This course provides an introductory overview to computer systems and to principles associated with motion picture technologies. Topics covered include computer history, basics in computer architecture basics, operating systems, HTML and networking. Human vision and perception, image capture and display technologies (both analog and digital), digital image processing and post-production equipment and software are also covered. The course focuses on exposing the students to basic principles necessary to proceed with subsequent courses with production or animation focus.

This course will offer hands-on experience in manipulating live action video and applying digital effects. There is an emphasis on digital compositing using rotoscoping, image tracking, alpha channels and transparency. Composites may be accomplished through green screen shooting, transfer modes, masks, and/or traveling mattes. Node based compositing will also be addressed as well.

This course is an introduction to the creation of three-dimensional generated visual effects designed to enhance film and animation productions. This includes everything from generated particle simulation to dynamic simulations of fluid, rigid bodies, and cloth. Students will work across multiple applications and learn to successfully integrate various elements into cohesive scenes.

SOFA Independent Study will provide students with the ability to study in a specialized area with an individual faculty member. Students, with the assistance of a faculty adviser, should propose a course of study or project with clearly defined deliverables. Students must obtain permission of an instructor and complete the Independent Study Permission Form to enroll. Student must have a minimum of a 3.0 GPA to apply.

Students will learn digital compositing using rotoscoping, image tracking, alpha channels and transparency. Composites may be accomplished through green screen shooting, transfer modes, masks, and/or traveling mattes. Students will shoot their own footage to combine with their effects to create the final image. Node based compositing will be addressed as well.

This is an intermediate animation course that will focus on After Effects. The course will cover: visual effects development, character animation, puppet-building, world-building, time management, and post-production cleanup. Students will learn and engage with design and style development in animation production.

This course is an introduction to the creation of three-dimensional generated visual effects designed to enhance film and animation productions. This includes everything from generated particle simulation to dynamic simulations of fluid, rigid bodies, and cloth. Students will work across multiple applications and learn to successfully integrate various elements into cohesive scenes.

This is the first of two courses designed to advance a student towards completion of their thesis. Students will work independently on their approved plan of work for their thesis while meeting on a regular basis with their committee chair. They are required to meet at least twice with their full committee during the semester.

Film and Animation Graduate Independent Study will provide students with the ability to study in a specialized area with an individual faculty member. Students, with the assistance of a faculty adviser, should propose a course of study or project with clearly defined deliverables. Students must obtain permission of an instructor and complete the Independent Study Permission Form to enroll. Student must have a minimum of a 3.0 GPA to apply.

This is the second of two courses designed to advance a student towards completion of their thesis. Students will work independently on their approved plan of work for their thesis while meeting on a regular basis with their committee chair. They are required to meet at least twice with their full committee during the semester as well as present a final screening of their thesis.