Art (ART)
ART 100 Introduction to Art Credits: 3
Typically Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer.
Course Description: General background in the history, philosophy, principles, and techniques of the visual arts.
CORE 42: MOTR ARTS 100; Art Appreciation (attribute MO51)
ART 110 Beginning Drawing I Credits: 3
Typically Offered: Fall, Spring.
Course Description: Elementary drawing with the figure, still life, landscape, and perspective in various media. Six studio hours.
CORE 42: MOTR PERF 105D; Studio Art - Introduction to Drawing (attribute MO57)
ART 120 Two-Dimensional Design Credits: 3
Typically Offered: Fall, Spring.
Course Description: Design principles and fundamentals in two-dimensional media using a problem-solving approach. Six studio hours.
ART 121 Introduction to Animation Techniques Credits: 3
Typically Offered: Fall.
Course Description: This course introduces students to the principles and techniques of animation. Students will engage in a variety of practices, including stop motion, hand-drawn animation, practical fabrication, and experimental methods. Students will also practice safety and shop fabrication techniques while applying classical animation methods, exploring how these traditional practices have influenced modern digital tools and techniques. Six studio hours.
ART 129 Design Software Applications Credits: 3
Typically Offered: Fall, Spring.
Course Description: Introduction to computer hardware, software and peripherals commonly used by professional artists. Beginning projects utilizing computer-assisted design. Six studio hours.
ART 160 Beginning Drawing II Credits: 3
Typically Offered: Departmental Discretion.
Course Description: The figure in various media; still life, landscape, and nonobjective directions; problems dealing with the complete drawing. Six studio hours. Prerequisite(s): ART 110.
ART 170 Three-Dimensional Design Credits: 3
Typically Offered: Departmental Discretion.
Course Description: Emphasis on form and composition using a problem solving approach; exploration of a wide variety of three-dimensional materials and processes. Six studio hours.
ART 190 Digital 3D Fundamentals Credits: 3
Typically Offered: Spring.
Course Description: This course provides an introduction and broad overview of the fundamentals of digital 3D visualization. The course is framed within real-world applications and opportunities for visualization. Students will gain an introductory understanding of key concepts, including modeling, lighting, surface rendering, animation, and digital video exporting. Six studio hours.
ART 192 Digital Imaging Credits: 3
Typically Offered: Spring.
Course Description: In-depth study of digital imaging, editing and design techniques as a foundation in the study of visual communication. Fundamental instruction in raster-imaging software (Photoshop) to manipulate photographs, create original imagery, and solve visual problems. Students will investigate the elements and principles of design, explore with digital technology, and discover a broad range of communication ideas with visual images. Topics include making selections, layering, gradients, image-correction, composition, problem solving, and conceptual aesthetic development. Six studio hours.
ART 200 Stop-Motion Animation Credits: 3
Typically Offered: Departmental Discretion.
Course Description: Students will explore character rigging, set design, and the integration of mixed media in their projects. Emphasis will be placed on refining animation techniques, including advanced puppet manipulation, camera movement, and the use of digital tools to enhance traditional stop-motion workflows. Six studio hours. Prerequisite(s): ART 121.
ART 201 Animation History I Credits: 3
Typically Offered: Fall.
Course Description: This course explores the evolution of animation from its origins to the dawn of the television age in 1960. Students will examine key milestones in animation history, influential figures like Winsor McCay, Walt Disney, and Fleischer Studios, and the cultural and technological factors that shaped the animation industry.
ART 202 Animation History II Credits: 3
Typically Offered: Spring.
Course Description: This course delves into the transformative years of animation from 1960 to the present, highlighting significant advancements in technology, style, and storytelling. Students will study the impact of television animation, the rise of independent studios, and the introduction of computer-generated imagery (CGI). Discussions will also explore the globalization of animation and its role in popular culture. Through case studies and critical analysis, students will develop a comprehensive understanding of the evolution of animation in the modern era.
ART 205 Survey of Art History I Credits: 3
Typically Offered: Fall, Spring.
Course Description: A global art survey covering visual culture in Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas before c. 1400.
CORE 42: MOTR ARTS 101; Art History I (attribute MO51)
ART 210 Animation Fundamentals Credits: 3
Typically Offered: Spring.
Course Description: This course is an introductory study of the fundamental principles and mechanics of motion through animation. Students will explore timing, spacing, weight, and staging an image for clarity, emotion, and storytelling. They will learn to apply and manipulate these fundamental concepts in animated content. Six studio hours.
ART 221 Digital 3D Modeling Credits: 3
Typically Offered: Fall.
Course Description: Working with industrial 3D modeling software, this course provides an introduction to 3D model design. Students will learn how to utilize modeling techniques and applications, and gain a basic understanding of 3D modeling to design organized virtual models. Six studio hours. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisite(s): ART 190.
ART 250 Motion Graphics Credits: 3
Typically Offered: Spring.
Course Description: This course is an introduction to Motion Graphics and Compositing, which includes the categories of commercial, interactive, broadcast, main title and music video. The course will include lectures, showcases and demonstrations of the history, techniques and applications of motion graphics in media. Six studio hours. May be repeated for up to 4 times for credit. Prerequisite(s): Credit or concurrent enrollment in ART 129.
ART 255 Survey of Art History II Credits: 3
Typically Offered: Fall, Spring.
Course Description: A global art survey covering visual culture in Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas after c. 1400.
CORE 42: MOTR ARTS 102; Art History II (attribute MO51)
ART 257 Theory and Criticism of Visual Culture Credits: 3
Typically Offered: Fall.
Course Description: A practical, experience-based multi-disciplinary introduction to contemporary and classic approaches to art theory and criticism. Same as PHL 257. Prerequisite(s): ART 205 and ART 255, or permission from the instructor or departmental approval.
ART 290 Graphic Design I Credits: 3
Typically Offered: Fall, Spring.
Course Description: An introduction to the practical and theoretical aspects of graphic design, focusing on the exploration of conceptual ideas and the development of visual problem-solving skills. Identity systems, principles of symbology, and the fundamentals of page layout will be explored. Six studio hours. Prerequisite(s): Credit or concurrent enrollment in ART 120 and ART 129.
ART 292 Graphic Design II Credits: 3
Typically Offered: Spring.
Course Description: Further investigation into the concepts and processes of visual communication. Emphasis will be placed on typographic design concepts, color usage, image generation and development, and creative problem solving. Branding strategies, corporate identity, and packaging design will be introduced. Six studio hours. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisite(s): ART 129 and a grade of C or higher in ART 290.
ART 305 History of Digital Tools Credits: 3
Typically Offered: Departmental Discretion.
Course Description: This course examines the evolution of animation techniques, focusing on the impact of digital tools on the art form. Key topics include the development of animation software, the rise of 3D modeling and rendering, and the influence of technology on storytelling and visual aesthetics. Through lectures, screenings, and hands-on projects, students will gain a comprehensive understanding of how digital tools have transformed animation practices and shaped contemporary works. By the end of the course, students will be equipped with historical knowledge and critical insights into the relationship between technology and animation artistry.
ART 315 Illustration I Credits: 3
Typically Offered: Fall, Spring.
Course Description: A project-based course that provides a variety of methods, techniques, and best practices for creating digital illustrations and experiences. Students will explore commercial markets and illustrative styles, sketch and plan concepts, experiment and apply automated techniques, engage in small team collaboration, present and critique work, and estimate time, costs, and objectives toward developing portfolio-quality work. Six studio hours. Prerequisite(s): ART 110, ART 120, and ART 129.
ART 325 Digital 3D Lighting Credits: 3
Typically Offered: Spring.
Course Description: Study beginning rendering techniques using industry standard renderers. Create custom shaders, work with lighting, and develop an understanding of the rendering and lighting process. Six studio hours. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisite(s): ART 110, ART 120, ART 129, and ART 190.
ART 326 Introduction to Game Design Credits: 3
Typically Offered: Departmental Discretion.
Course Description: In this course we will explore the process for creating, exporting and importing assets from standard 3D modeling and animation software to a game engine. Students will learn the how to create models, textures, dynamic assets, particle effects and materials for real-time application. This course will also cover character creation, modeling, texturing and rigging for gaming. Six studio hours. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisite(s): ART 190 and ART 221.
ART 330 Special Topics in Animation Credits: 3
Typically Offered: Departmental Discretion.
Course Description: This course provides an in-depth exploration of current trends and emerging theories in the field of animation. Designed for upper-level students, the curriculum will rotate each semester to cover a variety of contemporary topics, such as the impact of technology on animation practices, the intersection of animation with other media forms, and the evolving role of animation in social and cultural discourse. Through lectures, discussions, case studies, and hands-on projects, students will engage critically with the latest developments in animation theory and practice. By the end of the course, students will have a nuanced understanding of how these trends influence artistic expression and audience engagement in the dynamic landscape of animation. Six studio hours. May be repeated for additional course credit.
ART 331 Animation Outside the Box Credits: 3
Typically Offered: Departmental Discretion.
Course Description: This course explores the intersection of animation and installation art, focusing on creating immersive experiences in gallery settings. Students will learn to integrate various technologies, including augmented reality (AR), 3D printing, projection mapping, and DMX control systems, to develop innovative animated installations. The curriculum will emphasize the conceptual and technical aspects of installation design, allowing students to experiment with space, movement, and interactivity. By the end of the course, students will present their installations in a gallery setting, showcasing their ability to blend animation with cutting-edge technology. Six studio hours. Prerequisite(s): ART 190 or ART 210.
ART 333 Typography Credits: 3
Typically Offered: Fall.
Course Description: A study of the principles and practices of historic and contemporary typographic design focusing on such factors as size, form, contrast, color, spacing and design of the printed word and printed page. Students learn typographic structure and informational hierarchies while exploring both the formal and expressive qualities of type. Six studio hours. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisite(s): Credit or concurrent enrollment in ART 120 and ART 129.
ART 344 User Experience Design Credits: 3
Typically Offered: Fall.
Course Description: An introduction to User Experience (UX) theory and User Interface (UI) design methods toward producing interactive projects from design and psychological perspectives. Students learn visual design fundamentals and testing using industry-standard software and hardware. The course also explores understanding, writing, and planning for an interactive design process, curating a visual design system, creating interactive prototypes, establishing technical constraints, and conducting usability tests. Six studio hours. Prerequisite(s): Credit or concurrent enrollment in ART 129 and PSY 101.
ART 345 3D Modeling and Design Processes Credits: 3
Typically Offered: Spring.
Course Description: This course will investigate the creation and manipulation of three-dimensional forms and environments using experimental methods - primarily digitally based methods coupled with new forms of output such as 3D printing. Six studio hours. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisite(s): permission of instructor.
ART 349 Interactive Design I Credits: 3
Typically Offered: Fall.
Course Description: A continuation of User Interface (UI) design, and introduction to HTML, CSS, and front-end development methods through a comprehensive and non-linear interaction design workflow. The course provides multiple techniques in the creation and development of responsive web sites and email, best practices toward establishing a strong visual language, developing basic functional interactive components, and utilizing software and a code editor. Six studio hours. Prerequisite(s): Credit or concurrent enrollment in ART 129 and PSY 101.
ART 351 Advance Motion Graphics Credits: 3
Typically Offered: Departmental Discretion.
Course Description: This course builds on motion graphics fundamentals covered in ART 250. Students will work to develop a better understanding of how to develop a distinct visual style in both personal work and in work for clients. The course emphasis Digital 3D Motion Design and integration. Students will gain familiarity with contemporary styles and trends in professional motion graphics. This course exposes students to the principles and elements of motion design through advanced level studio practices. Six studio hours. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisite(s): ART 250.
ART 352 3D Rigging Credits: 3
Typically Offered: Spring.
Course Description: This course introduces the fundamental principles of 3D rigging for animation. Students will learn to create skeletal frameworks (rigs) that allow 3D models to be articulated and animated. Students will rig characters and objects, preparing them for animation in both film and game design. Emphasis will be placed on problem-solving and building efficient, flexible rigs that can handle a wide range of movements. Six studio hours.
ART 353 Digital Animation Credits: 3
Typically Offered: Spring.
Course Description: Students will learn to create believable and natural 3D computer animations with a combination of several different techniques. Movements of objects, actors and cameras along with animated affects of attributes will be demonstrated and discussed. Six studio hours. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisite(s): ART 190 and ART 210.
ART 354 Compositing for Animation Credits: 3
Typically Offered: Departmental Discretion.
Course Description: This course provides an in-depth exploration of compositing techniques used in animation production. Students will learn to combine multiple visual elements into a cohesive whole, focusing on layering, masking, color correction, and integrating 2D, 3D, and live assets. Students will develop skills in green screen compositing, motion tracking, and visual effects integration. Six studio hours. Prerequisite(s): ART 325.
ART 355 Advance Digital Lighting Credits: 3
Typically Offered: Departmental Discretion.
Course Description: This course is intended to provide students an opportunity to focus studies in advance production concepts in 3-D lighting, texturing and rendering and builds on topics covered in ART 225. Students will study the processes and techniques for creating shaders and lighting setups for both cinematic and gaming environments. Techniques in UV mapping and projection mapping will be explored for both environments and character creation. Additional topics including negative lighting and global illumination, will also be covered. Six studio hours. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisite(s): ART 325.
ART 358 Character Animation Credits: 3
Typically Offered: Fall.
Course Description: This course emphasizes the practical and theoretical principles of character animation. Students will explore how to convey personality through movement and develop skills to create expressive characters. The exercises will build a foundation for understanding techniques to capture emotions in animation. Six studio hours. Prerequisite(s): ART 190 and ART 210.
ART 359 Photography I Credits: 3
Typically Offered: Fall, Spring.
Course Description: This is an introduction course that explores the technical processes involved in digital photography, including using a DSLR camera, editing programs and digital printing skills. The course covers the use of camera functions: lens, exposure, f-stops, shutter speeds and digital formats. Emphasis will be placed on technical and compositional skills along with the aesthetic importance of the image. Students must have access to a high quality DSLR camera with the ability for manual control and RAW image capture. Six studio hours.
ART 360 Photography II Credits: 3
Typically Offered: Departmental Discretion.
Course Description: This course delves more deeply into the technical functions of a digital camera as well as the art of photography. There is an emphasis on independent student work. Students must have access to a DSLR or mirrorless camera with the ability to shoot in manual mode and capture RAW images. Six studio hours. Prerequisite(s): ART 359.
ART 371 Topics in Ancient/Medieval Art Credits: 3
Typically Offered: Fall.
Course Description: (even-numbered years). Examines different topics and themes in Ancient or Medieval art. Course content varies by semester. May be repeated one time for credit with instructor's permission.
ART 372 Topics in Modern/Contemporary Art Credits: 3
Typically Offered: Spring (even-numbered years).
Course Description: Examines different topics and themes in Modern or Contemporary art. Course content varies by semester. May be repeated one time for credit with instructor's permission.
ART 375 Illustration II Credits: 3
Typically Offered: Departmental Discretion.
Course Description: Exploration of techniques, craftsmanship and conceptual skills to provide understanding of illustration and its function in design for commercial purposes. Six studio hours. Prerequisite(s): ART 315.
ART 390 Graphic Design III Credits: 3
Typically Offered: Fall.
Course Description: Further investigation into design communications by exploring page layout systems, grid structures, informational design, editorial design, and multi-page formats. Principles of advertising design and layout will be explored. Six studio hours. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisite(s): A grade of C or higher in ART 292.
ART 401 Animation Capstone I: Preproduction Credits: 3
Typically Offered: Fall.
Course Description: In this first course of the Animation Capstone sequence, each student will develop and produce a short film. Through collaborative workshops and individual feedback sessions, students will learn to articulate their ideas effectively and prepare comprehensive production plans. By the end of the semester, each student will have a fully realized pitch for their short film, complete with visual references and an organized approach for moving into production. Six studio hours. Prerequisite(s): ART 358.
ART 402 Animation Capstone II: Production Credits: 3
Typically Offered: Spring.
Course Description: Building on the groundwork laid in Animation Capstone I, the second course in the sequence focuses on the production of each student's short film. Students will translate their preproduction plans into finished animated works, applying skills in animation techniques, sound design, and post-production processes. The course will cover industry-standard software and techniques, ensuring students are well-versed in the technical aspects of animation production. Six studio hours. Prerequisite(s): ART 401.
ART 449 Interactive Design II Credits: 3
Typically Offered: Spring.
Course Description: Building upon skills developed in Interactive Design I, this course introduces beginner-level JavaScript, object-oriented programming concepts, advanced User Experience (UX) design topics, and a continuation of User Interface (UI) design using industry-standard software and hardware. The course also explores ongoing usability testing and producing quantitative results, problem-solving through critical thinking, designing for Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), and planning, documenting, designing, and developing large-scope projects for mobile and web delivery. Six studio hours. Prerequisite(s): ART 129, ART 349, and credit or concurrent enrollment in PSY 101.
ART 450 Independent Research/Project Credits: 3
Typically Offered: Fall, Spring.
Course Description: Investigation of a research problem, project, or topic on an individual conference basis. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisite(s): Minimum major GPA of 2.5, and departmental approval.
ART 455 Advance Digital Sculpting Credits: 3
Typically Offered: Departmental Discretion.
Course Description: This course will introduce students to advance modeling techniques for hard surface and organic modeling. The student will understand proper modeling workflow, topology, retopology, exporting and applying high fidelity models for a variety of real-world applications. Six studio hours. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisite(s): ART 221.
ART 460 Photography III Credits: 3
Typically Offered: Departmental Discretion.
Course Description: Advanced photographic processes and problems emphasizing individual experience. Six studio hours. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisite(s): ART 360.
ART 465 Digital Animation Production Credits: 3
Typically Offered: Spring.
Course Description: Advanced exploration and development in digital animation production. This course provides an in-depth exploration of the animation production pipeline, emphasizing the collaborative nature of creating animated projects. Students will learn about each stage of the production process, equipping students with the technical skills necessary to contribute effectively to a production team. Six studio hours. Prerequisite(s): ART 190 and ART 210.
ART 471 Topics in Renaissance/Baroque Art Credits: 3
Typically Offered: Fall (odd-numbered years).
Course Description: Examines different topics and themes in Renaissance or Baroque art. Course content varies by semester. May be repeated one time for credit with instructor's permission.
ART 472 Topics in Non-Western Art Credits: 3
Typically Offered: Spring (odd-numbered years).
Course Description: Examines different topics and themes in non-Western art. Course content varies by semester. May be repeated one time for credit with instructor's permission.
ART 475 Illustration III Credits: 3
Typically Offered: Departmental Discretion.
Course Description: Continuation of problem solving and development of personal style for the marketplace. Exploration of business practices and expectations. Work towards personal promotion and portfolio presentation. Six studio hours. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisite(s): ART 375.
ART 485 Professional Practice for Animation Credits: 3
Typically Offered: Fall.
Course Description: In this course, students will focus on developing a professional practice within the animation industry by creating a comprehensive digital animation portfolio. The course will guide students through developing essential materials such as resumes, business cards, and portfolios, aligned with current industry trends. Additionally, students will explore the fundamentals of freelancing and animation business practices, including client communication, contracts, and marketing strategies. Six studio hours. Prerequisite(s): ART 190 and ART 210.
ART 488 Final Portfolio Credits: 3
Typically Offered: Spring.
Course Description: All aspects of portfolio development, production and presentation. Elements of professional work application and self-promotional expectation in the professional field. Six studio hours. Prerequisite(s): ART 349, ART 390 and ART 490.
ART 490 Graphic Design IV Credits: 3
Typically Offered: Spring.
Course Description: Advanced study in a self-defined area of visual communication. This class consolidates previous graphic design knowledge and skills, and offers the student an opportunity to focus on a major, self-initiated design project or problem. Six studio hours. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisite(s): A grade of C or higher in ART 390.
ART 493 Internship In Art Credits: 2-6
Typically Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer.
Course Description: Practical guided experience in a range of design, graphic art, typography, illustration, photography and publications tasks. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisite(s): ART 290 and departmental approval.