| First Year | ||
| NCAR-010 | Freshman Seminar The course provides incoming deaf and hard-of-hearing students admitted to NTID undergraduate programs with opportunities to develop/enhance academic skills, personal awareness, and community involvement in order to maximize their college experience. Students will have opportunities to explore and navigate the college environment, develop/reinforce academic skills, and participate in experiential learning opportunities while establishing meaningful connections with faculty, staff and peers. The course promotes the development of plans for ongoing growth and involvement in class and in the RIT/NTID and/or broader community. (NTID Supported Students.) Lec/Lab 2 (Fall, Spring). |
0 |
| NGRP-220 | Videography This course provides an overview of videography for the web. This is a basic digital video course that introduces the process and procedures involved in digital video production from start to finish. Students will be introduced to videography production techniques, camera operation and formats, digital non-linear editing, titling and lighting for video. Emphasis is on development of ideas, proper operation of video and computer equipment for productions and post-production of digital non-linear edited sequences and their adaptation to different presentation formats for online delivery. (NTID Supported Students.) Lec/Lab 5 (Fall). |
3 |
| SOFA-107 | Principles of Animation This course will introduce the concepts and mechanics of movement for animation, focusing on, but not limited to, character based movement. Animation principles will be introduced and applied using hand-drawn methods, which will serve as the foundation for their application in any desired medium. Weekly exercises will be recorded using standard animation software, and will be reviewed, discussed and open to group critique. (Prerequisite: SOFA-121 or equivalent course.) Lecture 3 (Spring). |
3 |
| SOFA-103 | Introduction to Imaging and Video Systems This course provides an introductory overview of the basic engineering and scientific principles associated with imaging systems. Topics covered include imaging physics, photographic science, human vision and perception, image capture and display technologies (both analog and digital), and digital image processing. This course is taught using both mathematical and phenomenological presentation and prepares students to proceed with more in-depth investigation of these fields in subsequent imaging science and motion picture science courses. Accompanying laboratory exercises provide hands-on experience with the presented concepts. (Co-requisite: MATH-171 or MATH-181 or MATH-181A or equivalent course.) Lab 3, Lecture 2 (Fall or Spring). |
3 |
Theatre Electives/Performing Arts† |
3-9 | |
General Education Courses |
12 | |
| Total Semester Credit Hours | 24-30 |
|
Please see the General Education Requirements for more information.
† Please see the College of Art and Design support coordinator for a list of current theatre electives.
Pre-Baccalaureate Studies, Visual Communications Studies (Graphic Media Science and Technology), typical course sequence
| Course | Sem. Cr. Hrs. | |
|---|---|---|
| First Year | ||
| NAIS-130 | Raster and Vector Graphics This course introduces students to the skills needed for the successful production and manipulation of raster and vector images using image creation and production software. Students will work in bitmap and vector applications, producing and editing with the tools and techniques offered by the software programs such as selection techniques, basic layer controls, digital masking, image correction and enhancement. Additional topics will include the relevance of image size, resolution and file format specifications when working with raster and vector images. Comprehension and correct usage of terminology and concepts are emphasized. (NTID Supported Students.) Lec/Lab 5 (Fall, Spring). |
3 |
| NAIS-150 | Page Layout I Students will use page layout (desktop publishing) applications to design and produce pages and documents to given specifications. Skill development will include importing and placing text and graphic files, the application of style sheets, templates, snippets, libraries, and color specifications. The application of design and typographic principles, industry terminology, measurement systems, font management, and file management are also covered. (NTID Supported Students.) Lec/Lab 5 (Fall, Spring). |
3 |
| NCAR-010 | Freshman Seminar The course provides incoming deaf and hard-of-hearing students admitted to NTID undergraduate programs with opportunities to develop/enhance academic skills, personal awareness, and community involvement in order to maximize their college experience. Students will have opportunities to explore and navigate the college environment, develop/reinforce academic skills, and participate in experiential learning opportunities while establishing meaningful connections with faculty, staff and peers. The course promotes the development of plans for ongoing growth and involvement in class and in the RIT/NTID and/or broader community. (NTID Supported Students.) Lec/Lab 2 (Fall, Spring). |
0 |
| NGRP-231 | Image Preparation Students will build on the skills previously learned in Raster and Vector Graphics. This course includes specialized image preparation techniques used to acquire, optimize, correct, reconstruct, restore, and enhance images for placement in print and digital media layouts. Topics include: determining and applying resolution and magnification settings appropriate to the characteristics of the specified purpose of an image, setting highlight and shadow points, removing color cast, sharpening, and tone-adjustment of acquired images; the use of desk-top scanners hardware/software; the use of appropriate color settings/modes and file formats. (Prerequisites: This class is restricted to NTID supported students that have completed NAIS-130 and NAIS-150 or equivalent courses with a minimum grade of C and NAIS-160 or equivalent course.) Lec/Lab 5 (Fall). |
3 |
| NGRP-232 | Image Manipulation This course emphasizes the procedures and skill development required for the efficient and effective manipulation and compositing of digital images in a production environment building on the skills previously learned in Raster and Vector Graphics. This is a production-oriented course with a focus on the non-destructive editing of (primarily raster) digital images. This course includes specialized image manipulation methods such as advanced selection and masking techniques for producing images that blend together into a single composite image. Additional topics include applying production planning techniques to image manipulation, production quality standards, advanced methods and quality criteria for image manipulation, and legal and ethical issues. (Prerequisites: This class is restricted to NTID supported students that have completed NAIS-130 equivalent course with a minimum grade of C.) Lec/Lab 5 (Spring). |
3 |
| NGRP-245 | Color Theory and Management This course includes the study and management of color for design, printing, web, and photographic imaging systems and procedures. Students will use and apply correct technical vocabulary, and various concepts and procedures related to the perception, specification, evaluation, correction, and management of color in various graphic arts. (Prerequisites: Prerequisites: This class is restricted to NTID supported students that have completed NGRP-120 or NAIS-120 or equivalent course and NAIS-130 or equivalent course with a minimum grade of C.) Lec/Lab 5 (Fall). |
3 |
Math Course† |
3 | |
Science Course‡ |
3 | |
General Education Courses |
12 | |
| Total Semester Credit Hours | 33 |
|
Please see the General Education Requirements for more information.
† Students may choose any mathematics course numbered NMTH-120 or higher.
‡ Students may choose any science course numbered NSCI-120 or higher.
Admissions and Financial Aid
Specific English, Mathematics, and Science Requirements and other Recommendations
Students entering pre-baccalaureate studies in visual communications will typically be required to have:
- English: Placement into a First Year Writing course, such as FYW: Writing Seminar (UWRT-150)
- Mathematics: Placement into mathematics course NMTH-120 or higher for BFA degrees or NMTH-250 or higher for BS degrees
- Science: Placement into science NSCI-120 or higher for BFA degrees or NSCI-250 or higher for BS degrees
- ACT (optional): The ACT middle 50% composite score is 18-21
Financial Aid and Scholarships
100% of all incoming first-year and transfer students receive aid.
RIT’s personalized and comprehensive financial aid program includes scholarships, grants, loans, and campus employment programs. When all these are put to work, your actual cost may be much lower than the published estimated cost of attendance.
Learn more about financial aid and scholarships
Contact
Program Contact
- Andrea Zuchegno
- Department Chair
- Department of Visual Communications Studies
- National Technical Institute for the Deaf
- ammnvs@rit.edu
Offered within
the
Department of Visual Communications Studies
Department of Visual Communications Studies