Liberal Studies Courses
CDM offers dozens of courses in many domains of the Liberal Studies Program. You can experiment with Screenwriting, Digital Photography, Game Design, Computer Graphics, and Programming and fulfill a requirement at the same time. Many of these courses also serve as gateway courses into more advanced CDM courses.
This list represents Liberal Studies Program (LSP) courses taught by CDM only.
For a complete list of LSP courses, visit the
Liberal Studies homepage.
- Arts and Literature
- DC 120
Students analyze and assemble dramatic scenes under a variety of conditions and narrative strategies. Editing theories, techniques and procedures, issues of continuity, effects, movement and sound are examined as they relate to the fundamentals of cinematic montage and visual storytelling. This class presents a variety of topics and experiences that are designed to broaden the student's understanding of the art of cinematic storytelling and montage. Work on more advanced projects is integrated into the class as a means to an understanding of advanced editing tools and techniques.
- DC 113
This course is an introduction to the uses and practical applications of sound for multimedia. Students will study various uses of sound and music on the Internet from creative to professional websites. Using free or inexpensive hardware and software, students will learn to create and edit podcasts and attach audio files to programs and web pages such as Facebook, Itunes, Keynote, PowerPoint and other sites. The course will cover both MAC and PC applications so all students will be able to work on projects from their home computers. The course will also cover current legalities of digital media.
- DC 125
This course is an introduction to the history and aesthetics of still photography and to the concept of photography as a descriptive and interpretive artistic medium. Students studying photographs in this context will discover relationships between individual photographers choices and their own understanding of meaning. Students will learn the fundamental concepts necessary to shoot, edit, manipulate, and print digital still photographs.
- DC 201
This course focuses on narrative storytelling and encourages students to find their unique voices, while emphasizing the critical importance of working as part of a creative team.
- DC 202
This course studies the origins and rise of film editing as an art form, an industry, a set of technological practices ranging from analog film to digital video. The course examines critical historical events that impacted film editing, the emergence of the studio system, the coming of sound, narrative, experimental and documentary film, MTV, and audience shifts. For many, editing is the unique source of the art of filmmaking. This course addresses this question.
- DC 205
Acquisition and computer representation of sound and image. Sound and video standards. Lossy and Lossless compression. Basic computer graphics and rendering. Distribution of digital information.
- DC 222
This course focuses on the critical analysis of narrative structure in Cinema. Students will learn how to identify key story concepts and break down three act structure in finished films and scripts.
- DC 233
This course will provide an overview of avant-garde film, video, animation and installation and the relationship of these cinematic forms to Modern and Contemporary art.
- DC 250
This course is an introduction and examination of the collaborative process between the actor and director. Methods of study include lecture, discussion, assignments, and in-class acting exercises.
- GAM 224
Students will learn about a game's "hook", its "high concept" and the crucial needs of marketing for a successful game design. Students will also learn to design a game's component pieces.
- GD 200
This course introduces the world of graphic design in a social and historical context. The goals are to explore formal structures and research methods with emphasis on the role of analysis and conceptual thinking as the first tasks of the print and multi-media designer. The course includes basic instruction in typography, color, problem-solving in print and on screen.
- GD 220
The history of graphic design is an evolution in aesthetics, technology, style and visual communication. The class will encompass a survey of the major movements in the field of print design, notable designers and design materials. The nature of changing methods, materials, technologies and values are examined in the context of the social and political realities that shape communication. The course will include the historical shift from print to multimedia design methodologies.
- GPH 211
- GPH 212
- GPH 213
These 3 foundational courses in computer animation take you through the process of creating 2-D and 3-D representations on the computer. The last course teaches you how to animate them.
- ANI 101
This course introduces a variety of basic animation techniques for cinema and gaming, such as hand-drawn, cutout, stop-motion and (very basic) 3D, with an emphasis on the use of computer technology.
- ANI 206
History of Animation: This course is an introduction to the history and development of the field of animation.
- Junior Experiential Learning Credit
- CSC 298
Computer Science Internship in cooperation with local employers this course offers students the opportunity to integrate their academic experience with on-the-job training in computer related work areas.
- CSC 378
- CSC 379
Students in this course will have the opportunity to assess urban community needs in the technology arena and develop skills in assisting and developing methods for bridging the digital divide that exists.
- DC 298
This course offers students an excellent opportunity to gain professional experience, industry contacts, and referrals while still in school. Opportunities in post-production, motion picture production, advertising, television, animation, motion graphics and interactive media. Admission to the program requires consent of internship course instructor. Current work experience plus classroom time is required. Supervisor evaluation will contribute to the final grade.
- DC 380
Production of a feature-length digital motion picture written by students or faculty within the Digital Cinema program.
- GD 380
This course enables students to work from start to finish on client-based graphic design and projects. Students establish working relationships as individuals and in teams that utilize their skills to effectively evaluate the communication needs of an organization or business, develop design solutions that fulfill those needs, and negotiate the process between designers and clients.
- IT 300
This course involves the exploration of a research topic under the supervision of a research advisor.
- IT 398
This course focuses on current topics in the information and communications technologies that together support the "networked world." Sample topics are global software development and deployment, global data and information management, and cross-cultural project management for information systems.
- GPH 360
The digital design and modeling of environmental spaces with attention to human use parameters.
- Scientific Inquiry
- CSC 235
How do you solve a problem? In this course we discuss different problem solving techniques and strategies such as modeling, establishing subgoals, and searching and pruning.
- CSC 200
Learn about careers using computers and pick up some skills to help you manage your own PC or network.
- CSC 211
- CSC 212
Two courses in programming JAVA, a cross-platform, web-enabled language.
- CSC 239
You will learn how to use Excel to analyze data and how to publish data and retrieve it from the World Wide Web.
- CSC 250
Study how computers are designed to think like people.
- CSC 261
- CSC 262
Two courses in programming C++
- CSC 270
This course explores complex systems both natural and man-made, characterized by the relationships between interacting entities.
- CSC 233
A history of code making and breaking and the math and (computer) science behind it.
- ECT 250
Ever shop online? Learn the basics behind how these kinds of web sites function.
- HCI 201
Overview of the Web, its origins and capabilities. Create your own sample web page.
- IM 222
This course discusses the basic problems and techniques of visualizing quantitative and qualitative data.
- IT 130
Learn to design your own web site.
- IT 223
- IT 236
- IT 240
Learn introductory concepts in constructing databases and networking files.
- IT 263
Learn about how to set up and secure a home notework.
- TDC 261
Learn about how networks work and how they impact your daily life.
- Scientific Inquiry: Lab/Quantitative
- GPH 259
Learn the basics of Computer Aided Design.
- DC 274
Learn the basic physics, and photochemistry that underlies cinematography
- Self, Society, and the Modern World
- DC 105
This course is designed to help students develop an informed, critical and practical understanding of new communication media, including ways to read, write and produce in a digital environment.
- DC 235
This course explores contemporary cinematic adaptations of literature and how recent re-workings in film open viewers up to critical analysis of the cultural practices surrounding the promotion and reception of these narratives.
- IM 208
Environments such as social networking sites, multiplayer online games and other online communities are becoming an increasingly large part of how we work, play, and learn. This course introduces the fundamentals for the interdisciplinary study of cyberculture and online social behavior. By examining core scholarship in this area, together with analyzing an existing virtual world, game, or online community, students will learn to research and understand new technologically-enabled social forms as they are emerging.
- GAM 208
Environments such as social networking sites, multiplayer online games and other online communities are becoming an increasingly large part of how we work, play, and learn. This course introduces the fundamentals for the interdisciplinary study of cyberculture and online social behavior. By examining core scholarship in this area, together with analyzing an existing virtual world, game, or online community, students will learn to research and understand new technologically-enabled social forms as they are emerging.
- IT 201
This course examines how various types of computer-based information systems form a critical part of modern organizations, how they work, and how they impact workers, organizations and the economy.
- IS 208
This course broadly surveys the history of IT applications and information systems from the historical perspective, and critically assesses the digital impact on industry, the economy, workers, citizens, social class and the future.
- CSC 223
This course will introduce students to an overview of social analysis techniques and the theories of social change.
- Understanding the Past: Intercontinental/Comparative
- GAM 206
This class will examine particular games and game genres in their historical context using a case study format.
- GPH 205
This course is a survey of the development, application and meaning of visual technologies in a wide range of world cultures from pre-history to the present.
- Philosophical Inquiry
- CSC 208
This course will research the impact technology has had in various areas of our lives, the new responsibilities technology presents, and our ability to deal with these changes in an ethical manner.
- DC 227
This course is a seminar on the philosophical analysis of film art focusing on aesthetic problems such as appearance and reality, literacy and visual effects, communication and alienation.
- DC 228
- GAM 228
- IT 228
These three courses focus on the impact of computer games, movies and other digital entertainment on an individual and society.
- The Internet and How It Works
- HCI 201
Overview of the Web, its origins and capabilities. Create your own sample web page.
- ECT 250
Ever shop at Gap.com? Learn the basic behind how these kinds of web sites function.
- IT 130
Learn to Design Your Own Website.
- IT 263
Programming and Basic Computer "Know-How".
- CSC 200
Learn about Careers using computers and pick up some skills to help you manage your own PC or network!
- CSC 210
A brief history of computers and an introduction to programming
- CSC 211
- CSC 212
Two courses in programming JAVA, a cross-platform, web-enabled language.
- CSC 261
- CSC 262
Two courses in programming C++.
- CSC 270
This course explores complex systems both natural and man-made, characterized by the relationships between interacting entities.
- TDC 261
- The Computer and Society
- IT 201
This course examines how various types of computer-based information systems form a critical part of modern organizations, how they work, and how they impact workers, organizations and the economy.
- IS 208
This course broadly surveys the history of IT applications and information systems from the historical perspective, and critically assesses the digital impact on industry, the economy, workers, citizens, social class and the future.
- CSC 208
This course will research the impact technology has had in various areas of our lives, the new responsibilities technology presents, and our ability to deal with these changes in an ethical manner.
- CSC 223
This course will introduce students to an overview of social analysis techniques and the theories of social change.
- CSC 250
Students taking this course will study human problem-solving and its simulation by computers. Artificial intelligence, pattern recognition and learning programs will be discussed.
- DC 228
- GAM 228
- IT 228 These courses focus on the impact of computer games, movies and other digital entertainment on an individual and society.
- IM 208
Environments such as social networking sites, multiplayer online games and other online communities are becoming an increasingly large part of how we work, play, and learn. This course introduces the fundamentals for the interdisciplinary study of cyberculture and online social behavior. By examining core scholarship in this area, together with analyzing an existing virtual world, game, or online community, students will learn to research and understand new technologically-enabled social forms as they are emerging.
- GAM 208
Environments such as social networking sites, multiplayer online games and other online communities are becoming an increasingly large part of how we work, play, and learn. This course introduces the fundamentals for the interdisciplinary study of cyberculture and online social behavior. By examining core scholarship in this area, together with analyzing an existing virtual world, game, or online community, students will learn to research and understand new technologically-enabled social forms as they are emerging.
- Computer Graphics and Motion Technology
- GPH 205
This course is a survey of the development, application and meaning of visual technologies in a wide range of world cultures from pre-history to the present.
- GPH 211
- GPH 212
- GPH 213
These three foundational courses in computer animation take you through the process of creating 2-D and 3-D representations on the computer. The last course teaches you how to animate them.
- GPH 259
Learn the basics of Computer Aided Design.
- GPH 360
The digital design and modeling of environmental spaces with attention to human use parameters.
- ANI 101
Course introduces a variety of basic animation techniques for cinema and gaming, such as hand-drawn, cutout, stop-motion and (very basic) 3D, with an emphasis on the use of computer technology.
- ANI 206
History of Animation: This course is an introduction to the history and development of the field of animation.
- Data Analysis and Retrieval
- CSC 235
How do you solve a problem? In this course we discuss different problem solving techniques and strategies such as modeling, establishing subgoals, and searching and pruning
- CSC 239
You will learn how to use Excel to analyze data and how to publish data and retrieve it from the World Wide Web.
- IT 223
- IT 240
Programmers: Scientific Inquiry: Elective
Learn introductory concepts in constructing databases and networking files.
Design your own web site.
- HCI 201
Overview of the Web, its origins and capabilities. Create your own sample web page.
- ECT 250
Ever shop at Gap.com? Learn the basic behind how these kinds of web sites function.
- IT 130
Learn to design your own complex web site
- Codes, Ciphers and Computer Intelligence
- CSC 250
Study how computers are designed to think like people.
- CSC 233
A history of code making and breaking and the math and (computer) science behind it.
- Digital Cinema and Gaming
- DC 105
This course is designed to help students develop an informed, critical and practical understanding of new communication media, including ways to read, write and produce in a digital environment.
- DC 113
This course is an introduction to the uses and practical applications of sound for multimedia. Students will study various uses of sound and music on the Internet from creative to professional websites. Using free or inexpensive hardware and software, students will learn to create and edit podcasts and attach audio files to programs and web pages such as Facebook, Itunes, Keynote, PowerPoint and other sites. The course will cover both Mac and PC applications so all students will be able to work on projects from their home computers. The course will also cover current legalities of digital media.
- DC 120
Students analyze and assemble dramatic scenes under a variety of conditions and narrative strategies. Editing theories, techniques and procedures, issues of continuity, effects, movement and sound are examined as they relate to the fundamentals of cinematic montage and visual storytelling. This class presents a variety of topics and experiences that are designed to broaden the student's understanding of the art of cinematic storytelling and montage. Work on more advanced projects is integrated into the class as a means to an understanding of advanced editing tools and techniques.
- DC 125
This course is an introduction to the history and aesthetics of still photography and to the concept of photography as a descriptive and interpretive artistic medium. Students studying photographs in this context will discover relationships between individual photographers choices and their own understanding of meaning. Students will learn the fundamental concepts necessary to shoot, edit, manipulate, and print digital still photographs.
- GAM 206
This class will examine particular games and game genres in their historical context using a case study format.
- DC 201
This course focuses on narrative storytelling and encourages students to find their unique voices, while emphasizing the critical importance of working as part of a creative team.
- DC 202
This course studies the origins and rise of film editing as an art form, an industry, a set of technological practices ranging from analog film to digital video. The course examines critical historical events that impacted film editing, the emergence of the studio system, the coming of sound, narrative, experimental and documentary film, MTV, and audience shifts. For many, editing is the unique source of the art of filmmaking. This course addresses this question.
- DC 205
Acquisition and computer representation of sound and image. Sound and video standards. Lossy and Lossless compression. Basic computer graphics and rendering. Distribution of digital information.
- DC 222
This course focuses on the critical analysis of narrative structure in Cinema. Students will learn how to identify key story concepts and break down three act structure in finished films and scripts.
- DC 233
This course will provide an overview of avant-garde film, video, animation and installation, and the relationship of these cinematic forms to Modern and Contemporary art.
- DC 227
This course is a seminar on the philosophical analysis of film art focusing on aesthetic problems such as appearance and reality, literacy and visual effects, communication and alienation.
- DC 228
- GAM 228 These courses focus on the impact of computer games, movies and other digital entertainment on an individual and society.
- DC 235
This course explores contemporary cinematic adaptations of literature and how recent re-workings in film open viewers up to critical analysis of the cultural practices surrounding the promotion and reception of these narratives.
- DC 250
This course is an introduction and examination of the collaborative process between the actor and director. Methods of study include lecture, discussion, assignments, and in-class acting exercises.
- DC 274
Learn the basic physics, and photochemistry that underlies cinematography
- GAM 224
Students will learn about a game's "hook", its "high concept" and the crucial needs of marketing for a successful game design. Students will also learn to design a game's component pieces.
- ANI 101
Course introduces a variety of basic animation techniques for cinema and gaming, such as hand-drawn, cutout, stop-motion and (very basic) 3D, with an emphasis on the use of computer technology.
- ANI 206
History of Animation: This course is an introduction to the history and development of the field of animation.
- Graphic Design
- GD 200
This course introduces the world of graphic design in a social and historical context. The goals are to explore formal structures and research methods with emphasis on the role of analysis and conceptual thinking as the first tasks of the print and multi-media designer. The course includes basic instruction in typography, color, problem-solving in print and on screen.
- GD 220
The history of graphic design is an evolution in aesthetics, technology, style and visual communication. The class will encompass a survey of the major movements in the field of print design, notable designers and design materials. The nature of changing methods, materials, technologies and values are examined in the context of the social and political realities that shape communication. The course will include the historical shift from print to multimedia design methodologies.
- GD 380
This course enables students to work from start to finish on client-based graphic design and projects. Students establish working relationships as individuals and in teams that utilize their skills to effectively evaluate the communication needs of an organization or business, develop design solutions that fulfill those needs, and negotiate the process between designers and clients.
- Visualization
- IM 222
This course discusses the basic problems and techniques of visualizing quantitative and qualitative data.
A CDM student can take any CDM course approved for liberal studies credit and use it to satisfy a domain of the liberal studies program (LSP) provided the course is NOT required as part of the student's major.
A CDM student can not count a course as a liberal studies requirement and a major requirement. No double counting is allowed for CDM classes by CDM students.
Example 1
- A CGMT student cannot use GPH 211 to satisfy the arts and literature requirement of LSP, as GPH 211 is required by all CGMT tracks.
- An ECT major CAN take GPH 211 to satisfy the arts and literature requirement of the LSP. The course qualifies for a liberal studies program domain that is required by the student's major.
Example 2
- A CS student CAN take GPH 259 to satisfy the Scientific Inquiry (SI)-Quantitative-Lab requirement of LSP because the course is not required by the CS major AND it counts for SI-Lab which is a required domain for CS students.
- A CS student CANNOT take CSC 250 to satisfy SI because, although the course is not required by any of our programs, it qualifies for SI-quantitative (not Lab) which is NOT a required domain for CDM students.
Example 3
- A CS student takes GPH 211 for arts and literature LSP. Although GPH 211 is allowed as an elective even if it is not a 300 level course, the student CANNOT count the course both as satisfying an LSP domain AND as an elective for the CS program.