The accelerated growth of visual imagery across multiple digital media platforms has created a powerful social and cultural shift in communication. These days, both the average user and the trained professional share a growing schematic of non-verbal communication methods and motivations. This course will study three key areas in visual culture where the divide between high and low, amateur and professional, and creator and innovator, are being redrawn through advancement of visual skills and technical prowess. Students will gain an understanding of visual communication codes and theory, core visual design principles, the power of photography, data visualization and infographics, and how to effectively leverage and use visual elements to enhance storytelling across these three areas. There will be readings and guest lecturers from practitioners and thought leaders in the field, as well as application of visual communication theory. The class will engage in some hands-on information design and photography work, but no special equipment or graphic design skills are required.