Total Credit Hours - 180

Students pursuing the Bachelor of Science in Media Arts & Animation are required to take a total of 55 courses as follows:

• 38 core courses
• 2 track electives
• 8 required general education courses
• 7 general education electives

Core Curriculum 114 cr.

Students are required to take 38 core courses as follows:

C123 - Life Drawing for Animation

In this course students will continue to develop the use of basic understructure for animation. Proportion will be stressed as well as the refinement of body joints, hands, feet and head.

Prerequisite(s): C131

Credits: 3

C124 - Character and Object Design for Animation

In this course, students will design and draw original characters or objects appropriate to and for the animation and/or the gaming industries. Students will learn proper proportion and production protocol to generate pipeline ready model sheets. Course assignments include gesture drawings, action poses and turnarounds.

Prerequisite(s): None

Credits: 3

C125 - Cinematic Storytelling

In this course students explore storytelling & visual literacy.  Through exercises & experiments, stories cinematically & sonically come to life. Projects utilize foundational skills for effective sequential & pictorial creativity.  The course examines the necessary integration of strong storytelling in all areas of their program of study.  

Prerequisite(s): C132

Credits: 3

C131 - Drawing and Anatomies

In this course, students will focus on rendering the human figure as well as animals. Traditional methods of figure drawing will be used and students will learn the basics of understructure for animation using line and shape for maintaining volume.

Prerequisite(s): FND110

Credits: 3

C132 - Survey of Animation

This course is an historical survey of traditional animation. Students learn to identify various types of animation. The illusion of artistic animation is analyzed and executed through exercises. This course also involves discussions of new developments and future trends in the industry, analysis of major sectors of the industry and the career opportunities within them.

Prerequisite(s): None

Credits: 3

C210 - 2D Animation

Students will continue to develop skills involving the principles of animation, character development, key drawings and timing charts. The main focus will be on combining shots to understand screen direction and further studies of locomotion.

Prerequisite(s): C234

Credits: 3

C211 - Storyboard Rendering for Animation

This course explores design graphics for effective animated sequences through the development of storyboards. Students will utilize design, drawing and rendering skills, as well as problem-solving creativity.

Prerequisite(s):
C321 or GAD131

Credits: 3

C212 - Computer 3D Modeling and Animation I

A study of 3D modeling techniques using a computerized environment. Students will create their own models to which they will apply effective lighting and materials.

Prerequisite(s): FND133

Credits: 3

C213 - Advanced Life Drawing for Animation

In this course students will continue to develop the figure by using the basic understructure for animation. Rotation of poses, simple motion studies, sense of weight, gesture studies, action line, and the use of light and shadows will be incorporated in the development of the figure studies.

Prerequisite(s): C123

Credits: 3

C220 - Intermediate 2D Animation

An introduction to the development of personality and emotion in animated characters is explored. Students will produce an animation of a character expressing emotions and also will work with multiple characters to increase the level of complexity.

Prerequisite(s):
C210 or GAD132

Credits: 3

C221 - Digital Editing - Video, Audio

This course explores the features and functions of digital editing systems and their use to manipulate video and audio. The student will use both linear and non-linear editing systems to output to videotape.

Prerequisite(s): FND133

Credits: 3

C222 - Computer 3D Modeling and Animation II

Students will continue their application of 3-D modeling techniques within a computer animation environment. Students will then create models to which animation is applied.

Prerequisite(s): C212

Credits: 3

C223 - Camera and Lighting Techniques

This course explores the various camera and lighting techniques as applied to computer animation. Discussion will cover the general concepts and principles of camera moves and lighting in computer animation. Focus will be placed on applying camera and lighting techniques to computer generated animation.

Prerequisite(s): C212

Credits: 3

C230 - Advanced 2D Animation

In this course, building on the study of personality and emotion in character animation, students are responsible for organizing the elements required to finish an animated short.

Prerequisite(s): C220

Credits: 3

C231 - Introduction to Digital Compositing

This course is an introduction to the terminology and methods involved with digital compositing.

Prerequisite(s): C221 C222

Credits: 3

C232 - Computer 3D Modeling and Animation III

A study of 3D animation techniques using a computerized environment. Students will create their own 3D models and animate them in different situations.

Prerequisite(s): C222

Credits: 3

C234 - Principles of Animation

This course is a practical survey covering the principles of animation. Animation exercises are explored and students learn to use a capture system to study and analyze the flow of movement.

Prerequisite(s): C124 C132

Credits: 3

C240 - Creative and Collaborative Project Management Techniques

In this course students focus on teamwork as they are exposed to production disciplines through project-based learning.  students plan all aspects of a production pipeline for a client, solving real world problems creatively. 

Prerequisite(s): C211

Credits: 3

C312 - Computer 3D Workshop

A study of 3-D animation techniques using a computerized environment. Students will create their own 3-D models and animate them in different situations.

Prerequisite(s): C325 C333

Credits: 3

C313 - Digital Compositing

This course explores the terminology and methods involved with digital compositing.

Prerequisite(s): C231

Credits: 3

C321 - Acting/Movement

This course will introduce the student to the perception and rendition of movement in animation through references in the real world. The student will learn to observe & reproduce movement, human or otherwise, in a convincing manner and will transcribe those notions to the 3-D and 2-D environment.

Prerequisite(s): C122 or C123

Credits: 3

C322 - 3D Character Animation

This course will introduce the student to the refinement of characterization for the purpose of animation. The articulation, personality, and expressions of a character will be studied and experimented with in depth. Previous notions from 2D and 3D classes will be reiterated and applied.

Prerequisite(s): C325 C333

Credits: 3

C325 - Advanced 3D Modeling

Students will continue their application of 3D modeling techniques within a computer animation environment. Students will then create a complex character, texture it, and prepare it so that animation can be applied.

Prerequisite(s): C232

Credits: 3

C330 - Pre-Production Team

This course will expose students to the production disciplines used in the animation and related industries. The primary components of the course will be a thorough review of all pre-production activities and project management. Students will participate in production teams and will focus on planning all aspects of an animation production. They will work as an actual functioning production team for actual in-house projects for non-profit organizations.

Prerequisite(s): C230 C313 C333 C412

Credits: 3

C332 - Advanced Software

A lecture and workshop course in which the student will apply information from the lectures and texts to complete projects involving 3-D modeling, surfacing, lighting, animating and rendering using a high end 3-D modeling and animation software.

Prerequisite(s):
C232 or GAD223

Credits: 3

C333 - Advanced 3D Textures

Building on what was previously taught, students will learn techniques to be used to create complex realistic textures and maps for use of 3D models.

Prerequisite(s): C232

Credits: 3

C334 - Web Animation

This is an introductory course in animation for the Web. The students will explore the creation of animation using current industry standard vector and raster based software for producing animation to be used on the Internet and similar content formats.

Prerequisite(s): C220 C310

Credits: 3

C410 - Production Team

This course will be a continuation of the pre-production course and is designed to strengthen students in the disciplines of production used in the animation and related industries. The primary components of the course will be a thorough review of all animation concepts as well as concept management. Students will continue to work in production teams and will focus on completing all aspects of the animation begun in the pre-production course.

Prerequisite(s): C330

Credits: 3

C412 - Advanced Software II

A workshop course in which the student will apply information from the lectures, texts, and lab assignments to animate and render projects and reach the required competencies for certification.

Prerequisite(s): C332

Credits: 3

C424 - Pre-Portfolio Presentation for Animation

A class concentrated on the pre-production and production of a demo tape and a flat-work portfolio that represents the student's abilities and interests.

Prerequisite(s): 160 credits successfully completed in the Media Arts and Animation program

Credits: 4

C430 - Portfolio Presentation for Animation

A class concentrated on the production of a demo tape that represents the students' abilities and interests.

Prerequisite(s): C424

Credits: 4

C433 - Advanced Modeling/Animation Topics

This laboratory class allows students to explore and/or expand their knowledge in the areas of modeling and/or animation. Students will choose projects, complete them, and present their results to their fellow peers.

Prerequisite(s): 165 credits successfully completed in the Media Arts and Animation program

Credits: 3

FND110 - Drawing

This is a fundamental drawing course in which students will explore various art and media, use a variety of drawing tools, draw 3-dimensional objects in one and two-point perspective and generate drawings that demonstrate correct proportions.

Prerequisite(s): None

Credits: 3

FND111 - Color Theory

This fundamental course provides an introduction to the principles of color and an exploration of color theory as it relates to design and form. The psychological and cultural aspects of color will be examined in making appropriate design decisions. This course is equivalent to FND115

Prerequisite(s): None

Credits: 3

FND112 - Fundamentals of Design

This course will explore the basic principles of design and introduce the creative process. Design elements and relationships will be identified and employed to establish a basis for critical analysis. Design will be presented as a tool of communication.

Prerequisite(s): None

Credits: 3

FND113 - Perspective

This is a foundation course in basic drawing. Students learn to draw three-dimensional forms through observation and application and perspective principles.

Prerequisite(s): None

Credits: 3

FND120 - Visual Indication

This course will explore various means of indicating visual elements in design. Using traditional media, the ability to effectively indicate photographs, illustrations and other images will be developed.

Prerequisite(s): FND111

Credits: 3

FND133 - Digital Image Manipulation

This course is designed to explore photo retouching, image manipulation and the creation of original artwork using computers and appropriate software. Compositing, color adjustment and effects through the use of filters will be stressed.

Prerequisite(s):
CPU100 or equivalent

Credits: 3

General Track 6 cr.

Students in the General Track are required to take 2 core elective courses from the list below:

C314 - 2D Digital Animation

This course is an introduction to the 2D digital animation production. process The student will apply their traditional animation skills using a 2D animation software package. Students will create a fully colored and rendered animation.

Prerequisite(s): C220 C334

Credits: 3

C411 - Introduction to Games

This course explores the development and production of a computer game. Discussion will cover the task of designing a game for specific platforms such as a home PC. Focus will be placed on creating and executing designs within strict technological and financial restrictions.

Prerequisite(s): C232

Credits: 3

C421 - Games

This course explores the techniques used in the production of a computer game. Discussion will cover the techniques used in the production of computer graphics for use in platform or PC games. Focus will be placed on creating models and interfaces with limited polygons and low-resolution texture maps.

Prerequisite(s): C411

Credits: 4

C422 - Advanced Software III

A production course in which the student utilizes the information learned in the previous two courses to produce portfolio pieces under the supervision and guidance of the instructor.

Prerequisite(s): C412

Credits: 3

C444 - Advanced Software IV

This course will further develop the student's digital animation skills by integrating advanced computer generated effects and simulations such as: Particles, Dynamics, Cloth, Hair, and Fur.

Prerequisite(s): C422

Credits: 3

C445 - Digital Sculpting and Texturing

A study of sculpture inside the computer. Students will create their own 3D sculptures and texture them using multiple construction techniques.

Prerequisite(s): C232

Credits: 3

CAT405 - Production Techniques

An introduction to production techniques and concepts.

Prerequisite(s): C230

Credits: 3

CAT406 - Filmmaking for Animation

In this class students will learn the basic techniques used in aquiring motion video footage for use in creating a short video presentation. Form, composition, camera setups, and shots will be discussed as well as basic lighting schemes and recording audio for video on location. The students will create a short video presentation as a final project.

Prerequisite(s): None

Credits: 3

CAT415 - Advanced Animation Principles

A course dedicated to tackling some fx animation as well as multiple character scenes and their complex timings.

Prerequisite(s): C230

Credits: 3

CAT416 - Advanced Digital Compositing

This course will expose students to the disciplines used in finalizing a composited project utilizing various software. The class will reinforce compositing concepts and techniques that students have learned in previous classes. Each student will produce a final, edited project that combines live-action, stills, CG imagery, and/or stop-motion puppets and miniatures.

Prerequisite(s): C313

Credits: 3

CC420 - Internship

Through a field internship experience, students will be able to apply acquired subject matter and career/professional skills in a real and practical situation. The main objectives of the internship are to allow students the opportunity to observe and participate in the operation of successful business in relation to their fields of study. The students will gain experience needed to enter the field upon graduation.

Prerequisite(s): Successful completion of at least 75 credits in their discipline with a 2.75 or higher CGPA

Credits: 3

CC478 - Special Projects

This class is designed to emulate a real world environment by combining the skills of students from more than one curriculum. One quarter a project may be selected that will require video, animation, and industrial design students to complete the final project. Another quarter, the project may require video, photography and multimedia and web skills. Projects will vary and students and faculty will have the ability to propose projects for future classes.

Prerequisite(s): Has successfully completed at least 75 credits in their discipline with a 2.5 or higher GPA.

Credits: 3

CC479 - Special Projects II

This class was created to be either a continuation of CC478, Special Projects, when students wish to stay involved in a project that takes more than one quarter, or to offer them an additional opportunity to work on more than one Special Project. The Special Projects class is designed to emulate a real world environment by combining the skills of students from more than one curriculum. One quarter a project may be selected that will require video, animation, and industrial design students to complete the final project. Another quarter, the project may require video, photography and multimedia & web skills. Projects will vary and students and faculty will have the ability to propose projects for future classes.

Prerequisite(s): None

Credits: 3

Artisan Track 6 cr.

Students in the Artisan Track are required to take 2 core elective courses from the list below:

C314 - 2D Digital Animation

This course is an introduction to the 2D digital animation production. process The student will apply their traditional animation skills using a 2D animation software package. Students will create a fully colored and rendered animation.

Prerequisite(s): C220 C334

Credits: 3

CAT405 - Production Techniques

An introduction to production techniques and concepts.

Prerequisite(s): C230

Credits: 3

CAT415 - Advanced Animation Principles

A course dedicated to tackling some fx animation as well as multiple character scenes and their complex timings.

Prerequisite(s): C230

Credits: 3

CC420 - Internship

Through a field internship experience, students will be able to apply acquired subject matter and career/professional skills in a real and practical situation. The main objectives of the internship are to allow students the opportunity to observe and participate in the operation of successful business in relation to their fields of study. The students will gain experience needed to enter the field upon graduation.

Prerequisite(s): Successful completion of at least 75 credits in their discipline with a 2.75 or higher CGPA

Credits: 3

Video Production Track 6 cr.

Students in the Video Production Track are required to take 2 core elective courses from the list below:

CAT406 - Filmmaking for Animation

In this class students will learn the basic techniques used in aquiring motion video footage for use in creating a short video presentation. Form, composition, camera setups, and shots will be discussed as well as basic lighting schemes and recording audio for video on location. The students will create a short video presentation as a final project.

Prerequisite(s): None

Credits: 3

CAT416 - Advanced Digital Compositing

This course will expose students to the disciplines used in finalizing a composited project utilizing various software. The class will reinforce compositing concepts and techniques that students have learned in previous classes. Each student will produce a final, edited project that combines live-action, stills, CG imagery, and/or stop-motion puppets and miniatures.

Prerequisite(s): C313

Credits: 3

CC420 - Internship

Through a field internship experience, students will be able to apply acquired subject matter and career/professional skills in a real and practical situation. The main objectives of the internship are to allow students the opportunity to observe and participate in the operation of successful business in relation to their fields of study. The students will gain experience needed to enter the field upon graduation.

Prerequisite(s): Successful completion of at least 75 credits in their discipline with a 2.75 or higher CGPA

Credits: 3

Games Track 6 cr.

Students in the Games Track are required to take 2 core elective courses from the list below:

C411 - Introduction to Games

This course explores the development and production of a computer game. Discussion will cover the task of designing a game for specific platforms such as a home PC. Focus will be placed on creating and executing designs within strict technological and financial restrictions.

Prerequisite(s): C232

Credits: 3

C421 - Games

This course explores the techniques used in the production of a computer game. Discussion will cover the techniques used in the production of computer graphics for use in platform or PC games. Focus will be placed on creating models and interfaces with limited polygons and low-resolution texture maps.

Prerequisite(s): C411

Credits: 4

CC420 - Internship

Through a field internship experience, students will be able to apply acquired subject matter and career/professional skills in a real and practical situation. The main objectives of the internship are to allow students the opportunity to observe and participate in the operation of successful business in relation to their fields of study. The students will gain experience needed to enter the field upon graduation.

Prerequisite(s): Successful completion of at least 75 credits in their discipline with a 2.75 or higher CGPA

Credits: 3

Advanced Computer Generated Imaging Track 6 cr.

Students in the Advanced Computer Generated Imaging Track are required to take 2 core elective courses from the list below:

C422 - Advanced Software III

A production course in which the student utilizes the information learned in the previous two courses to produce portfolio pieces under the supervision and guidance of the instructor.

Prerequisite(s): C412

Credits: 3

C444 - Advanced Software IV

This course will further develop the student's digital animation skills by integrating advanced computer generated effects and simulations such as: Particles, Dynamics, Cloth, Hair, and Fur.

Prerequisite(s): C422

Credits: 3

C445 - Digital Sculpting and Texturing

A study of sculpture inside the computer. Students will create their own 3D sculptures and texture them using multiple construction techniques.

Prerequisite(s): C232

Credits: 3

Special Projects Track 6 cr.

CC478 - Special Projects

This class is designed to emulate a real world environment by combining the skills of students from more than one curriculum. One quarter a project may be selected that will require video, animation, and industrial design students to complete the final project. Another quarter, the project may require video, photography and multimedia and web skills. Projects will vary and students and faculty will have the ability to propose projects for future classes.

Prerequisite(s): Has successfully completed at least 75 credits in their discipline with a 2.5 or higher GPA.

Credits: 3

CC479 - Special Projects II

This class was created to be either a continuation of CC478, Special Projects, when students wish to stay involved in a project that takes more than one quarter, or to offer them an additional opportunity to work on more than one Special Project. The Special Projects class is designed to emulate a real world environment by combining the skills of students from more than one curriculum. One quarter a project may be selected that will require video, animation, and industrial design students to complete the final project. Another quarter, the project may require video, photography and multimedia & web skills. Projects will vary and students and faculty will have the ability to propose projects for future classes.

Prerequisite(s): None

Credits: 3

CC480 - Special Projects III

This class was created to be either a continuation of CC478 and CC479, Special Projects and Special Projects II, when students wish to stay involved in a project that takes more than two quarters, or to offer them an additional opportunity to work on more than one Special Project. The Special Projects class is designed to emulate a real world environment by combining the skills of students from more than one curriculum. One quarter a project may be selected that will require video, animation, and industrial design students to complete the final project. Another quarter, the project may require video, photography and multimedia & web skills. Projects will vary and students and faculty will have the ability to propose projects for future classes.

Prerequisite(s): None

Credits: 3

General Education 32 cr.

Students are required to take 8 required general education courses as follows:

Students need to select ART1020 OR ART1030.

ART1020 - History of Art In Early Civilization

This course is a history of art from the Prehistoric/Tribal period through the Baroque. The concepts, artists, works, and styles of the periods will be studied through the use of a textbook, slides, videos and projects.

Prerequisite(s): None

Credits: 4

ART1030 - Survey of Modern and Contemporary Art

This course is a history of art from neoclassicism to contemporary art. Concepts, artists, works and styles of the periods will be studied through the use of a textbook, slides, videos and projects.

Prerequisite(s): None

Credits: 4

COM1010 - Speech

Students will develop and refine presentation skills focusing on compiling, organizing and outlining the research material in preparation for the assignments.

Prerequisite(s): ENG1010

Credits: 4

COM3010 - Advanced Communications

The purpose of this course is to examine the theoretical and practical aspects involved in effective communication. The course will emphasize essential elements of communication in both personal and professional environments as well as identify and analyze efficient oral and written delivery techniques.

Prerequisite(s): COM1010 ENG1010

Credits: 4

ENG1010 - Composition and Language

Students will be introduced to college level writing processes, including theme, composition, and research. Students will adhere to standard conventions of written English.

Prerequisite(s): None

Credits: 4

ENG1020 - Composition and Language II

An extension of Composition and Language I with an emphasis on the refinement of individual skills, writing styles and voices, and on research procedures. Selected readings in prose, drama, and poetry supplement the course and provide topics for discussion and written assignments. A series of short papers, including documentation, may be required.

Prerequisite(s): ENG1010

Credits: 4

MTH1010 - College Math

Concepts of algebra including linear and quadratic equations, polynomials, exponents, logarithms and functions. Emphasis on graphical representations of functions. This course is designed to build an adequate background for the college-level mathematics, science and business courses.

Prerequisite(s): None

Credits: 4

PHI2200 - Logic

Philosophy, literally "friend of wisdom," is a two-fold activity. Initially we think of the "reflective" discipline that attempts to address life's big questions about ourselves and our world, but there is also a "doing" component concerned with developing the ability to think critically and evaluate various responses to philosophical problems. This course focuses on the "doing" aspect, encouraging students to develop the critical thinking skills necessary to evaluate a wide variety of information. Irving Copi defines logic as the study of the methods and principles used to distinguish good (correct) from bad (incorrect) reasoning. Since life in the "information age" of the twenty-first century demands that we sort through large quantities of data, some valuable - some worthless - it is necessary to acquire the critical thinking skills that allow us to easily distinguish the quality of information coming through various media channels (TV, radio, Internet, stock quotes, financial reports, proposals, grants, etc.). Logic teaches rudimentary reasoning skills that will help you refine your decision-making and information-sorting skills. This class requires at least two hours of study for every one hour spent in the classroom. Students will be expected to attend regularly and participate in class discussions.

Prerequisite(s): None

Credits: 4

PHY1010 - Physics

Students will learn basic motion and force laws; principles of Newton's laws of motion; motion along straight and curved paths; weight; work, energy and power; impulse, momentum and impact; squash and stretch; waves and sound, light and image formation will also be studied.

Prerequisite(s): MTH1010

Credits: 4

General Education Electives 28 cr.

Students are required to take 7 general education electives.

One General Education Elective course must be taken from each area: English, Science/Math, Humanities, and Social Science.  Three General Education Elective courses must be at the 2000-level or higher, and three additional courses must be at the 3000-level or higher.

 

Some courses are offered on a rotating basis.

Transitional Courses 0-12 cr.

Placement tests in Math and English are administered to determine if a student needs additional preparation in either of these areas.  If a need is indicated, accepted applicants are placed in developmental courses on the basis of their placement test scores and/or transfer credit.  Students must successfully complete or place out of transitional courses in order to progress in the program. Transitional course credits do not count towards the total number of credits for graduation or cumulative grade point average.  Taking transitional classes increases the number of courses a student will take and may extend the number of quarters a student will be in attendance.

ENG095 - Reading and Writing Skills

This course emphasizes the study of basic competencies needed in order to perform satisfactorily in a college-level English course. Specifically, this includes grammatical, mechanical, and usage skills essential to produce competent paragraphs and essays.

Prerequisite(s): None

Credits:

MTH099 - Basic Mathematics

This course emphasizes the study of basic competencies needed in order to perform satisfactorily in a college-level basic mathematics course. Specifically this includes concepts and applications of whole numbers, decimals, fractions, percents, the order of operations and signed numbers.

Prerequisite(s): MTH100 requires a C or better for a passing grade. Once placed in MTH099 you must pass both Transitional Math courses (MTH099 and MTH100) with a C or better before taking College Math (MTH101).

Credits: 3

MTH100 - Elementary Algebra

This course emphasizes the study of basic algebraic concepts needed to perform satisfactorily in the college-level mathematics course. Specifically, this includes signed numbers, variables, exponents, equations, inequalities, graphing techniques, polynomials, factoring, rational expressions and applications.

Prerequisite(s): MTH099

Credits: 0

SS100 - Strategies for Online Learning

This course will familiarize students with the academic skills needed to succeed at the college level and in the online learning environment. Students will be encouraged to develop an attitude of curiosity and inquisitiveness, a capacity for perspective and comparison, and an ability to think rationally and contextually. The course will emphasize students' responsibility for a successful undergraduate education and the importance of being a lifelong learner. Students will also be introduced to policy and procedures of the Art Institute of Pittsburgh – Online Division.

Prerequisite(s): None

Credits: 3