(DMA) Digital Media Arts Courses


(3 credits)  DMA 110 - Digital Imaging
Designed to meet the needs of artists and designers in diverse fields, involves the leading professional paint and photo retouching software. Addresses the practical and creative aspects of producing art and illustrations and manipulating photographs and other images through a series of hands-on assignments. 1 lecture / 4 laboratory hours

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(3 credits)  DMA 115 - Vector Drawing
Acquaints with the basics of production and use of vector graphics for use in print and illustration, web-based media, and animation. Skill development concentrates on the use of tools and transformation options of Adobe Illustrator, with emphasis on digital drawing for both text and graphics, use of Wacom pen tablet, key tools within Illustrator, and production of standard industry graphics for use in print, web, and animation. 1 lecture / 4 laboratory hours

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(3 credits)  DMA 120 - 3-D Modeling I
Develops visual problem-solving abilities using computers as art and design tools. Students create and manipulate three-dimensional forms and scenes, their colors, surface textures, lighting and cameras to design effective compositions in virtual 3-D space. Useful for graphic arts, communications, interior design and architectural professions, prepares students for Animation I and 3-D Modeling II. Windows-based PC computers, scanners, and current professional software are used. 1 lecture / 4 laboratory hours

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(3 credits)  DMA 135 - Digital Narrative
Prerequisite: DMA 115 with a minimum C grade
Exploration of narrative art, its structure and approaches as it applies to time-based graphics. Students investigate narrative in a variety of formats -- from comics to animation to film editing and various "artistic" permutations in between -- with emphasis on current digital practices. 1 lecture / 4 studio hours

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General Education course Technology
(3 credits)  DMA 144 - Internet Tools and Techniques
Introduction to the tools and techniques used to create blogs, commercial websites and Internet applications. Topics include the history of the Internet, Internet software and hardware, ethical issues surrounding privacy, accessibility and ownership on the Internet, information architecture and content strategies, and the tools used for blogging, creating web pages and rich web applications. Students research, analyze, diagram, and create Internet applications and websites. 1 lecture / 4 studio hours

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(3 credits)  DMA 145 - Web Design I
Prerequisites: DMA 110, placement in college-level English
Introduction to web design using a professional software application. Focuses on principles of design and interactivity. Students learn how to create images for the web, manage files, organize imagery using tables, style text using cascading style sheets, create animated gifs, and add interactivity using basic JavaScript behaviors. 1 lecture / 4 studio hours

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(3 credits)  DMA 210 - Motion Graphics
Prerequisite: CMN 141 or DMA 135 with a minimum C grade or divisional permission
Digital art in motion: concepts and techniques of visual storytelling emphasizing issues of pacing, continuity and dramatic structure. 2-D graphics, video and sound are combined using new media tools to explore the possibilities of new media art. Course content is applicable to the fields of 3-D animation, film and television title sequences, commercials, multimedia design and music videos. [Spring offering] 1 lecture / 4 studio hours

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(3 credits)  DMA 225 - Computer Animation I
Prerequisites: DMA 120 and DMA 135 with a minimum C grade or divisional permission
Using 3-D animation software and video interface, students produce special effects and character animations from storyboard to output. Windows-based personal computers and current professional software are used. [Fall offering] 1 lecture / 4 studio hours

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(3 credits)  DMA 226 - Computer Animation II
Prerequisites: DMA 120 and DMA 135 with a minimum C grade or divisional permission
Advanced 3-D character animation and special effects involving character animation, inverse kinematics, and particle systems. Students produce a recording of their work and develop presentation skills. Windows-based personal computers and current professional software are used. [Spring offering] 1 lecture / 4 studio hours

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(3 credits)  DMA 245 - Web Design II
Prerequisite: DMA 145 with a minimum C grade
Applies intermediate to advanced web design concepts with an emphasis on UI Design. Students design and develop websites utilizing professional software, identify target audiences based on client needs, produce websites according to accessibility standards, manage digital assets online, build website components, and work in a team-based environment. 1 lecture / 4 studio hours

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(3 credits)  DMA 250 - Digital Portfolio Seminar
Prerequisite: DMA 115 or ART 105 or PHO 203 or CMN 241 or CMN 250 with a minimum C grade or divisional permission
Introduction to the culture, technologies, history, and theories of new media. Advanced digital media arts students explore topics in digital media while developing a digital portfolio to present their work. 1 lecture / 4 studio hours

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(3 credits)  DMA 275 - Interdisciplinary Studio
Prerequisite: DMA 115 with a minimum C grade or divisional permission
Students explore the possibilities and implications of combining digital and traditional tools and techniques in the service of personal expression as fine art. Focuses on exploring each individual's aesthetic expression and the development of individual style. A variety of techniques, software, and theoretical issues are presented. Students are expected to create a series of pieces for exhibition, with emphasis on the printed output. [occasional offering] 1 lecture /4  studio hours

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(3 credits)  DMA 290 - Digital Media Arts Internship
Prerequisite: coordinator approval
Work experience at participating animation studios, advertising agencies, design firms, and film and video effects houses. 1 lecture / 180 work experience hours

course outline   current classes