23 courses with the subject MDA, each shown exactly as we captured it from the college's catalog, with every element we hold. Where the wording looks broken, that is our reading of the catalog, not the college's text.
MDA 112XPrinciples of Design3
FALL This course is an introductory overview of the design field. It introduces framework for design with theories and skills. This includes the principles and elements of design. Fee. (Cross-listed as FAR 112X )
SPRING This course introduces students to the fundamental principles of visual storytelling across various mediums, including film, photography, and digital media. Students will explore narrative techniques, composition, color theory, and visual aesthetics to effectively communicate ideas and emotions through imagery. Students will learn to analyze visual narratives and develop their own storytelling skills. Emphasis will be placed on creating engaging visual content that resonates with audiences and conveys a clear message. Fee.
FALL An in-depth exploration of how the media of mass communication both reflect and influence our culture. The relationship between our environment, our social interaction and various communication channels will be examined. Students will be challenged with the task of using communication forms to transform popular culture rather than being uncritically transformed by it. Fee.
FALL This course introduces students to the fundamental techniques of video production, focusing on both the technical and creative aspects of the craft. Students will learn the essentials of camera operation, sound recording, lighting, and editing, with hands-on practice in each phase of production. By the end of the course, students will have a solid foundation in video production, enabling them to create visual content across a range of media. Fee. (Cross-listed as FAR 248X )
SPRING This course introduces the creative and technical practices of graphic design. Students will learn how to combine images, typography, and other visual elements to communicate ideas and engage audiences. They will also practice the design process, which includes research, ideation, refinement, and execution. Creative projects will utilize professional-grade software and may include publication design, logos, posters, and packaging. Fee. (Cross-listed as FAR 249X )
SPRING This class builds upon the experiences and techniques learned in Video Production Lab 1 to further develop the students practical and collaborative media production skills. Fee. Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory grading only.
FALL This course introduces students to the essential elements and techniques of professional screenwriting, focusing on the creation of production-ready short screenplays. Students will explore key storytelling components-including imagery, character development, dialogue, and plot-while gaining a deep understanding of screenplay structure and form. Fee. Offered alternate years (odd)
FALL This course offers an in-depth exploration of sound recording and design techniques essential for video production. Students will learn the principles of sound theory, microphone selection, audio recording, and sound editing, gaining hands-on experience with industry-standard equipment and software. Through lectures, workshops, and practical projects, students will develop skills in capturing high-quality sound on set and creating soundscapes that enhance storytelling. Fee. Offered alternate years (odd)
FALL This course introduces students to the workflow of digital cinematography, including camera operation, lens selection, lighting, and gripping. There is also an emphasis on the roles and responsibilities of a professional camera crew, specifically the director of photography, camera operator, and camera assistants. Students will examine composition, exposure, lighting, movement, and blocking through the use of a variety of camera and grip equipment. Fee. Offered alternate years (odd)
FALL This course provides an in-depth exploration of typography, emphasizing its critical role in the field of graphic design. Students will explore the history, theory, and application of typographic principles in both print and digital media. Through hands-on projects and critiques, participants will develop a keen understanding of readability, the emotional impacts of type, and the strategic integration of typography in branding and advertising campaigns. Fee. Offered alternate years (even)
FALL This course introduces the core principles and methodologies of web and user interface design. Students will explore key topics such as user experience (UX) design, responsive design, wireframing, and prototyping, while gaining hands-on experience constructing intuitive and engaging websites. Fee. Offered alternate years (odd)
SPRING This course introduces the creative and technical practices of motion media design. Students will design primarily 2-dimensional graphics and typography for time-based media and bring them to life with sound and animation in professional-grade software. Creative projects may include visual music, title pages, and animated infographics. Fee. Offered alternate years (even)
Arranged by Department This course considers various topics in Media Arts. The focus will be determined by the instructor and students enrolled. The primary approaches are in-depth exploration of a topic. Students may take this course more than once for credit. Fee.
FALL This course introduces students to the foundational concepts and essential techniques of video editing and post-production. Students will learn the non-linear editing workflow, from organizing and trimming footage to applying transitions, effects, and color correction. Working with industry-standard software, they will gain experience in building cohesive stories and creating polished final exports. Fee. Offered alternate years (even)
SPRING In this course, students will apply advanced skills in research, production, and post-production to create original documentary films. Students will refine their ability to make ethical storytelling decisions, handle complex narratives, and use professional production techniques, including advanced camera work, sound design, and editing. Fee. Offered alternate years (even)
SPRING This course builds upon the foundations of graphic design, emphasizing advanced techniques in visual communication, conceptual development, and creative problem-solving. Students will deepen their proficiency in design software and understanding of client needs in print and digital media. Attention will be given to mastering the design process and producing professional-quality work suitable for portfolios. Fee. Offered alternate years (odd)
SPRING In this course, students will create a cohesive, multi-platform design series that integrates visual and messaging elements across several media formats. An emphasis is placed on strategic thinking and portfolio development, as students are equipped to design for diverse channels including but not limited to print, interactive, digital, environmental, motion, and social media. Fee. Offered alternate years (even)
Arranged by Department Practical experience in real-world media arts. Student interns are work in organizations, agencies, or media arts industries and observe, assist, assume regular duties, or engage in special projects under the supervision of skilled professionals. Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory grading only.
Acceptance to the Humanities/Social Science Department and instructor consent.
MDA 451Media Arts Internship II1-3
Arranged by Department Media-related field experience in which students work at least 37.5 hours per credit for businesses, organizations, agencies, or media outlets. Student interns observe, assist, assume regular duties, or engage in special projects under the supervision of skilled professionals. Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory grading only.
Acceptance to the Humanities/Social Science Department and instructor consent.
MDA 452Advanced Video Production4
SPRING This course builds on skills learned in prior production courses. Students will take on key production roles-such as director, producer, cinematographer, and editor-and apply advanced techniques in development, pre-production, lighting, sound design, and post-production. Through a hands-on, crew-based approach, students will strengthen their ability to work as part of a production team while exploring creative decision-making and technical challenges. Fee. Offered alternate years (odd)
FALL and SPRING In Part I of the Media Arts capstone curriculum, students begin development on a substantial project that reflects their chosen concentration. Projects may be developed individually or in small teams. The course emphasizes both artistic achievement and career preparation as students transition from college into professional practice. Fee.
Media Arts Major, Graphic Design Concentration (B.A.) or Media Arts Major, Video Production Concentration (B.A.)
MDA 462Capstone Project & Portfolio Part 22
FALL and SPRING In Part II of the Media Arts Capstone curriculum, students complete and present their capstone project in an exhibition setting. Students also create a resume and online portfolio that demonstrates their body of work. Fee.