Undergraduate Art Courses

ARTS 1100. Transitioning to University Studies in Art and Digital Media. 1 Credit Hour (Lecture: 1 Hour, Lab: 1 Hour).

Practical study designed to prepare the student for university life, aid in the development of skills for academic success, promote personal growth and responsibility, and encourage active involvement in the learning process from an individual college perspective. These skill sets are presented in the context of art and digital media disciplines.

ARTS 1301. Art Appreciation. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 3 Hours, Lab: 0 Hours).

A theory course designed to introduce the trends, techniques, styles, and major personalities of the visual arts.

ARTS 1303. Art History I. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 3 Hours, Lab: 0 Hours).

A chronological examination of painting, sculpture, architecture and related visual arts. Emphasis is placed on Western art, from prehistoric times to the end of the Gothic Period, but will include aspects of non-European art as well.

ARTS 1304. Art History II. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 3 Hours, Lab: 0 Hours).

A chronological examination of painting, sculpture, architecture and related visual arts. Emphasis is placed on Western art, from early Renaissance to the present, but will include aspects of non-European art as well.

ARTS 1311. Design I. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 2 Hours, Lab: 4 Hours).

Emphasis on two-dimensional design; includes the fundamentals of line, color, form, texture, shape, space, and arrangement. Medias such as drawing, painting, and digital design will be introduced.

ARTS 1312. Design II. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 2 Hours, Lab: 4 Hours).

Continuation of Design I with emphasis on three-dimension concepts. Tools for construction of 3D objects will be covered including digital fabrication, manual and electronic equipment, and 3D display techniques. Lab fee: $2.

ARTS 1316. Drawing I. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 2 Hours, Lab: 4 Hours).

A beginning course investigating a variety of media, techniques, and subjects, exploring perceptual and descriptive possibilities and consideration of drawing as a development process as well as an end in itself.

ARTS 1317. Drawing II. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 2 Hours, Lab: 4 Hours).

Expansion of Drawing I stressing expressive and conceptual drawing aspects, including the human figure within a spatial environment. Prerequisite: ARTS 1316.

ARTS 2313. Graphic Design Fundamentals. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 2 Hours, Lab: 4 Hours).

Introduces the field of Graphic Design, including basic terminology, visual communication skills, problem solving, and software tools.

ARTS 2316. Painting I. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 2 Hours, Lab: 4 Hours).

An introduction to painting media with an emphasis on color, composition, and self expression. Prerequisite: ARTS 1311, 1316, 1317, or approval of department head. Lab fee: $2.

ARTS 2326. Sculpture I. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 2 Hours, Lab: 4 Hours).

Sculpture is a introductory course designed to develop skills in building three-dimensional form by learning to work with a variety of tools and techniques. Special emphasis will be put on artistic and conceptual development. Prerequisite: ARTS 1312 or instructor permission.

ARTS 2344. Game Design. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 2 Hours, Lab: 4 Hours).

This introductory course, which explores both digital and non-digital games, aims to provide a critical vocabulary and historical context for analyzing games as an art form and mode of expression. Students will be encouraged to create meaningful play and interactive experiences in various forms of media. Lab fee: $10.

ARTS 2348. Digital Art I. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 2 Hours, Lab: 4 Hours).

Introduction to the concepts and techniques utilized in the creation of digital media design and art, including digital imaging, vector graphics, animation, and page layout for print and web. Lab fee: $2.

ARTS 2356. Photography I. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 2 Hours, Lab: 4 Hours).

This course covers basic to intermediate digital camera operation, production, software, and professional display techniques. The course will focus on developing technical proficiency, aesthetic skills, and will examine the medium's history and use in contemporary society. Lab fee: $10.

ARTS 3000. Portfolio Review. 0 Credit Hours (Lecture: 0 Hours, Lab: 0 Hours).

ARTS 3310. Introduction to Art Education. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 3 Hours, Lab: 0 Hours).

This course is designed to assist the preparing classroom teacher in developing a basic knowledge of art and art teaching at the grade school level so they can integrate meaningful visual art experiences into effective lesson plans and curriculum development. Prerequisite: Design 1 ARTS 1311.

ARTS 3311. Experimental Media Studio. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 2 Hours, Lab: 4 Hours).

A studio course in experimentation in two- and three-dimensional media and techniques. May be taken for credit twice. Prerequisite: ARTS 1312, 1317 or department head approval. Lab fee: $2.

ARTS 3321. Life Drawing. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 2 Hours, Lab: 4 Hours).

An advanced drawing course based on the observation of the human figure and interpretation through a variety of drawing techniques. Will be using live models in class. Prerequisite: ARTS 1316 Lab fee: $2.

ARTS 3331. Art History of America. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 3 Hours, Lab: 0 Hours).

A study of the art of America from pre-Columbian periods to the present.

ARTS 3332. Contemporary Movements in Art. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 3 Hours, Lab: 0 Hours). [WI]

This course will survey the Visual Arts since the Second World War, primarily in the United States and Europe, but with some consideration of developments in the larger international arena. Examines the major movements of art including Post-Modernism, Conceptual Art, Digital Media, and other movements in relation to biographical and formal concerns, contemporary social and political conditions, and current art history debates.

ARTS 3333. Art History of the Non-Western World. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 3 Hours, Lab: 0 Hours).

This course is designed to introduce students to works of art in various media developed outside of the European tradition.

ARTS 3334. History of Photography and Lens-Based Media. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 3 Hours, Lab: 0 Hours).

This course will survey the history of photography from its orgins to our present digital image culture. Important movements, photographers, theoretical and technical innovations will be examined as to how they define photography’s broader role in the visual arts and in modern life. Prerequisite: n/a.

ARTS 3335. Game History and Culture. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 3 Hours, Lab: 0 Hours).

History and theory of traditional and video games with a focus on innovation and cultural impact. Students will have the opportunity to explore, play, and critically assess various facets of gaming, spanning from vintage traditional games to contemporary electronically mediated titles, and encompassing both solo and collaborative online gaming experiences. This course will discuss how gaming has had a defining influence in our culture, as a significant influence in society, laws, gender and ethnic politics, business, artistic expression, and academia.

ARTS 3341. Painting II. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 2 Hours, Lab: 4 Hours).

A continued investigation of the technical qualities and expressive possibilities of painting media with emphasis on personal and stylistic development. Prerequisite: ARTS 2316 or approval of department head. Lab fee: $2.

ARTS 3351. Sculpture II. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 2 Hours, Lab: 4 Hours).

An advanced investigation of the cultural techniques, methods and media of Sculpture. Prerequisite: ARTS 1312, 1316 or approval of department head. Lab fee: $2.

ARTS 3352. Ceramics. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 2 Hours, Lab: 4 Hours).

This class introduces students to the ancient craft of working with clay. Students will experience hand-building techniques including pinch, coil, and slab. Wheel throwing is introduced with expectations for basic levels of achievement, including cylinder, bowl, and plate forms. Lab fee: $2.

ARTS 3360. Graphic Design I. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 2 Hours, Lab: 4 Hours).

This is an advanced studio course in contemporary graphic design. Advanced problem solving activities are structured to increase graphic design awareness and skills. Prerequisite: ARTS 2313 or 2348 or instructor permission.

ARTS 3361. Photography II. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 2 Hours, Lab: 4 Hours).

An intermediate level studio art course intended for students wishing to further their creative abilities using contemporary photographic techniques. Students will be further their technical skills and artistic vision through hands-on practice, lectures and demonstrations. Prerequisite: ARTS 2348 or instructor approval. Lab fee: $2.

ARTS 3362. Narrative Illustration I. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 2 Hours, Lab: 4 Hours).

This studio course is an introduction to the ever-changing and exciting world of contemporary narrative illustration in all its capacities. Through lectures, assignments and research, students become exposed to and experience the multiple facets of illustration, such as narrative/book illustration, editorial, advertising/marketing, sequential art (such as storyboarding for commercials, etc.), concept art, character development, etc. Prerequisite: ARTS 2348 or instructor approval. Lab fee: $2.

ARTS 3363. Tradigital Animation I. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 2 Hours, Lab: 4 Hours).

This class is an intermediate study of 2D animation with digital software. Techniques may include stop motion, cut out animation, and digital based drawing animation. Short films and scenes of feature animated and live action feature film will be used to illustrate the many concepts studied in this class. Lab fee: $2.

ARTS 3364. 3D Animation I. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 3 Hours, Lab: 3 Hours).

Introduction to the art of 3D animation. Students learn how to plot, script, storyboard, present, and create animations using the principles of animation and basic techniques, including staging, timing, mechanics and kinetics. Also, this class will introduce students to the process of technical creation of animated imagery through various media including traditional hand-drawn methods up to 3D computer applications. Prerequisite: ARTS 3383, or instructor approval Lab fee: $2.

ARTS 3365. Special Effects and Compositing I. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 2 Hours, Lab: 4 Hours).

This intermediate studio course explores various aspects of special effects and compositing multimedia. Students will learn how to composite robust and immersive experiences by combining the elements of graphics, special effects and visual effects, animation, video, and audio to make effective multimedia works. Prerequisite: ARTS 2344 or instructor approval. Lab fee: $2.

ARTS 3366. 3D Video Game Environment I. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 2 Hours, Lab: 4 Hours).

This studio art course will cover 2D- and 3D-level setting design for video games and animation. Students will learn tools and concerns as well as develop the skills used to create 2D and 3D game level designs by using architectural theory, concepts of critical path and flow, balancing, lighting, game play experience, and various storytelling techniques for level design. Lab fee: $2.

ARTS 3368. Narrative Film Arts I. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 2 Hours, Lab: 4 Hours).

This intermediate studio course will cover production of short films using digital video and other experimental approaches. Emphasis on video concepts, techniques, composition, sequencing of ideas, and narrative structures. Lab fee: $2.

ARTS 3369. Experimental Photography. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 2 Hours, Lab: 4 Hours).

This studio course explores experimental photographic alternatives to the traditional methods of image making. Emphasis will be placed on using the camera, analog and historical techniques, and digital and emerging technology.

ARTS 3371. Printmaking. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 2 Hours, Lab: 4 Hours).

The basic printmaking processes including planographic, intaglio, stencil, and relief. May be taken for credit twice. Prerequisite: ARTS 1311, 1316, or approval of department head. Lab fee: $2.

ARTS 3372. Typography. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 2 Hours, Lab: 4 Hours).

Studio class for the study of the aesthetics, history, and practice of typography as it relates to visual communication and graphic design. This course will cover letterforms, terminology, and the history and use of typography in graphic design communications. Prerequisite: ARTS 2313.

ARTS 3373. Publication Design I. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 2 Hours, Lab: 4 Hours).

This studio course explores graphic design for publication. Assignments examine and develop creative solutions for graphic design and methods of publishing in print utilizing software applications in graphic design and contemporary publishing.

ARTS 3374. Digital Media Design I. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 2 Hours, Lab: 4 Hours).

A studio course that explores of a variety of design strategies that utilize digital technologies and screen based design strategies; emphasis on topics such as web based design, motion graphics, and electronic publishing. Prerequisite: ARTS 2313 or 2348.

ARTS 3383. 3D Modeling. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 2 Hours, Lab: 4 Hours).

Introduction to the basic modeling tools and techniques within 3D computer applications. Students will create 3D models, simple animations, basic lighting/rendering, texturing while using the basic modeling tool sets; NURBS, Polygons and Subdivision Surfaces. Lab fee: $10.

ARTS 4086. Individual Problems in Art. 1-6 Credit Hours (Lecture: 0 Hours, Lab: 1-6 Hours).

Art problems assigned in the area of the student's individual interest with emphasis on individual development. Prerequisite: ARTS 1317.

ARTS 4341. Painting III. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 2 Hours, Lab: 4 Hours).

An advanced investigation of the technical qualities and expressive possibilities of painting media with emphasis on research and presentation strategies. Lab fee: $2.

ARTS 4342. Painting IV. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 2 Hours, Lab: 4 Hours).

This advanced studio course is for further developing students' existing abilities and interests in paint media. Geared towards those pursuing professional practices in paint and Senior Capstone projects.

ARTS 4351. Sculpture III. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 2 Hours, Lab: 4 Hours).

This advanced studio course course focuses on specific topics and practices in contemporary sculptural installation works. Technical instruction may include sculptural and architectural model building, wood, metal, and plastic fabrication, lighting, sound works, video works, and cloth and alternative material fabrication methods. Lab fee: $2.

ARTS 4360. Graphic Design II. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 2 Hours, Lab: 4 Hours).

Advanced problems in both the print and web areas of graphic design, emphasizing a versatile, well-rounded and high-quality portfolio that will serve students as they pursue employment in the design field. Prerequisite: ARTS 2313 or 2348 or instructor permission.

ARTS 4361. Photography III. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 2 Hours, Lab: 4 Hours).

Advanced studio course in photography and digital image production with an emphasis on on conceptual development and professional display and publication in a variety of media, such as print, web, and mobile devices. Emphasis on visual communication strategies and creative thinking. Prerequisite: ARTS 3361. Lab fee: $2.

ARTS 4362. Narrative Illustration II. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 2 Hours, Lab: 4 Hours).

This course is an advanced studio course that explores digital illustration as a form of creative expression. Students will create a larger body of work in preparation for an artistic exhibition or a public presentation. Students will use their advanced skills in illustration to construct a professional portfolio and investigate possible artistic, commercial, and industrial opportunities. Students will be encouraged to develop a personal style in a variety of media. Prerequisite: ARTS 3362 Lab fee: $2.

ARTS 4363. Tradigital Animation II. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 2 Hours, Lab: 4 Hours).

This class is an advanced study of 2 dimensional animation with digital software. Techniques may include stop motion, cut out animation, and digital based drawing animation. Students will be encouraged to develop their own projects and short films from the concept stage to completion. Prerequisite: ARTS 3363 Lab fee: $2.

ARTS 4364. 3D Animation II. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 2 Hours, Lab: 4 Hours).

Advanced studio course in animation. Students will be expected how to plan, develop, and produce animations using the principles of animation and advanced techniques. Advanced topics such as character kinematics, gait movement, lighting and textures will be covered. Prerequisite: ARTS 3364. Lab fee: $2.

ARTS 4365. Special Effects and Compositing II. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 2 Hours, Lab: 4 Hours).

This advanced studio course explores various aspects of special effects and compositing multimedia. Students will furthur their skills in how to composite robust and immersive experiences by combining the elements of graphics, special effects and visual effects, animation, video, and audio to make an effective multimedia presentation. Prerequisite: ARTS 3365. Lab fee: $2.

ARTS 4366. 3D Video Game Environment II. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 2 Hours, Lab: 4 Hours).

This advanced studio art course will cover 2D- and 3D-level setting design for video games and animation. Students will create content from commercial game engines that show advanced levels of skill and expression of content. Prerequisite: ARTS 3366. Lab fee: $2.

ARTS 4367. 3D Rendering and Lighting. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 2 Hours, Lab: 4 Hours).

This advanced course is designed to cover concepts involved in the digital application of texture maps for virtual 3D models, 3D material qualities and characteristics, digital lighting concepts and design, and rendering methods. The importance of digital cinematography, scene arrangement, and compositing of 3D elements of color, camera and light are goals of aesthetic integration. Prerequisite: ARTS 2344. Lab fee: $10.

ARTS 4368. Narrative Film Arts II. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 2 Hours, Lab: 4 Hours).

This advanced studio course will cover production of short films using digital video and other experimental approaches. Emphasis on more independently directed short films. Prerequisite: ARTS 3368 or COMS 3308.

ARTS 4370. Interaction Design. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 2 Hours, Lab: 4 Hours).

This is an advanced studio art course that explores the use of programming skills in the creation of creative mobile web applications, as well as other kinds of digital environments. Technical skills that will combine the use of graphics, audio, and video along with sensible interface design will be covered. Resources will be provided for students with no programming background. Lab fee: $10.

ARTS 4371. Advanced Studio Production. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 2 Hours, Lab: 4 Hours).

A guided project-based course with emphasis on portfolio preparation for Art and Digital Media students. Lab fee: $2.

ARTS 4372. Collaborative Production. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 2 Hours, Lab: 4 Hours).

This course is a product driven course for the Art and Digital Media Studies Program. Students will form teams and collaborate with another using their talents and expertise to develop a digital media project as assigned by the instructor. Emphasis will be placed on collaboration both inside the classroom, and across disciplines.

ARTS 4373. Graphic Design Production. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 2 Hours, Lab: 4 Hours).

An advanced studio course covering professional standards in print, digital, and emerging media with an emphasis on production. Assignments and demonstrations will help students in their development of a professional portfolio of work. Prerequisite: ARTS 3360 or 3373 or 3374.

ARTS 4374. Digital Media Design II. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 2 Hours, Lab: 4 Hours).

A studio course that further explores of a variety of design strategies that utilize digital technologies and screen based design strategies; emphasis on production of screen-based products. Prerequisite: ARTS 3374.

ARTS 4375. Aerial Photography and Video. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 2 Hours, Lab: 4 Hours).

This advanced studio class will introduce will examine the use of small unmanned aerial systems, otherwise known as drones, as a photographic medium. This course will cover the techniques and best practices required to fly safely, successfully utilize and operate drones for commercial purposes and artistic practices. Prerequisite: ARTS 2356.

ARTS 4376. Publication Design II. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 2 Hours, Lab: 4 Hours).

This studio course further explores graphic design for publication. Advanced assignments examine and develop creative solutions for publishing graphic design projects. Prerequisite: ARTS 3373.

ARTS 4380. Post Studio Practice. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 2 Hours, Lab: 4 Hours).

Students encounter art methods that are primarily executed outside of the studio setting. Students will become aware of the importance of place and how a work can be situated in response to it. This will include object-based participatory works, installation methods in response to specific locations, ephemeral works, social engagement and interactions with audiences, and other collaborative methods. Lab fee: $2.

ARTS 4384. Internship in Art or Digital Media. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 3 Hours, Lab: 0 Hours).

Approved and supervised work experience in art or digital media related positions. May be repeated once for a total of 6 hours of academic credit. Prerequisites: Junior standing and 12 hours Art or approval of department head.

ARTS 4385. Art Seminar. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 2 Hours, Lab: 4 Hours).

Content varies according to the needs of students and opportunities available. When topic varies, course may be repeated for credit. Prerequisite: Junior classification or approval of department head.

ARTS 4390. Art/ Digital Media Portfolio Capstone I. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 2 Hours, Lab: 4 Hours). [WI]

In the first segment of this advanced level two-semester course students focus on developing a cohesive body of work in a medium and subject matter of their choosing. This course culminates with a public review of your portfolio in preparation of the following year's capstone exhibition. Prerequisite: Art majors seeking education certification must take this course before the semester in which they are student teaching. Lab fee: $2.

ARTS 4391. Art/ Digital Media Portfolio Capstone II. 3 Credit Hours (Lecture: 2 Hours, Lab: 4 Hours).

In the second half of this advanced level two-semester course, students focus on professional skills related to Art and Digital Media. Topics under discussion include: the transition from student to professional, job searches, freelancing, grant applications, graduate school options and trends in contemporary art and design.This course culminates with a senior thesis exhibition. Prerequisite: ARTS 4390.