Branding & Design at Cal Poly SLO

This hands-on course is perfect for students eager to explore their creative potential and understand the powerful impact of visual communication in branding.

Program Highlights

Understand the fundamentals of visual communication and its impact on brand perception
Identify key components of branding, including brand personality and visual identity creation
Apply graphic design principles and elements to develop compelling and visually appealing designs
Explain the designer's role in the branding process and how design choices influence brand identity
Design and create a personal brand that incorporates unique elements and techniques
Develop a cohesive project that extends and embodies your personal brand identity
Learn how to effectively use tools for design, creating polished outputs that reflect branding concepts
Tuition:

Residential Tuition:
$5,298

Commuter Tuition:
$2,998

Dates:

Session 2:
July 14, 2024 July 26, 2024

Location:

Cal Poly - San Luis Obispo
Cal Poly SLO - San Luis Obispo, CA

Course Overview

Students will dive into the essentials of branding, learning how to define what a brand truly is and the fundamentals of creating a captivating visual brand identity. Through engaging lessons and resources, students will apply graphic design principles that will empower them to create visual impact by crafting effective and stunning designs. As budding designers, students will discover their vital role in the branding process while honing their skills in peer critique—an invaluable experience that fosters collaboration and improvement. Each participant will have the chance to design their own personal brand and output with eye-catching foil finishing effects, culminating in the creation of a unique project that beautifully extends their brand identity.

With a focus on practical skills, students will also explore the use of software tools, enabling them to transform their creative ideas into polished outputs that truly reflect their vision. Whether students dream of a future in graphic communication, design, marketing, or entrepreneurship, this course is a gateway to building essential skills and a standout portfolio. Sign up and let creativity take flight!

Meet your instructor

Dr. Donna Templeton

Branding & Graphic Design Cal Poly SLO

Dr. Donna Templeton is currently serving as a faculty member in the Graphic Communication Department at Cal Poly.

Learn more

Topics you'll explore

Course Structure


There are nine 3-hour class sessions over the two-week course. During week one, students have class from 9am-12pm, Monday - Friday. During week two, students have class from 9am-12pm Monday through Thursday. Wednesday afternoons are dedicated to additional academic time (excursions, speakers).

Hands on Learning


Students will visit local design and branding firms using the latest technology to promote businesses around SLO and beyond.

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