Courses Courses

Digital II- Intermedia

Course No. FNDN 121  Credits: 3.0

Intermedia is a course that introduces foundational digital applications and methods. Focus will be on integration of media into drawing, design, sculpture, expanded media and sound. Overarching themes will include visual culture viewed through the lens of digital media. Course structure consists of introductory concept lectures, technical instruction, lab time with guidance and group critique of finished assignments.

Digital II- Modeling & Fabrication

Course No. FNDN 121  Credits: 3.0

Modeling & Fabrication is a course that introduces foundational digital 3D applications and methods. Focus will be on 3D output including digital options and physical options. Various methods covered will include using CNC, laser cutters, casting/mold making, 3D printing, VR/AR, and Computer Graphics. Course structure consists of introductory concept lectures, technical instruction, lab time with guidance and group critique of finished assignments.

Observational Drawing

Course No. FNDN 130  Credits: 3.0

The primary goals of Observational Drawing focus on core drawing concepts; basic methods, tools and materials; and an introduction into the language of mark making. Composition and visual analysis are emphasized through drawing from observation, including perspective theories as they relate to objects and environments, and a basic introduction to the figure. Students utilize observational information to develop a broad range of manual and perceptual skills and to develop an ability to translate the three-dimensional world into two dimensions. Students are challenged to develop a strong drawing practice through in-class work, out of class assignments, and ongoing sketchbooks. 3 credits.

Life Drawing

Course No. FNDN 131  Credits: 3.0

Life Drawing continues to build on basic drawing concepts, methods, and materials that were introduced in the previous semester. Emphasis for Life Drawing is on the human figure, with observational drawing from the live model in the classroom, and weekly out-of-class drawing assignments which explore various figurative and perspective concepts. Special attention is given to visual analysis, composition, and expression through drawing from observation, including perspective theories as they relate to objects and environments. The language of mark making is also introduced in a range of wet and dry drawing media and includes an introduction to the use of color in drawing. Students develop a personal and process-based approach to drawing through the use of sketchbooks. Students are challenged to incorporate sketches and research into resolved drawings; to think critically regarding the content and process of drawing; to develop confidence when experimenting with new media; and to develop vocabulary in order to be an active, informed participant in class discussions and critiques. Prerequisite: FNDN 130. 3 credits.

Studio Discovery

Course No. FNDN 150  Credits: 3.0

Studio Discovery is an opportunity to explore, discover interests, recognize personal inclinations, and learn about the wide range of options for careers in art and design. This course is integrated into the foundation year and offers exposure to studio subjects, mediums, faculty and facilities of three or more majors. Students are encouraged to select topics based on interest and explore areas outside of their major with the ultimate goal of informing, affirming and self-reflecting through the process of discovery. 3 credits.

Intro Game Design

Course No. GAME 215  Credits: 3.0

Introduction to Game Design takes students on an exploration of Gaming Theory and its practice through the development of physical games. Investigation includes game metaphor, story, game mechanics, and chance factors. Students will also analyze games and gameplay including the aesthetics of games and the design of their instructions. In this project based course students will produce fully implemented board games and card games. 3 credits.

Introduction to Video Games

Course No. GAME 216  Credits: 3.0

Game design allows artists to create meaningful play and interactive experiences. This introductory course explores games through the development and creation of 2D video games. The course aims to provide a critical vocabulary and historical context for analyzing games and gaming theory and focuses on the skills and techniques necessary to incorporate game design into an ongoing art practice. 3 credits.

Serious Game Design: Theory + Application

Course No. GAME 308â€"408  Credits: 3.0

This course introduces the fundamentals of serious or educational game development. The course materials and projects will help students understand how and why games can be used for learning in the fields of health, medicine, science and games for social change. The course exposes students to examples of the current work and research in game design mechanics, game learning mechanics and assessment mechanics; which are integral to development of successful educational games. Students will be exposed to industry-specific serious games (games for learning, corporate training, news games, games for health, science, exer-games, military games, and games for social change.) These examples, along with specific lecture topics and materials, will allow the student to understand how to develop their own serious game projects by learning specific research methods for understanding content, players and engagement strategies. 3 credits.