Note: Not all courses will be offered every semester. Most courses are offered on a rotating basis. Please consult the Schedule of Classes online
for current offerings. This is especially important for the workshop
studio courses and special topics courses because they are offered
focusing on a variety of topics.
50:080:101Introduction to Studio Art (R) (3) Art majors may not take for credit. Introduction to concepts and
processes of making art. Studio projects complemented by lectures and
discussions on ways of looking at art, both past and present. Emphasis
on the development of each student's creative capacities and awareness.
50:080:102Visual Fundamentals (R) (3) An expansive exploration of traditional and contemporary two-dimensional design
concepts integrated with discussions and studio work that emphasize the
formal elements of design along with issues of identity, culture,
collaborative experience, and exposure to metaphor and symbol.Prerequisite to all upper-level studio classes.
50:080:103Three-Dimensional Foundations (R) (3) A hands-on exploration of architectural, natural, and digital design in
three dimensions. This studio-based class addresses how to create in
the physical world and answers the question of why forms take the
shapes that they do.
50:080:211Ceramics I (3) A dynamic, hands-on exploration of clay. Covers slab building, hand building, figurative work, surface
treatment, glazing techniques, and the firing process.Prerequisite: 50:080:102 or permission of instructor.
50:080:212Ceramics II (3) A continuing exploration of concepts and materials and techniques in
ceramics, emphasizing advanced hand building, figurative work,
mold making, and glaze techniques.Prerequisite: 50:080:211 or permission of instructor. May be repeated for credit with permission of instructor.
50:080:213Introduction to Computer Graphics (3)
Entry-level design course that provides students with technical skills and computer literacy to implement and produce graphic solutions. The course will provide an overview of Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign.
50:080:221Drawing I (R) (3) Drawing as independent art form and personal statement. Stresses both disciplined draftsmanship and imaginative composition and explores a variety of media. Prerequisite to all upper-level studio classes. Pre- or corequisite: 50:080:102 or permission of instructor.
50:080:222Drawing II (3) Continuing exploration of drawing as an expressive medium. Prerequisite: 50:080:221 or permission of instructor. May be repeated for credit with permission of instructor.
50:080:223Figure Drawing (3) Concentrates on the structure and anatomy of the human form. Emphasizes composition and drawing techniques related to the figure. Prerequisite: 50:080:221 or permission of instructor. May be repeated for credit with permission of instructor.
50:080:224Digital Hybrids (3) Explores the evolving relationship between digital technologies and traditional drawing media, methods, and practices. Art will incorporate traditional art media with digital technology. Prerequisites: 50:080:102, 213, 221; or permission of instructor.
50:080:225Color Theory (3) A theoretical and historical exploration of theories of color and the role of color in the visual arts. Prerequisite: 50:080:102.
50:080:226Introduction to Conceptual Art Making (3)An introduction to conceptual strategies that can be utilized to make
art. Traditional and nontraditional media are used in this studio-based
course to explore such topics as time, chance, risk, identity,
context, process, generative art, and performance. The work done in
class will be accompanied by lectures and readings that trace the
historical significance of each project. Students need no prior
background in art making to take this class.
50:080:229Drawing Workshop (BA) Covers many facets of drawing (both concepts and techniques) but with
concentration on one area of study each time the course is offered.
Check the Schedule of Classes to determine area of study.Prerequisite: 50:080:221 or permission of instructor. May be repeated for credit with permission of instructor.
50:080:233Graphic Design Workshop (BA) A studio workshop in various aspects of the graphic design field such
as typography, packaging, and illustration. Covers one area that
changes from semester to semester. Prerequisite: 50:080:331 or permission of instructor. May be repeated for credit with permission of instructor.
50:080:253Painting Workshop (BA) Explores a variety of problems and techniques, but with emphasis on one area each time the course is offered. Check the Schedule of Classes to determine area of study. Prerequisite: Prior studio art experience or permission of instructor. May be repeated for credit with permission of instructor.
50:080:261Photography I (3)
Photography I is an introductory studio course in the medium of black-and-white film photography. The photographic process, from making an exposure to creating a final print, will lead to the use of the photographic image as a means of expression. Students are expected to provide their own 35mm camera.
Prerequisite: 50:080:101 or 102, or permission of instructor. Students are expected to provide their own cameras and some basic materials.
50:080:262Photography II (3) This course is a continuation of Photography I. Basic camera and darkroom competence are assumed. Focuses on developing a personal vision through photographic imagery and communicating the vision through a coherent body of work. Prerequisite: 50:080:261 or permission of instructor. Students are expected to provide their own cameras and some basic materials. May be repeated for credit with permission of instructor.
50:080:263Photography Workshop (BA) Use of the medium of photography to explore a variety of creative
problems. A different area is covered each time the course is offered.
Check the Schedule of Classes to determine area of study. Prerequisite: 50:080:261. May be repeated for credit with permission of instructor.
50:080:264Digital Photography I (3) Digital Photography I is an introductory studio
course in the medium
of digital photography. This course offers a basic knowledge of the digital process,
including camera operation, exposure,
photo printing, web hosting, and preparing a final portfolio. State-of-the-art Adobe
photo editing software will be utilized. Students are expected to
provide their own camera.
Prerequisite: 50:080:102.
50:080:265Digital Photography II (3)
A continuation of Digital Photography I.
Basic digital technology competence is assumed. The focus of the course is the use of
advanced photo editing and printing techniques to increase the skill level
required for production of meaningful and effective imagery. DSLR type cameras
are required and must be provided by the student.
Prerequisite: 50:080:264 or permission of instructor.
50:080:271Printmaking (3) An exploration of basic concepts, materials, and techniques in printmaking. Prerequisites: 50:080:102 and 221, or permission of instructor. May be repeated for credit with permission of instructor.
50:080:279Animation Fundamentals (3) Prepares students for three-dimensional animation by providing exercises in a variety
of key concepts in animation, as well as experience with a number of
software programs. May be taken as part of a minor in film studies.Pre- or corequisite: 50:080:213.
50:080:280Classical Animation (3) Builds on traditional animation skills, working with both drawings and digital approaches.
The principles of classical animation and 2-D animation software will be
demonstrated. Students are expected to find their own style, working toward
personal career goals. May be repeated for credit with permission of instructor.
50:080:281Introducton to Video and Film (3) Exploration and survey of a variety of methods of video production and filmmaking using traditional videotaping equipment and Macintosh computer nonlinear editing and assembly to produce a range of videos or films. This course may be taken as part of a minor in media studies. Prerequisite: 50:080:213 or permission of instructor.
50:080:283Sculpture Workshop (BA) Provides fundamental concepts and techniques in a variety of sculptural
media, but emphasis is on one particular medium each time the course is
offered. Discusses historical, conceptual, technical, and aesthetic
aspects of the medium and techniques. Check the Schedule of Classes to determine area of study.Prerequisite: 50:080:381 or permission of instructor. May be repeated for credit with permission of instructor.
50:080:331Graphic Design I (3) An introduction to various aspects of graphic communications covering design concepts, typography, and composition. Students must complete the course with a C or better to continue in the concentration. Prerequisites: 50:080:102, 213, and 221, or permission of instructor.
50:080:332Graphic Design II (3) A continuation of Graphic Design I and a further exploration of the foundations of graphic design with an emphasis on conceptualization and execution of ideas. Explores a variety of concepts, methods, and technical skills. Prerequisite: 50:080:213, 331, or permission of instructor. May be repeated for credit with permission of instructor.
50:080:333Typography (3) Covers the fundamentals of typographic theory, practice, and history. Includes the study of letterforms, typographic text creation and composition, typographic expression and communication, hierarchy, and legibility. Prerequisite: 50:080:213, 331, or permission of instructor. May be repeated for credit with permission of instructor.
50:080:334Graphic Design Production (3) Examines graphic design methodology, process, and production techniques, balancing conceptual and practical skills. Building on design fundamentals, the course explores the stages of design: research, visualization, and production. Prerequisites: 50:080:331, 332, 333, and 437, or permission of instructor. May be repeated for credit with permission of instructor.
50:080:345Computer Multimedia (3) Presents students with an overview of multimedia components, focusing on graphics, text, video, audio, and animation elements. This course may be taken as part of a minor in media studies. Prerequisites: 50:080:281 and 331, or permission of instructor. May be repeated for credit with permission of instructor.
50:080:346Design for the World Wide Web (3) Graphic design and production techniques for web publishing. Applications used to create dynamic interactive webpages and websites. Building upon basic design skills, the student creates a variety of assignments. Emphasis on clarity of visual communication in this new medium. Prerequisites: 50:080:213 and 331, or permission of instructor. May be repeated for credit with permission of instructor.
50:080:347Environmental Design (3) An exploration of two- and three-dimensional design relating to the environment. Projects include murals, wall graphics, and redesigning exterior sites. Prerequisite: 50:080:102 or permission of instructor.
50:080:351Painting I (3) Introduction to painting concepts, media, and techniques. Prerequisites: 50:080:102 and 221, or permission of instructor.
50:080:352Painting II (3) A continuing exploration of painting concepts, media, and techniques. Emphasis on development of painting as a medium for personal visual expression. Prerequisite: 50:080:351 or permission of instructor.
50:080:353Painting III: Contemporary Issues in Painting (3)Examines a combination of various forms that are now referred to
and embraced as the "new" expanded notion of contemporary
painting. Through readings, visual and audio recordings, field
trips, presentations, and hands-on studio explorations, students will
deepen their understanding of the new conceptual and material ideas embedded in what is currently taking place in the field of painting.Prerequisite: 50:080:352 or permission of instructor. May be repeated for credit with permission of instructor.
50:080:355Elementary Art Education (3) Survey of the artistic growth of children. Survey of philosophies, issues, methods, materials, resources, processes, and strategies for teaching art in the elementary grades and integrating art into the curriculum. Prerequisite: 50:964:354 or permission of instructor.
50:080:356Secondary Art Education (3) Survey of the artistic growth of adolescents. Survey of philosophies, issues, methods, materials, resources, processes, and strategies for teaching art in the secondary grades and relating art to other areas of the curriculum. Prerequisite: 50:964:354 or permission of instructor.
50:080:381Sculpture I (3) An introduction to sculptural concepts, media, and techniques, emphasizing form, process, scale, and connectivity.Prerequisites: 50:080:103 and 221, or permission of instructor.
50:080:382Sculpture II (3) A continuing exploration of concepts, materials, and techniques
utilizing mold making, time-based media, and advanced work in sculpture
as an expressive medium.Prerequisite: 50:080:381 or permission of instructor. May be repeated for credit with permission of instructor.
50:080:386Computer Animation I (3) Provides a foundation in three-dimensional modeling, texturing,
lighting, and camera techniques through working with animation
software. This course may be taken as part of a minor in media studies. Prerequisite: 50:080:279 or permission of instructor.
50:080:387Computer Animation II (3) Exposes students to the conceptual and technical aspects of three-dimensional animation. Students are expected to develop an
understanding of how three-dimensional animation technology can be
applied in artistic creation and in digital industry settings. This
course may be taken as part of a minor in media studies. Prerequisite: 50:080:386 or permission of instructor. May be repeated for credit with permission of instructor.
50:080:391Individual Study in Studio Art (BA) Senior art major expected to further investigate the chosen area of emphasis; projects and research initiated by the student and approved by the faculty. Guidance and criticism offered by department staff, with occasional critiques by outside artists. Prerequisites: One course in advanced studio work and permission of instructor. May be repeated for credit with permission of instructor.
50:080:395Artist in Society (3) Explores the many facets of the artist's role historically and in
today's world. Concepts are examined through readings, discussion, and
public lecture.Prerequisite: Junior or senior art major standing or permission of instructor.
50:080:437Communication Design I (3) Explores visual solutions that convey information regarding products, services, and ideas. Investigates larger contexts for such visuals as packaging, corporate identity, publication, and signs. Emphasis on creating work suitable for a professional portfolio. Prerequisites: 50:080:332, 333, 346; or permission of instructor.
50:080:438Communication Design II (3)  A continuation of Communication Design I; students continue to explore fundamentals of good design, while adding to a body of work suitable for a professional design portfolio. Prerequisites: 50:080:332, 333, 437; or permission of instructor. May be repeated for credit with permission of instructor.
50:080:446Advanced Computer Studio (3) Project-oriented course. Develop computer-generated graphics and animation for specific purposes, including visual realizations of faculty research, promotional design and video for the campus, and other related projects. Prerequisite: Permission of instructor. Intended primarily for advanced electronic arts students. May be repeated for credit with permission of instructor.
50:080:447Video and Film Production (3) Advanced study and exploration of a variety of methods of video and filmmaking using traditional videotape and digital video equipment, with Macintosh computer nonlinear editing software. The student produces a range of films, from creative short subjects to films dedicated to specific promotional purposes. Additionally, the laboratory portion of the class makes use of the animation studio and its Unix-based computer editing equipment. This course may be taken as part of a minor in media studies. Prerequisite: 50:080:281 or permission of instructor. May be repeated for credit with permission of instructor.
50:080:448Character Animation (3) Deepens students' understanding of three-dimensional character
animation techniques by applying animation principles. This course may
be taken as part of a minor in media studies. Prerequisites: 50:080:386 and 387, or permission of instructor. May be repeated for credit with permission of instructor.
50:080:449Animation Production (3) Offers practical experience in preproduction and production practices for animation. Covers such topics as animation storyboards, character design, effects, compositing, and editing. This course may be taken as part of a minor in media studies. Prerequisite: 50:080:448 or permission of instructor. May be repeated for credit with permission of instructor.
50:080:451Advanced Painting (3) Advanced study in painting with emphasis on developing and refining an individual point of view and personal means of expression. Experimentation encouraged, but attention is also given to further knowledge of materials, techniques, and theories of painting. Explores both traditional and contemporary stylistic approaches. Prerequisite: 50:080:353 or permission of instructor. May be repeated for credit with permission of instructor.
50:080:457Advanced Video and Film Production (3)Students will explore concepts and techniques of screenwriting, digital editing, and film compositing and effects. Each student will develop an individual video from preproduction to postproduction. Students will create a production book and a final cut of their project. Prerequisite: 50:080:447 or permission of instructor. May be repeated for credit with permission of instructor.
50:080:460Advanced Photography (3)Advanced study in photography with a focus on refining a personal vision. Experimentation with traditional and alternative photo methods is encouraged.Prerequisite: 50:080:261 or permission of instructor. May be repeated for credit with permission of instructor.
50:080:461Studio and Commercial Photography (3)Focus on the skills required for a career in photography. Areas covered include production, assistants, models, technique,
equipment, and business matters.
Prerequisite: 50:080:264 or permission of instructor. Intended primarily for majors with a photography concentration.
50:080:481Advanced Sculpture (3) Concentrated study of particular modes of expression and techniques designed to allow the advanced student to prepare for graduate work or other field specialization. Prerequisite: 50:080:382 or permission of instructor. May be repeated for credit with permission of instructor.
50:080:484Special Studio Projects (BA) Working closely with a studio faculty adviser, the student develops and executes a specified series of art works. Prerequisite: Permission of instructor. May be repeated for credit with permission of instructor.
50:080:488Postproduction (3) Explores postproduction techniques for animation, film, video, and audio. Focuses on the production-related aspects of rendering, transforming, converting, importing, exporting, compositing, effects, and sound. This course may be taken as part of a minor in media studies. Prerequisites: 50:080:386, 447, and 449; or permission of instructor. May be repeated for credit with permission of instructor.
50:080:489Special Topics in Electronic Arts (3) An exploration of specific topics in the areas of animation or graphic design. Topics vary from semester to semester. Prerequisite: Permission of instructor. May be repeated for credit with permission of instructor.
50:080:491Electronic Arts Internship (BA) An internship with an agency, design studio, or computer graphics company. The student qualifies by presenting a portfolio and performs those duties required by the studio; learns new concepts and techniques through in-house preparation and execution of artwork (40 hours of internship per credit.) Prerequisite: Permission of instructor. Credit dependent upon hours worked.
50:080:492Art Internship (BA) An internship in some area of art, which may involve working with arts
institutions or artists in the area or some other activity that
advances the student's knowledge of some area of art.Prerequisite: Permission of instructor. Credit dependent upon hours worked. Coordinated by the art program.
50:080:497-498Honors in Art (3,3) Requires an independent and advanced studio project under the supervision of a professor in studio art or electronic arts. Candidates for honors in studio art or electronic arts must, at the end of their junior year, have a cumulative grade-point average of 3.2 or better and an average of 3.5 or better in the major.