CIAT - Computer Imaging Architectural Technology

An introduction to fundamental design, architectural design drawing and applied drawing techniques. Students are introduced in lecture to design and drawing principles, techniques and conventions used to develop and communicate architectural ideas. Lab assignments emphasize the relationship between drawing and three-dimensional form and space, and include exercises in basic design and model-making. Topics include principles of design and architectural theory, observational sketching, depicting light, texture and depth, analytical drawing, orthographic and paraline projection systems, and professional standards for layout, lettering, use of line weights, and dimensioning of architectural drawings.

This course is a fundamental course that investigates the properties and principles of basic color theory and its interrelationship with lighting. The focus is on the psychological and physiological effects of color and lighting as they apply to the form, texture, and finish of interior spaces. It also provides a basic understanding of lighting calculations, types of lamps and their uses. Additionally, there will be a segment on calculations related to acoustical performance.

This course is intended for persons who are considering the pursuit of a degree in one of the CIAET curriculums or who could benefit from additional instruction in one of those fields. The main objective of this course is to prepare students for success in subsequent required studio courses. Design Studio Basics provides a series of lectures that cover a variety of topics including history, theory, building technology, application, drawing and model building techniques. The associated studio component will introduce students to ideas, principals and methods of solving architectural problems. Course assignments and projects will address and develop observation and drawing skills, model making, individual research on specific architects and buildings, conceptual making of space and form, presentation techniques, class discussion and other basic design skills.

This studio course emphasizes the design process and space planning for modest size facilities.  The students will apply color rendering techniques to present interior design solutions.  Students will select appropriate materials for various spaces in accordance with accepted design standards.  Design issues such as furniture planning and layouts, application of color, and building code and ADA (American with Disabilities Act) considerations are included.

This design course focuses on the development of complex interior space planning for large commercial/public facilities. Problem solving for both individual and collaborative projects are accomplished through various research methods and programming of client needs. Students will refine both manual and computer generated drawing and rendering techniques. An integrative approach to the design process will include technical issues, budgetary concerns, and code compliance.

This is a course that provides beginning experiences in 3D polygon modeling.  It focuses on creating organic and inorganic objects that visually communicate a given mood, emotion, and/or scenario.  Students will analyze objects geometrically and use defined processes and techniques to produce these objects for visualization and communication through modeling, lighting, and texturing using polygonal shapes.

This is a course that introduces the student to the art of creating cartoon-style animation applicable to industry needs in graphic design, interactive media, the internet, film, and television using Macromedia Flash.  The course emphasizes student acquisition production with both cameraless and computer-based techniques.

This is a course that introduces the student to 3D computer animation.  Autodesk's Maya software is emphasized.  The course focuses on the building and rigging of skeletons for organic and inorganic objects as well as animation of biped, quadruped, and object motion, and soft-body and rigid-body object motion to visually communicate specific actions and/or emotions.  Traditional animation concepts and 3D computerized animation techniques will be theoretically explored and practically applied.

The course concentrates on problem solving methods for a variety of architectural project types and sizes. Students working individually and in teams explore and document their work through sketches, study models and preliminary working drawings. The students are encouraged to develop a professional approach to investigating, analyzing and solving architectural problems. This is the culminating course of the two-year degree program as well as a stepping-stone to the upper level studio courses in the four-year degree program.

This is a course where students will integrate aspects from their studies of the previous two semesters and create a 15 week production. This can range from character animation, to commercials, public service announcements, even interactive presentations. There is a focus on individual creative projects centered on visually communicating a message, theme, etc. to the audience through animation.

This course will prepare students for the task of finding a career in the digital media and/or animation fields. Instruction will be given to develop and design Web portfolios, print portfolios, and demo reels that promote the individual's work. Web authoring software such as Dreamweaver and Flash will be used in the creation of individual Web sites. Non-linear video and sound editing software, such as Soundtrack Pro, SoundBooth, Final Cut Pro, and Premiere will be used to optimize video, sound, and animation work for the various forms of portfolios being created. Print portfolios are created using Photoshop, Illustrator, and Indesign software packages. Additional topics to be covered include writing for job/grant opportunities: biographies, artist statements, resumes, cover letters, and grant writing. Students will also formally present their work to the academic community and prepare for interviews. Students must apply for at least one "real world" opportunity during the course of the class.

This course will introduce the student to the use of current non-linear editing technology. Class projects will develop an understanding of the methods used for creating, sampling and storing digital video and audio and the constraints placed on these media assets when used for media based products. Emphasis is placed upon the technology of digital video and audio, including: formats, data rates and compression algorithms.

This studio is designed to develop the student's ability to apply and integrate architectural principles and methods to design of buildings and spaces. The exploration and study of architectural design and technology makes connections between theory and practice through the design of buildings and environments that explore the relationship between architecture, building systems, and human experience. Students will be expected to progress through the schematic design and design development phases of short-term and extended design projects.

Sustainable Building Design is a relatively new approach to architectural design which evolved from solar design solutions of the past three decades. In this field, architects attempt to design structures that have a minimum negative impact on the natural world. In this course students concentrate on five major area of sustainability including energy, air, water, materials, and site planning. Students will produce a final design project that integrates the five major areas discussed.

A student may contract for one to four credit hours of independent study through an arrangement with an instructor who agrees to direct such a study.  The student will submit a plan acceptable to the instructor and to the department chairperson.  The instructor and student will confer regularly regarding the process of the study.

Broadcast design and motion graphics are used to inspire and influence viewers via experimental video, film title sequences, and revolutionary TV commercials.  Through a series of exercises and projects, students will design and create graphic-based imagery and will be able to integrate typographical skills in their work.

This course is a continuation of the sequence of 3D classes. It takes the projects introduced the previous semester in Advanced Modeling (CIAT 6303) and applies texturing, lighting, and rendering for 3D animation. Students will create professional quality textures using traditional means as well as using software. They will design and use complex lighting systems and rendering techniques.

This course will consist of lectures and associated exercises intended to provide the student with a framework that will support and guide them through the beginning stage of their senior thesis project exploration. Emphasis will be placed on developing research and writing skills that will enhance the student's ability to select an acceptable thesis project and site, and develop a program based on a given set of requirements.

This is a cumulative two-part course where students will integrate aspects from their studies of the previous three years. Students will use this semester to create one of the following: a 3D animated film; a 2D animated film; an Experimental Animation film (Stop Motion, Mixture of 2D and 3D animation or a fully Interactive/Informative Media project.) Students will produce all pre-production work including proposal, storyboards and animatics. Students will also produce all post-production work including editing, sound mixing and final delivery format (CD, VHS, and /or DVD) prior to a film screening in the spring semester.

The context within which buildings and spaces are created is rapidly evolving as is the way in which architecture and design is practiced. This advanced course is designed to provide the future practitioner with a comprehensive study of the business and practice of architecture and design. Emphasis will be placed on practical skills and usable information that will enhance the students’ ability to function within the design professions and/or related disciplines.

This is a cumulative two-part course where students will integrate aspects from their studies of the previous three years. Students will use this semester to create one of the following: a 3D animated film; a 2D animated film; an Experimental Animation film (Stop Motion, Mixture of 2D and 3D animation or a fully Interactive/Informative Media project). Students will produce all pre-production work including proposal, storyboards and animatics. Students will also produce all post-production work including editing, sound mixing and final delivery format (CD, VHS, and /or DVD) prior to a film screening.