Hands-on courses in animated media and visual effects production alongisde historical and critical animation studies. Students explore experimental, abstract, character-based, and hybrid live-action and animation composited approaches. Projects are supplemented by readings, screenings, and workshops. Variable topics courses may be repeated with a different sub-topic for credit. Note: specific topics may fulfill distinct Core requirements.
Intro to Animation
A hands-on course in animated media production integrating analog and digital techniques. Students will explore experimental, abstract, and character-based approaches using hand-drawn animation, lens-based stop-motion, and digital methods alongside studying historical works and critical animation frameworks. Coursework emphasizes animation timing, audio-visual design, compositional principles, and pre-production methods for developing concepts and stories. Projects are supplemented by readings, screenings, discussion, and technical workshops. This course prepares students to create animated films and more advanced coursework in animation, games, or emerging media. No prior experience required.
3D Design & Animation
A hands-on course in 3D animated media production. Through practical workshops, students will learn modeling, lighting, animation, rendering, and concept design alongside studying historical works and critical animation frameworks. Coursework includes technical exercises, screenings, readings, discussion, and a series of short animated projects. Prior experience with animation, 3D, media production, or instructor permission required.
Representing Health, Illness, & Well-being Through Storytelling
Whose stories are being told, and whose are left out? How might animated storytelling voice new narratives of health, illness, and well-being? Students will examine how marginalized communities are misrepresented or absent in health conversations through readings, screenings, and discussions. Through journaling, sketching, and hands-on experimentation, students will explore animated storytelling techniques—experimental, abstract, and character-based—with emphasis on documentary animation's ability to represent health topics with sensitivity. Students will create storyboards, animatics, voice-over, sound design, and analog and digital animation. In groups, students will produce short animated films and develop online distribution plans for outreach. No prior experience required.