Digital Media

This course focuses on modeling and rendering in a 3-D realm. The software employed is Autodesks Maya. Modeling strategies draw from the premise that good curves make good surfaces, and begin with a thorough examination of an objects profile curves and how to build on them. Prerequisite: DIGI 1250

This course trains students in basic techniques of storyboard animatics and motion graphics creation through the use of software programs utilized by design and animation companies worldwide. The emphasis is on design from a problem-solving point of view. The course also examines the production timeline and graphical requirements of a multimedia project by demonstrating the manipulation of digital images in a studio environment. Upon completion of this course, students will have gained a thorough understanding of input/output techniques, special effects, image compositing, and motion graphics. Prerequisite: DIGI 1100

This advanced motion graphics course builds on concepts learned in the foundational course and employs those concepts in conjunction with advanced techniques. In this course, students gain a thorough understanding of advanced techniques as they are applied in the continuing exploration of special effects, image compositing, and motion graphics. Prerequisite: DIGI 1550A

This course builds upon the modeling, texturing, and lighting skills learned in the Foundations and Model Creation courses, and takes those techniques further by applying that knowledge to 3-D characters. Students begin with preproduction of a character, developing concept art and character sheets. Students complete a fully textured 3-D model for possible use in film or high-resolution game technology. Prerequisites: DIGI 1250; DIGI 1450

This course introduces students to the fundamentals of digital photography, including camera mechanics, particularly pertaining to digital media. Students learn framing and composition techniques and display mastery of those techniques through hands-on application in multiple projects. Students shoot and present their work in various delivery platforms. The course reinforces design concepts applicable to all media.

This course leads the student through the methods and techniques of creating personalized digital content using the Apple iLife Suite. Students utilize this powerful suite of tools to create many projects with an emphasis on personal expression, including Podcasts, movies and websites. The design concepts reinforced in this course are applicable across all types of media. Prerequisites: DIGI 1100, DIGI 1650

This course examines the process of creating functional, industry-standard-based content for the Internet. Students learn to design and create websites using XML, eXtensible HyperText Markup Language (XHTML), and other standards. This course also focuses on searchability and other elements of effective web design, with a focus on using XHTML to ensure that web page markup is compact and easily understood.

This course broadens the base of students knowledge by offering insight into the process of combining computer-generated imagery (CGI) with video and film elements. By learning what happens when rendered imagery is integrated into the postproduction process, students better understand the core principles of proper compositing and finishing practices. Students are introduced to the fundamentals of node-based compositing, camera tracking and rotoscoping methods utilized in current postproduction pipelines.

This course covers the art and science of non-linear editing. Students learn the importance of editing choices and the impact those choices have on how a project is perceived and its ultimate success. Students are introduced to the advanced concepts of imaging and editing, as well as to the production model of editing video in the industry. Students also participate in group discussions about editing choices and audience demographics.

This course explores the digital audio workstation environment through an extensive study of digital audio concepts and practices. Students receive detailed instruction and hands-on experience with cutting-edge, computer-based recording systems typically found in the recording industry.

This course explores the theory and operation of field audio for film and video production. Students utilize field recorders in various locations in order to gain expertise in the art of sound design. This course also examines the fundamentals of various recording techniques through midi. Prerequisite: DIGI 2350A

This course furthers the students knowledge in Pro Tools and its application in the post-production field for editing, sound-designing, and synchronizing audio (sound effects, music, and dialogue) to visual media. Prerequisites: DIGI 2350A, DIGI 2350B

In this production-based course, students use various cameras and learn techniques required for creating digital visual effects. Starting with basic camera principles and setups, students explore the details of producing, budgeting, directing, camera operation, production sound, and lighting.

This course examines the process of designing and creating animated content for delivery on the Internet. Students develop an in-depth understanding of Adobes Flash software and the techniques employed in effective development of 2-D design and animation. In addition to learning about delivery of web-accessible animation, this course contributes to the students overall knowledge of the animation process. Topics and techniques include storyboards, design, and animation. Students also learn to simulate real life motion using animation techniques.

This course examines advanced non-linear editing techniques, video formats, engineering, digital video effects, and compositing using multiple platforms. Students study editing theory, editing software, basic engineering for postproduction, digital video effects, compositing, color correction, and edit lists.

This is an advanced class in portfolio development. Students design, produce, and gain experience presenting their work in a professional working environment. They also write a comprehensive resume and present their portfolios before the class.

This course draws upon the skills developed during the Web Design and Flash Animation courses. Students conceive, design, and create a complete website to showcase all of their digital content developed during the Digital Media Program.

A survey course which explores film in America as an art form and charts its historical and technical developments. Students explore the social implications of films and view and analyze film technique, costume design, and set decoration. Contemporary and classic films and filmmakers are studied.

This course is an introductory survey of the art and artists influencing and informing the international visual arts of the late modern and contemporary periods. Beginning with Post-War Expressionism and Pop Art, the course covers the diverse movements of the late 20th century, including Feminist art, Minimalism, and Conceptual art. Students examine the art and architecture of the postmodern, post-pop environment of today, paying special attention to new media and modes of expression such as video, installation, and performance art. Students investigate the intersections of fine art and popular culture as well as explore unique voices from the margins that inform visual culture today.