FD100 Drawing 1. (3 credits)
Explores the development of seeing/drawing skills and sensitivity toward the aesthetics of form and space including linear perspective, mark making, value, line and line quality. Students work in black and white media on a variety of papers from still-life, landscape and self-portrait.
FD110 Drawing 2. (3 credits)
Continuation of FD100 with continued emphasis on mark making, full value studies, point-of-view selection, basic compositional ideas and space.
Prerequisite: FD100
FD111 Drawing 2t. (3 credits)
Specifically designated for transfer students who need to repeat FD110 in order to be better prepared for subsequent coursework at MCA.
FD120 2-D Design. (3 credits)
Explores the vocabulary, premises and methods of visual events on the flat plane through a series of lectures, experimental exercises and applied problems.
FD130 3-D Design. (3 credits)
Volume, space organization, structure, texture, mass and tension are explored through a series of short projects using simple construction materials and techniques. Equipment use and safety instruction are included.
FD140 Idea, Process and Criticism. (3 credits)
An interdisciplinary course combining an introduction to digital information relative to art-making and two additional media/disciplines (i.e. photography, printmaking, surface design, sculpture). Different instructors teach integrated sections of the course, with classes rotating through the different experiences and faculty during the course of the semester. Students work individually and collaboratively in mixed media on 2- and 3-D projects that stress concepts, context and narrative.
FD150 Digital Basics (1 credit)
This course covers the basics of computer usage for our labs: Printing, Scanning, Server Access and branches into file transfer, file extensions and compression formats. By course completion, students are able to deliver any file on any platform to a potential client through a range of media (CD, print, Internet).
Satisfactory completion of all Foundation coursework is a prerequisite for all courses beyond the introductory level within individual area concentrations.
DM105 Introduction to Computer Graphics. (3 credits)
Fundamentals of computer operations, graphical user interface, scanning, and printing are introduced. Concentration on 2D imaging creation is the focus of this course. Students will use raster, vector, and layout programs to create original works.
Prerequisite: None
DM200 Introduction to Animation Techniques. (3 credits)
An introduction to the principles and history of animation. Working with digital programs, as well as pre-cinematic toys, rotoscoping, and live pixilation, students will explore “persistence of vision” the process by which we perceive movement through still images. Students will also gain a solid foundation in the history and techniques of animation through screenings and readings.
Prerequisite: All Foundation coursework
DM230 Dynamic Imaging 1. (3 credits)
This course will provide design strategies and techniques for creating time-based compositions using typography, video, sound and image sequencing. Through lectures, practical assignments and critiques students will gain a technical command of After Effects Software as well as the conceptual skills necessary for pre-production planning, storyboarding, and design of digital motion sequences.
Prerequisite: All Foundation Coursework, DM270
DM240 Digital Imaging 1. (3 credits)
Students develop knowledge of image development, construction, retouching, and collage techniques using traditional film, digital images, and drawing as source material. A critical examination of intent will be stressed along with output options and color management. The implications of the digital image and new technologies are discussed and researched from both a personal and societal view.
Prerequisite: All Foundation coursework, DM105, PH100
DM270 Digital Cinema 1. (3 credits)
This course is an introduction to the elements of digital cinema production. Focuses on directing, crew responsibilities, camera operation, lenses, lighting and sound recording. Beyond the basic skills necessary for field production students will also become proficient using the non-linear editing software Final Cut Pro. The basics of DVD creation using DVD Studio Pro including media capturing, video and audio encoding, interface design and testing are also introduced.
Prerequisite: All Foundation coursework, DM105 or GD200
DM310 3-D Computer Animation. (3 credits)
Gain experience with creating 3-D animation, including geometric modeling, lighting, camera angles, texture formation, skeleton rigging and motion in a three-dimensional animation package. Students will learn underlying principles of 3-D animation, including perspective, transformations, lighting and shadows, and modeling natural phenomena and motion.
Prerequisite: DM225, permission of instructor
DM325 Advanced Animation Workshop. (3 credits)
Open to students who have completed DM225, DM250, or DM300, this course is an intensive workshop in which students will create a finished animation in their preferred medium. Special attention will be paid to realistic production goals, thorough pre-production and storyboarding, and sound design for animation. There will be weekly critiques, and students are expected to spend significant time working outside of class to make the progress necessary to bring an animation project to full fruition.
Prerequisite: DM225, permission of instructor
DM330 Dynamic Imaging 2. (3 credits)
The goal of this course is to expand the
student's conceptual and technical understanding of digital motion
sequencing as presented in Dynamic Imaging 1. Special emphasis will be
placed on the post-production processes of stylization, enhancement,
and creation of digital effects.
Prerequisite: DM230
DM370 Digital Cinema 2. (3 credits)
This is an advanced level production course.
Students are pushed to further develop the technical processes
introduced in CA270. Special instructional emphasis is given to
cinematography and lighting.
Prerequisite: DM270
DM420 Interactive Media. (3 credits)
The focus of this course is the communication of content within and interactive format. Students will learn to synthesize media elements drawing from their existing skills in digital cinema production, computer animation, and digital imaging to create interactive screen-based experiences. Technical instruction emphasizes Flash animation and Action Script programming.
Prerequisite: All Foundation coursework, permission of instructor
GD200 Design System 1. (3 credits)
This studio introduction to visual communication explores the unique meanings and principles of design and its supporting elements. As a companion to the first semester, students are instructed on a Macintosh platform utilizing the current professional design software: Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Photoshop, Adobe InDesign, and QuarkXpress.
Prerequisite: All Foundation coursework
GD300 Design System 3. (3 credits)
Design System 3 calls attention to the experimental integration of structures, imagery, and typography as form. Extended thought is placed on the systems of letterforms in relation to history and technology. A project example, Volume Discourse, examines the multiple utilizing the College's Vandercook letterpress and digital technology.
Prerequisite: GD205
GD400 Design System 5. (3 credits)
The final year sequence commences with Design System 5, a comprehensive course in a professional and rigorous studio environment. The system accentuates a continued linear design methodology and its proven tenets. Concurrently presented multi-level projects are designed to simulate the vigor and expectations of a practicing professional.
Prerequisite: GD305
IL240 Illustration 1: Drawing for Illustration. (3 credits)
This is an introductory course in the fundamentals of representational drawing for the purposes of communication. Images are created in several media, utilizing a variety of visual references, including photography, life, memory, and found sources. Conceptualization, composition, clear rendering, and staging of the figure are emphasized.
Prerequisite: All Foundation coursework and Co-requisite: DW220
IL320 Illustrated Story 2: Comics & Picture Books. (3 credits)
Building on the skills developed in Illustrated Story 1, students develop long-form illustrated stories, and study professional and production requirements of the comics, children's books, and cartooning marketplace.
Prerequisite: IL220
IL360 Illustration 3: Professional Applications. (3 credits)
This course is an overview of Illustration as a field. Assignments reflect the scope of Illustration, including Editorial, Children's, Business, and Book, using a combination of digital and traditional media. Emphasis is placed on concept development, communication, and professional practice.
Prerequisite: IL270, GD200
IL365 Illustration 4. (3 credits)
This course continues the survey of Illustration as a practice begun in Illustration 3. Assignments reflect the scope of Illustration, including Editorial, Entertainment, and Information Illustration. An emphasis is placed on concept development, communication, and professional practice, with a particular focus on developing visual metaphors and integrating Illustration with type and graphic design.
Prerequisite: IL360
This class is also available to non-Illustration concentrations as an elective at the Senior level.
IL460 Illustration 5: Visual Essay. (3 credits)
n pursuit of a personal voice and process, students develop Visual Essays: self-directed series of related images on chosen subjects. Additionally, the professional business and contractual practices necessary for a working Illustrator are covered in detail.
Prerequisite: IL365
TD250 Color Studies. (3 credits)
This course is an introduction to the principles of color mixing and design. It briefly covers the most significant aspects of various figures in the history of color theory; however it is a studio class based on the actual experience of color. It involves a variety of 2-D and 3-D assignments based on specific color effects or situations, which the student can interpret to solve any given problem. Recognizing that color is the most relative and temporal of art elements, the course seeks to remove color usage solely from the realm of intuition and instinct and put the student in the position of making informed decisions.
Prerequisite: None
DW200 Life Drawing. (3 credits)
Life Drawing explores the "anatomy of drawing." Primary focus is on the structure of the human figure through planar development and the understanding of spatial relationships. Exposure to advanced problem solving, the raising of conceptual and technical skill levels, increased self-discipline and enhanced analytical thinking are essential parts of the class structure. May be taken concurrently with Drawing Composition. May be repeated 3 times (DW201,202,203).
Prerequisite: all Foundation coursework
DW220 Drawing Composition. (3 credits)
This course is an extension of the skills and ideas developed in 2-D, 3-D, Drawing 1 and 2 with a concentration on design of 2-D picture plane. Underlying the assignments are various representations of space based on late 19th and 20th century Modern models. Students may take this course concurrently with Life Drawing.
Prerequisite: all Foundation coursework
DW320 Contemporary Concepts in Drawing. (3 credits)
Both Modern and Post-modern ideas are emphasized with particular stress given to honing critical abilities, raising conceptual and technical levels, and increased self-discipline. Students are pressed to increase their familiarity with a variety of styles and develop their ability to work within a broad range of mediums. The course may be taken concurrently with Drawing Workshop.
Prerequisite: DW200, DW220
DW410 Advanced Drawing. (3 credits)
n this seminar class, students work with the instructor on an individual basis and in-group critiques. The focus is on developing the student's ideas and skills with the goal of a more individual and personal approach to art-making. May be repeated 3 times (DW411, DW412, DW413).
Prerequisite: DW360
PH100 Photography 1: Beginning Practices. (3 credits)
In this course, students become technically proficient in basic black and white photography, including exposure, developing, printing and presentation. Photography is presented as a tool to understand the world and as a means of expression and communication. Students learn how to interpret and discuss the visual language of photography.
Prerequisite: None
DM240 Digital Imaging 1. (3 credits)
Students develop knowledge of image development, construction, retouching, and collage techniques using traditional film, digital images, and drawing as source material. A critical examination of intent is stressed along with output options and color management. The implications of the digital image and new technologies are discussed and researched from both a personal and societal view.
Prerequisite: All Foundation coursework, DM105, PH100
PH300 Photography 3: Contemporary & Advanced Techniques. (3 credits)
This studio course explores the photograph in contemporary art. Photography's integral tie to light serves as the backbone of this course as it investigates the alternative and contemporary spaces used by photographic artists. Students explore the extension of the photograph off the page and into the realm of installation, performance and projection. Digital and analog tools and skills blur as students are encouraged to experiment and challenge their ideas of what defines a photograph.
Prerequisite: PH250 and Co-requisite DM240
PH325 Studio Lighting. (3 credits)
This is a course on studio lighting as it applies to fine art and commercial photography. The course includes technical instruction in the lighting studio as well as on location with both portable lights and natural light. Students will use a wide range of analog and digital cameras. This course is defined by critiques and continued technical and conceptual advancement.
Prerequisites: PH310
PH375 Photography 5: Advanced Critique. (3 credits)
Through assignments, extended projects, critique, discussions and critical readings and writings, students continue to build technical skills and explore their personal photographic vision. This senior level course provides an overview of various interdisciplinary approaches to photography. Fundamentals of photographic theory and criticism are introduced as students are prepared for Photo Seminar.
Prerequisite: PH300, PH310
PM100 Printmaking 1: Monotype, et al. (3 credits)
This course is an introduction to the tools, history and basic techniques of monotype, drypoint, relief print (woodcut or linocut) and lithography. Students are encouraged to explore the problems and concerns of their own images technically and conceptually through multiples and one-of-a-kind prints.
Prerequisite: None
PM105 Printmaking 1: Etching, et al. (3 credits)
An introduction to the tools, history and basic techniques of etching, collograph, serigraphy, and monoprint. Students are encouraged to explore the problems and concerns of their own images technically and conceptually through multiples and one-of-a-kind prints.
Prerequisite: None
PM200 Printmaking Workshop 2. (3 credits)
This course is designed for students who want to continue developing work in one or more of the techniques learned in prior semesters in printmaking. A proposal of intent is required. Work is reviewed weekly with emphasis on content, research of ideas and possibilities.
Prerequisite: PM100 or PM105
PM210 Printmaking Workshop 3. (3 credits)
Continuation of PM200.
Prerequisite: PM200
PM230 Monoprint/Monotype. (3 credits)
This course is a study of the history and process of creating one-of-a-kind impressions using different methods of applying ink to a plate. Half of the semester is devoted to monotypes and the other half monoprints, using another printmaking process selected by the student considering prior knowledge (i.e. intaglio, serigraphy, relief, or lithography). Application of monotype and monoprints using chine colle, letterpress, watercolor, and handmade paper among others is discussed and incorporated.
Prerequisite: PM100 or PM105
PM300 Printmaking Workshop 4. (3 credits)
Continuation of PM210.
Prerequisite: PM210
PM400 Printmaking Workshop 5. (3 credits)
Students are required to write a proposal discussing the projects, techniques and content of the work to be developed during the semester. Larger scale works and the inclusion of experiences from other areas (i.e. papermaking, book arts and letterpress) are discussed and encouraged. A term paper on a professional printmaker is required. The student works independently with weekly meetings to discuss progress, contemporary issues in printmaking, and professional development.
Prerequisite: 15 additional printmaking credits covering 3 different techniques
PP150 Papermaking 1. (3 credits)
This course is an introduction to hand papermaking in the Western tradition.
Students learn various sheet formation techniques, as well as the design
and use of a watermark image, pulp painting, embedding, and embossing. Hand
papermaking skills are emphasized along with their application to the development
of personal themes in each student's work.
Prerequisite: None
PP170 Book Arts 1. (3 credits)
This course is an introduction to bookbinding providing students with an intense conceptual and technical experience. Projects focus on competence in skill and craft, as well as the successful integration of ideas, materials, and techniques. Students learn to use the book as a vessel for artistic expression. Various areas of bookbinding, printmaking, and alternative photo/image transfer process are covered. Computer skills and knowledge are helpful.
Prerequisite: FD120
PP250 Papermaking Workshop 2. (3 credits)
Students learn hand papermaking techniques for creating three-dimensional works of art, as well as using handmade paper with other media to extend creative possibilities. A strong personal focus in the handmade paper arts is developed, making possible the execution of contemporary ideas through this medium. Pulp casting, relief sheet casting, mold making and vacuum table techniques are explored.
Prerequisite: PP150
PP270 Book Arts 2. (3 credits)
This course presents students with the opportunity to explore a variety of advanced and alternative structures and bindings. Emphasis is on individual project work and the successful integration of printed image and text. Letterpress printing techniques are explored and incorporated into specific projects.
Prerequisite: PP150, PP170
PP350 Papermaking Workshop 3. (3 credits)
Continuation of PP250.
Prerequisite: PP250
PP370 Book Arts 3. (3 credits)
Continuation of PP270.
Prerequisite: PP270
PP450 Papermaking Workshop 4. (3 credits)
Advanced students develop individual projects utilizing advanced papermaking techniques. Three-dimensional works, as well as installation-based works incorporating other medium are encouraged. Focus is placed on developing and creating a cohesive body of work.
Prerequisite: PP350
PP455 Papermaking Workshop 5. (3 credits)
Continuation of PP450.
Prerequisite: PP450
PP470 Integration: Book & Paper. (3 credits)
This is a senior level course designed to engage the student in an intense conversation with print, paper and book. Students spend half of the semester compiling research, documentation and examples of artistic experimentation in the areas of letterpress, papermaking and printmaking in order to propose and develop projects to be editioned. Collaboration with other media not mentioned is encouraged as well.
Prerequisite: PP370, Senior standing
PT110 Painting 1. (3 credits)
The materials and techniques of painting and the study of contemporary and historical painters are covered in this introductory course.
Prerequisite: None
PT111 Painting 1t. (3 credits)
This course is specifically designated for transfer students who need to repeat PT110 to be better prepared for subsequent painting coursework at MCA.
Prerequisite: None
PT120 Painting 2. (3 credits)
Painting 2 continues the development started in Painting 1 with a greater emphasis on color and paint handling.
Prerequisite: PT110
PT121 Painting 2t. (3 credits)
This course is specifically designated for transfer students who need to repeat PT120 to be better prepared for subsequent painting coursework at MCA.
Prerequisite: PT110
PT210 Painting 3. (3 credits)
Mixed media, concepts, and thematic development are addressed along with contemporary issues in painting in this course.
Prerequisites: PT120
PT221 Collage. (3 credits)
Found materials are used to explore problems in composition, concepts and self-expression.
Prerequisite: FD110, PT120
PT310 Painting 4. (3 credits)
Thematic development and individual problems are addressed through the subjects of figure and abstract painting.
Prerequisites: PT210, DW200
SC100 Sculpture 1. (3 credits)
This technical processes class for majors and non-majors introduces students to mold making theory and practice, basic materials, fabrication theory and practice as well as appropriate tool choice and use in each area. A basic understanding of joining methods is expected at the end of the semester. While focusing on skills building, exploration of materials in mold-making, casting, and fabrication is encouraged.
Prerequisite: None
SC120 Ceramic Sculpture 1. (3 credits)
This class introduces students to ceramic building techniques for the production of sculptural forms. Additive and subtractive methods are covered and used separately, and in combination depending on assignment and concept. Different surface finishes are also explored as students gain a basic understanding of clay, glaze, and firing principles. As the semester progresses and technical proficiencies strengthen, the content becomes the driving force of the majority of assignments.
Prerequisite: None
SC150 Metalsmithing 1. (3 credits)
This is an introduction to the materials, tooling and processes involved in the creation of small sculptural units, body ornamentation and utilitarian objects. Processes experienced include lost wax casting, metal forming, surfacing and finishing options.
Prerequisite: None
SC170 Surface Design 1. (3 credits)
In this introductory course students become familiar with fiber art through various surface design processes including resist dyeing, direct painting with dyes, hand embroidery, sewing and others. Students are encouraged to develop their knowledge of techniques and their ability to use surface design to carry out concepts and ideas.
Prerequisite: None
SC200 Sculpture 2. (3 credits)
This course is a continuation of the technical exploration of SC100. Examination of materials, forming methods and ideas is supported with personal research focusing on contemporary approaches to sculptural ideas. Single object/idea development is stressed.
Prerequisite: SC100
SC220 Ceramic Sculpture 2. (3 credits)
This class utilizes the building and surface finish skills obtained in Introduction to Ceramic Sculpture in conjunction with articulation and demonstration of content through writing. Students investigate concepts, materials, and techniques that inform and support the topic of their choosing. Work produced during the semester should demonstrate technical and conceptual control and specificity to build a cohesive body of work. Firing and glazing is further explored through direct experimentation according to individual technical and conceptual needs.
Prerequisite: SC120
SC250 Metalsmithing 2. (3 credits)
Course emphasis is on personal direction and expansion of process awareness. After an initial concept and process directed problem the student is responsible for a self-directed project. The goal of the project is for the student to advance their concept level, metalsmithing skills and awareness of the area. Processes experienced include advanced metal forming, respousse, chasing, tool making, joining and finishing.
Prerequisite: SC150
SC270 Surface Design 2. (3 credits)
This is a sequential course of study with four prerequisite intermediate levels leading to the advanced level. The technical vocabulary taught includes silkscreen, machine embroidery, garment construction, computer printing and others. Courses concentrate on furthering students' abilities to integrate material, process, form and content through fiber art.
Prerequisite: SC170
SC300 Sculpture 3. (3 credits)
Students develop a multiple object language based on research of a personal interest. Personal histories and narratives form the basis of research leading to the production of multi-object sculpture. Student directed research and presentation form the basis for the development and production of mixed media installation projects.
Prerequisite: SC200
SC320 Ceramic Sculpture 3. (3 credits)
Continuation of SC220.
Prerequisite: SC220
SC350 Metalsmithing 3. (3 credits)
Continuation of SC250.
Prerequisite: SC250
SC370 Surface Design 3. (3 credits)
Continuation of SC270.
Prerequisite: SC270
SC400 Sculpture 4. (3 credits)
In this idea oriented class, personal communication and expression are explored through proposal-based projects, including preparation for the senior exhibition, and photo documentation of the senior portfolio.
Prerequisite: SC300
SC405 Sculpture 5. (3 credits)
Continuation of SC400.
Prerequisite: SC400
SC420 Ceramic Sculpture 4. (3 credits)
Students are guided through their own investigation of concepts, materials and techniques. Emphasis is on research and individual artistic development. Students are required to set up a semester problem of their own choosing.
Prerequisite: SC320
SC425 Ceramic Sculpture 5. (3 credits)
Continuation of SC420.
Prerequisite: SC350
SC450 Metalsmithing 4. (3 credits)
Continuation of SC350.
Prerequisite: SC350
SC455 Metalsmithing 5. (3 credits)
Continuation of SC450.
Prerequisite: SC450
SC470 Surface Design 4. (3 credits)
Continuation of SC370.
Prerequisite: SC370
AH100 Art History Survey 1. (3 credits)
This course is a chronological study of Western art from prehistory through the Middle Ages, providing an understanding of movements, time periods, and individual artists. A discussion of non-Western traditions may be included.
AH150 Art History Survey 2. (3 credits)
This course is a chronological study of Western art from the Renaissance to the present, including influential trends toward Modernism in the twentieth century. A discussion of non-Western traditions may be included.
AH100 and AH150 are prerequisites for all Art History courses at the 200 level or above.
AH227 Modern Art: 1900-1945. (3 credits)
This course is an introduction to the major movements and artists of the twentieth century primarily European prior to World War II. Emphasis is on the fundamental tenets of Modernist art and the various manifestations of the Modernist avant-garde.
AH230 Art Since 1945. (3 credits)
Global art and theory from World War II to the present is examined. Topics include Abstract Expressionism, Pop, Minimalism, Land Art, Conceptual Art, Body and Performance Art, and Postmodernism.
AH231 Modern Architecture 1. (3 credits)
Trends and styles in Europe and the U.S. from Jefferson to World War II are explored, including Art Nouveau, the skyscraper, Wright, California modern, the Bauhaus, and Art Deco. Video and site visits may be offered.
AH310 History of Film 1. (3 credits)
Film as an art form is explored through a number of possible avenues. This exploration may take a historical and developmental approach, or concentrate on particular writers, directors, genres, motifs and countries. Readings accompany each film and serve as a basis for discussion.
AH326 History of Photography. (3 credits)
A topically arranged survey of world photography, this course takes as its central concern the multiple purposes to which photography has been adapted since its discovery in the early nineteenth century. Although the relationship between photography and fine art is considered, the many non-art uses of the medium are also discussed in an attempt to better understand the cultural contexts in which photography has been employed.
AH450 Living in a Material World. (3 credits)
This seminar is an introduction to the art history methodology of material culture. Simply put, the study of material culture is the study of things e or human-modified products. These things can include clothing, your grandmother's heirloom jewelry, a formally landscaped garden, a painting, or the contents of a trashcan. Scholars of material culture investigate these cultural products as a way to uncover the beliefs, values, attitudes, needs, hopes and fears of a particular society at a particular moment. In this class we will look at art (early American portraiture; southern plantation architecture; hand-built wooden furniture), luxury goods (Marie Antoinette's clothing; silver teapots), consumer goods (Tupperware; table forks), and popular imagery (photographs of President Kennedy; the interior decor of Graceland) through the material culture lens. This course will require weekly readings, class discussion, and a substantial research paper.
Prerequisites: AH100, AH150, and one additional art history course or P.O.I.
HU090 Grammar and Composition. (3 credits)
In this course, readings, exercises, and writing assignments are designed to build proficiency in grammatical, mechanical, and organizational principles of college-level writing. This course does not count toward the 120 hours required for graduation.
HU101 Writing 1. (3 credits)
The critical reading and writing skills required for college-level work are introduced. Writing assignments move from the personal essay to critical analysis, with emphasis upon thesis, support, organization, standard English grammar, and style.
Prerequisite: Successful completion of HU090, ACT English sub-score of at least 19, or SAT verbal score of at least 460.
HU102 Writing 2. (3 credits)
Writing 1 skills are refined leading to proficiency in critical thinking and argument and includes practice in quoting, summarizing, paraphrasing, and synthesizing information using both MLA and Chicago documentation styles. The coursework culminates in a documented research paper.
HU101 and HU102 are prerequisites for all Liberal Studies courses (prefix AH, HU, SS, MA or NS) at the 200 level or above.
HU205 Elementary Logic. (3 credits)
Basic principles of reasoning assist students in organizing and developing fundamental concepts of logic and information processing. The formulation and assessment of one's own ideas are facilitated through examples and illustrations.
This course fulfills the math requirement.
HU215 Literature Survey. (3 credits)
This course is an overview of literary works in their cultural and historical context, drawn from a variety of genres. Written assignments demand critical thinking skills and literary analysis.
HU220 Humanities: Special Topics American History.
This course examines the economic, political, geographical and social background of life in the United States from the Civil War/Reconstruction era to present times. Emphasis will be placed upon vital intellectual, cultural, political, and social movements that have shaped and continue to impact the current American scene. In addition to a general course textbook, primary documents will also be examined in order to expose students to firsthand historical sources of American history.
HU221 Humanities: Special Topics Oral Communication. (3 credits)
Basic Oral Communication introduces students to the principles and theories of effective public and small group communication as well as interpersonal and intrapersonal communication. The course explores the demands on, and effects of, communicating in the 21st century and will briefly explore ideas specific to the professional art world. The students' own artwork and artist statements will be used as subject material for their final projects.
HU240 Creative Writing: Fiction. (3 credits)
Fiction writing is explored as an art form. Working in a variety of fiction genres and styles, students develop strategies for effective communication and expression.
HU241 Creative Writing: Poetry. (3 credits)
This writing intensive course is an introduction to poetics and to poetic language; to the arts of close reading and generative writing of poetry with an emphasis on (and questioning of) constructions of meaning.
HU387 Forms of Fiction: Horror. (3 credits)
This course traces the evolution of the modern horror novel from its roots in the Gothic and examines its enduring popularity. The reading list will consist primarily of novels, but some short stories will also be included.
SS226 Introduction to Psychology. (3 credits)
The discipline of psychology as a science of behavior is introduced. Areas of study include biological aspects of psychology, learning, sensation, perception, personality, abnormal behavior, and social and developmental psychology.
SS275 Cultural Anthropology. (3 credits)
The origin and development of human culture through social relations, language, government, religion, and ritual are studied, as well as problems relating to developing nations and minority groups in the modern world.
SS330 Abnormal Psychology. (3 credits)
Mental disorders are surveyed, including their causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment. Emphasis on anxiety disorders, sexual disorders, dissociative disorders, personality disorders, cognitive disorders, mood disorders, and schizophrenia.
SS375 Anthropology of Art. (3 credits)
Art is approached from an anthropological perspective in order to explain its function, diversity and cultural implications.
MA165 College Mathematics. (3 credits)
This course explores why basic mathematics operations work as they do, as well as how these operations are performed. Topics include operations with whole numbers, fractions, signed numbers, decimals, percents, ratio and proportion, powers and roots, systems of measurement, and elementary and coordinate geometry.
GS601 MFA Seminar 1. (1 credit)
The MFA seminar brings together graduate students at a shared time and place.
The course functions to address relevant concerns as it helps to build a
common ground and develop a graduate community. Although the seminar is divided
into first and second-year groups, at times all graduate students meet together.
This course may include trips to galleries or museums, visiting artist critiques,
group critiques, visits by arts professionals, videos, slides, readings,
and discussions. It also serves as a place to develop or workshop written
materials, such as the artist's statement and thesis, in conjunction with
input from other faculty, as well as the artist's packet.
Enrollment is required in each semester a grad student is involved in any studio coursework.
GS602 MFA Seminar 2. (1 credit)
Continuation of GS601.
GS701 MFA Seminar 3. (1 credit)
Continuation of GS602.
GS702 MFA Seminar 4. (1 credit)
Continuation of GS701.
GS651 Studio Workshop. (8 credits)
Independent studio work is supported by the study of advanced techniques under the supervision of a group of artists/mentors. This workshop focuses on personal development, exploring concepts that begin with thesis preparation and individual research and experimentation in the various fine arts areas. Students are expected to define and evolve a significant body of work as a personal form of expression. Offered every semester.
GS652 Studio Workshop. (8 credits)
Continuation of GS651. Independent studio work.
GS751 Studio Workshop. (8 credits)
Continuation of GS652. Independent studio work.
GS752 Studio Workshop. (8 credits)
In this workshop, independent studio work results in the completion of a thesis statement and graduate body of work for exhibition that is arranged with the Director of MFA Programs.
HU600 History of Aesthetics. (3 credits)
The philosophy of art from the Greeks to the modern period is examined in this seminar. The Western philosophical tradition's changing treatment of the artist and the work of art is the focus of analysis and discussion. The metaphysical status of art, theories of expression and representation and the social value of the artist are some of the topics examined through the readings.
HU613 Cultural/Visual Studies. (3 credits)
Introductory survey of foundational cultural studies theories and methodologies since 1965. Course will apply theories to various texts (literary, cinematic, visual, musical) so that students move beyond abstractions and toward praxis. Short essays punctuate discussions and comprise final grade.
AE610 Survey of Art Education. (3 credits)
This course provides a survey of history, philosophy, theories, psychology and research in the field of art education and how these impact art education in the public forums of schools, museums and community organizations.
AE650 Art Education for Diverse Populations. (3 credits)
Methods and strategies for adapting art lessons and curriculum for students from multicultural backgrounds and students with special needs (including gifted and SPED) are reviewed.
AE660 Educational Psychology. (3 credits)
The course provides a study of human development and psychology, including theories of cognition, social learning, information processing, motivation and strategies to engage students in critical and creative thinking and problem solving as they apply to the teaching and learning processes, especially relating to art education. The use of formats and language in designing and the writing of lesson plans, unit plans, and course outlines are discussed.
AE750 Art Education Thesis. (2 credits)
The MA Thesis is a unified, comprehensive body of work produced during the course of graduate study that encompasses either research or problem solving and must be completed during the final semester. There are two components to the course of study. One is the Thesis paper or Action Research Project. The Thesis Paper utilizing the APA Manual describes and clarifies the student's work in the context of art and art education, including philosophy, methods, media, sources and influences. The second component is the exhibition of creative work. Either chosen path for this course is guided through a weekly seminar.
AE751 Thesis Seminar. (1 credit)
This seminar provides guidance toward the development of the student's MA Thesis.