Course Descriptions
ART 1123 Computer Graphics Three hours
A study of Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign and Acrobat on the Macintosh platform
with applications to the fields of graphic design, illustration, digital media, and
photography. An additional fee is associated with this course.
Offered each semester
ART 1133 Visual Media and Culture Three hours
A study of the fundamentals of visual media and the interaction between visual arts and humans individually and collectively.
Offered fall semester
ART 1243 Drawing I Three hours
An experience in developing visual perception through observation and then translating three-dimensional forms into two-dimensional images. Nature, still-life, and an introduction to figure drawing are included.
Offered each semester
ART 2103 Foundations in Digital Editing Three hours
An introduction to creative video editing and motion media composition using non-linear software. Students investigate professional editing problems in traditional digital filmmaking and experimental media to produce independent creative works. An additional fee is associated with this course.
Offered each semester
ART 2113 Introduction to Cinema Three hours
An introduction to the skills and art of filmmaking. Theories, genres and the history of cinema are addressed. Students' explorations of the language and grammar of film culminate in the actual production of their first short form narrative work. An additional fee is associated with this course.
Prerequisite: ART 2103
Offered spring semester
ART 2123 Cinematography Three hours
An introduction to the process of Digital Cinema through hands-on workshops with the cameras, mounting and lighting equipment. Students gain experience in creating mood and evoking emotion through the proper combination of composition and lighting which enhances visual storytelling. Student cinematographers develop their creative skills by involvement in both fiction and documentary film productions. An additional fee is associated with this course.
Prerequisite: ART 2103
Offered fall semester
ART 2153 European Arts and Culture Three hours
A study of the historical development of European painting, sculpture, architecture, and music from 1000 a.d. to the present. Special attention is given to the connection between art forms, culture, and worldviews. As part of the German Studies program, the course combines academic coursework with visits to important cultural sites in Germany, Austria, and Italy.
Offered summers, German Studies Program
ART 2163 Irish Art and Culture Three hours
A study of Irish art forms such as painting, sculpture, architecture, and film. Special attention is given to the connection between art forms and Irish history and culture. As part of the Irish Studies program, the course combines academic coursework with visits to important cultural sites in Ireland as well as guest lectures from contemporary artists.
Offered Irish Studies Program
ART 2203 2D Computer Animation Three hours
An introduction to the history and background of animation, with hands-on projects in 2D computer animation. The focus is on familiarizing the student with digital 2D computer animation software. An additional fee is associated with this course.
Prerequisite: ART 1123
Offered spring semester
ART 2213 Color Studies Three hours
An opportunity to explore the transient nature of color by studying the properties of and the relationships between colors. The information gained through this study is essential for those entering both the areas of graphic design and illustration.
Offered each semester
ART 2233 Art History Three hours
An introduction to the major people and works responsible for our visual heritage. Students begin to work toward the goal of developing a visual literacy, including fine art, design, advertising, and architecture.
Offered fall semester
ART 2253 Graphic Design I Three hours
An introduction to the world of Graphic Design from typography and design to layout and printing. Includes practice in design of materials such as logos, brochures, posters, and advertising.
Offered each semester
ART 2263 Graphic Design II Three hours
A continuation of the study of Graphic Design, with increased emphasis on comping techniques, craftsmanship, typography, problem solving, presentation, and production on the Macintosh.
Prerequisite: ART 2253
Offered each semester
ART 2273 3D Computer Animation I Three hours
An introduction to the interface and use of 3D computer modeling software. In project-based assignments, the student proceeds through various types of 3D modeling, texturing, and rendering. An additional fee is associated with this course.
Prerequisite: ART 1123
Offered fall semester
ART 2303 Foundations in Interactive Design Three hours
An exploration of the principles of Interactive Authoring. With an emphasis on art and design, students combine 2-dimensional imaging, graphics authoring as well as audio and video technology for achieving interactivity from multiple source media. Interactivity, communication, interface design, target audience and scripting tools are covered. An additional fee is associated with this course.
Offered each semester
ART 2333 Art, Design, and Creativity Three hours
A study of the theory and practice of the creative process by focusing on key historical influences and modern trends, while incorporating an introduction to the practice of formal art and design principles through hands-on experimentation.
Offered fall semester (odd-numbered years)
ART 2343 European Art Tour Three hours
Students tour a major art center of Europe, analyzing masterworks in their historical context, gaining cultural experience, and enriching their own artistic foundations. It is hoped that this experience will result in greater motivation, inspiration craftsmanship, and depth in the students’ creative work. Course requirements include preliminary research targeting at least one of the region’s prominent artists, a journal, and a personal summary paper.
Offered summer
ART 2403 Introduction to Photography Three hours
A beginner’s overview to the analog and digital tools and skills required for the modern art of photography. Emphasis is placed on exposure, composition, formal aesthetics, lighting, and printing of the student’s photographic vision. The course includes a fundamental study of the photographic process, visual literacy, and artistic criticism necessary for students to advance in study. An additional fee is associated with this course.
Offered each semester
ART 2453 Drawing II Three hours
An advancing study of drawing, with emphasis on further development of technical skills as well as conceptual visual thinking. Focus is given to the expressive qualities of drawing as finished pieces of art.
Prerequisite: ART 1243
Offered spring semester
ART 2503 Typography Three hours
A study of the use of type in graphic design. Topics include the history of type, choosing type, and the technical aspects of setting type.
Prerequisite: ART 2253
Offered spring semester
ART 3133 Fine Art Photography Three hours
An exploration of artistic expression through both traditional and digital imaging techniques. The course focuses on conceptual and interpretive photography and incorporates a critical, evaluative component that expands and informs the students’ understanding of photography as a fine art, past and present. An additional fee is associated with this course.
Prerequisite: ART 2403
Offered spring semester
ART 3153 Digital Darkroom Three hours
A focused look at digital photography processing encompassing capture, color management, device profiling, calibration, and printing. The course provides an advanced study in software image enhancement, retouching, and repairing. All course assignments are professionally printed at the highest digital standards. An additional fee is associated with this course.
Prerequisites: ART 1123, 2403
Offered each semester
ART 3183 Social Documentary Photography Three hours
A critical look at both documentary and photojournalistic photography genres that provide an emphasis on developing a thoughtful approach to seeking and making meaningful photographs that attract, inform, and communicate. This course involves a sociological and cultural analysis with demanding deadlines that expose students to the realities of working photojournalists. An additional fee is associated with thisn course.
Prerequisite: ART 2403
Offered spring semester
ART 3203 History of Advertising and Design Three hours
A survey of key movements, trends, people, and innovations in the history of advertising and design. Students view work, read histories, and study concepts from the world of design, in hopes of gaining an appreciative understanding of the foundational artistic images and ideas that have been both a response to and an influence upon the culture at large. This analysis of historical commercial art will solidify students’ own creative foundations for success in numerous professional fields—web design, advertising, industrial, product design, and graphic design.
Offered fall semester
ART 3223 3D Computer Animation II Three hours
Advancing techniques in 3D computer modeling, texturing, and rendering. Strong drawing skills are assumed as students create concept art and complete complex projects in character design. An additional fee is associated with this course.
Prerequisites: ART 2273 and 2453 or consent of instructor
Offered spring semester
ART 3243 2D Advanced Animation Three hours
Exercises of increasing complexity in 2D animation. Traditional drawing skills are also emphasized, with application to storyboarding and concept art for animation. An additional fee is associated with this course.
Prerequisite: ART 2203
Offered fall semester
ART 3263 Graphic Design III Three hours
Advancing topics in the study of graphic design, with special attention paid to the areas of corporate identity and advertising design.
Prerequisites: ART 2263, 2503
Offered fall semester
ART 3273 Sequential Art and Storyboarding Three hours
An introduction to the techniques of using digital illustration to enhance the telling of a story. Projects offer students the opportunity to create storyboards, animatics, and sequential art illustration. Elements of story telling and script writing are also explored, and a strong emphasis is placed on drawing skills. An additional fee is associated with this course.
Prerequisite: ART 1243
Offered each semester
ART 3323 Figure Drawing Three hours
A visual study of the human anatomical construction. Emphasis on gesture, form, light source, shadow-mass, and composition.
Prerequisite: ART 1243
Offered spring semester
ART 3333 Introduction to Game Design Three hours
An examination of the concepts and structure of game design. A variety of digital tools and procedures are utilized, including scripting, text editing, graphics processing, and level theory. An additional fee is associated with this course.
Prerequisite: ART 2303
Offered spring semester
ART 3343 Public School Art Three hours
A study of child development and the art materials and processes used in the public schools. Emphasis is on developing and experiencing creative activities for the classroom.
Corequisite: MUS 3303
Offered fall semester (odd-numbered years, through 2007)
ART 3363 Watercolor Painting I Three hours
An introductory course into the media of watercolor. The basic techniques and materials are explored.
Prerequisite: ART 1123
Offered fall semester (odd-numbered years) and
Spring semester (even-numbered years)
ART 3373 Watercolor Painting II Three hours
Continuation of the study of watercolor painting, with emphasis on advanced techniques and creativity.
Prerequisite: ART 3363
Offered fall semester (odd-numbered years) and
Spring semester (even-numbered years)
ART 3383 Oil Painting I Three hours
Studio course with demonstrations, group critiques, and individual instruction to assist the student in learning the basic techniques of painting.
Prerequisite: ART 1243
Offered fall semester (even-numbered years) and
Spring semester (odd-numbered years)
ART 3393 Oil Painting II Three hours
Continuation of the study of oil painting, with emphasis on creativity.
Prerequisite: ART 3383
Offered fall semester (even-numbered years) and
Spring semester (odd-numbered years)
ART 3403 Film Theory and Criticism Three hours
An examination of the origins and development of film criticism and theory that includes both an analysis of selected motion pictures and the application of theoretical principles. Various schools of analysis are considered, including genre, auteur, feminist, Marxist, and Christian. An additional fee is associated with this course.
Prerequisites: ART 2103, 2113, 2123
Offered fall semester
ART 3453 Illustration I Three hours
An exploration of foundational illustration techniques. Rendering in various media is emphasized.
Offered fall semester (odd-numbered years)
ART 3463 Illustration II Three hours
An advancing study of illustration, with emphasis on creativity and solving conceptual problems.
Prerequisite: ART 3453
Offered spring semester (even-numbered years)
ART 3513 Fine Art Photography and Society Three hours
In the context of a study abroad program, an introduction to the historical genres and continuing methodologies of art photography as applicable to the human geography and social situations of the locale. Students gain hand-on experience as they apply various exercises that explore and evaluate artistic photography using creative methods. Projects involve producing photography in the traditions of nature, landscape, social documentary, and others. May substitute for ART 3133 in Visual Arts curricula. An additional fee is associated with this course.
Prerequisite: ART 2403
Offered summer
ART 3533 DVD Design and Authoring Three hours
An introduction to the concepts and structure of creating the content and authoring an interactive title for DVD. A variety of digital tools and procedures are employed, including scripting, text editing, graphics processing, and DVD design. An additional fee is associated with this course.
Prerequisite: ART 2303
Offered fall semester
ART 3543 Commercial Photography in Social Context Three hours
In the context of a study abroad program, an introduction to the commercial photography and the society of a host country. Students make careful observation of the use and effectiveness of commercial photography, and participate in hands-on assignments that attempt to use photography as a commercial influence. Participants often have opportunity to apply the knowledge as they work for a local publication, gaining both quality experience and portfolio enhancement. May substitute for ARTn4353 in Visual Arts curricula. An additional fee is associated with this course.
Prerequisite: ART 2403
Offered summer
ART 3743 Web Design and Authoring Three hours
An investigation of the concepts and structure of online communications employing interactive digital media. A variety of digital tools and procedures are utilized, including scripting, text editing, graphics processing, Internet access, web browsing,nfile transmission, and web page design. An additional fee is associated with thisncourse.
Prerequisite: ART 2303
Offered spring semester
ART 3883 Selected Topics Three hours
Study of a topic not directly addressed in the regular curriculum. Topics are chosen according to student need and departmental specialties. May be repeated for credit when a different topic is studied.
Offered upon sufficient request
ART 3913 Selected Topics in Digital Design Three hours
Topics are chosen from various computer applications such as video imaging, 2D and 3D graphics, animation, and other applications as demand requires.
Prerequisite: consent of instructor
Offered upon sufficient request
ART 4103 Portfolio and Presentation Three hours
Practical business aspects of the professions of graphic design, illustration, and digital media, including development of a free-lance business, interviewing for jobs, portfolio development, and self-promotion.
Prerequisite: senior standing
Offered spring semester
ART 4163 Non-Fiction Film Production Three hours
Analysis of the methods, genre, and history of non-fiction film, for application to hands-on documentary production. Progressive projects through the semester focus on personal student-led filmmaking, culminating in a finished film worthy of entry in documentary film festivals nationwide. An additional fee is associated with this course.
Prerequisites: ART 3403, 4973, and consent of instructor
Offered fall semester
ART 4173 Narrative Film Production Three hours
The application of traditional film roles within the field of digital cinema. Students are given the opportunity to man various crew assignments as they work to complete a short form narrative in one semester. An additional fee is associated with this course.
Prerequisite: ART 3403
Offered spring semester
ART 4253 3D Computer Animation III Three hours
Application of 3D animation skills to the techniques of character modeling and rigging, including character design. Good drawing skills are required. An additional fee is associated with this course.
Prerequisite: ART 3223
Offered fall semester
ART 4313 Illustration III Three hours
Designed to challenge students to further develop earlier illustration techniques and to introduce several advanced techniques, emphasis is on the production of professional portfolio-quality illustrations.
Prerequisite: ART 3463
Offered fall semester (even-numbered years)
ART 4343 Database Web Programming Three hours
An investigation of the concepts and structure of databases and the programming of web interfaces to work with these databases. A variety of digital tools and procedures are utilized, including database design, structured query languages, ASP and PHP. An additional fee is associated with this course.
Prerequisite: ART 3743
Offered fall semester
ART 4353 Commercial Studio Photography Three hours
An advanced look at the photographic areas of portraiture, food and beverage, fashion, industry, editorial, advertising, and self-promotion photography. The coursenincludes work with digital, 35mm, medium format, and professional 4x5 viewncameras. Studio lighting experience is gained with both strobe and ‘hot light’ setups.nAn additional fee is associated with this course.
Prerequisites: ART 2403, 3153
Offered fall semester
ART 4413 Graphic Design IV Three hours
Advanced projects and critique along with information and discussion on technical print production issues.
Prerequisite: ART 3263
Offered fall semester
ART 4423 Internship Three hours
On-the-job work experience in a creative position/business, as approved by the student’s advisor.
Prerequisite: consent of advisor
Offered each semester
ART 4963 Senior Comprehensive Project Three hours
Original interactive creative works demonstrating proficiency in the fundamental and specialized areas of digital media. Prospective graduates glean assistance through seminar discussion and interactive critiques as they refine their skills in preparation for the realities of the professional world. An additional fee is associated with this course.
Prerequisites: senior standing and consent of instructor
Offered each semester