University of California, Los Angeles School of the Arts and Architecture 33 courses
The undergraduate program begins with the study of basic design elements and processes: form, color, drawing, letterforms and typography, motion, and interactivity. Historical perspectives and social issues are also introduced. At the upper-division level, studio courses explore current uses of interactive media and new directions in visual communication design, including the study of time and motion, as well as virtual form and space in computer-generated environments. Through a balance of courses in theory, criticism, and practice, students develop an understanding of design principles. Most courses are taught as studios of no more than 22 students, which encourages individual growth and fosters a sense of community within the department. The Design | Media Arts major is a designated capstone major. Students are required to complete an advanced project of their own that entails full engagement with the design process. Through their capstone work, students demonstrate their capacities for research, ideation/concept development, creative and design direction, communication strategy, design, production/fabrication, and critical analysis. Capstone courses focus on career choice, and final projects are showcased at the spring senior show.
Preparation for the Major
Complete the following seven courses:
| Code | Course Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| DESMA 8 | Media Histories | 5 |
| DESMA 10 | Design Culture | 5 |
| DESMA 21 | Drawing and Color | 4 |
| DESMA 22 | Form | 4 |
| DESMA 24 | Motion | 4 |
| DESMA 25 | Typography | 4 |
| DESMA 28 | Interactivity | 4 |
The Major
Complete 12 upper-division courses as follows:
The Major: Design|Media Arts Core Lecture Courses (10 Units)
Complete the following two courses:
| Code | Course Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| DESMA 101 | Media Arts: Introduction | 5 |
| DESMA 104 | Design Futures | 5 |
The Major: Design|Media Arts Core Studio Courses (44-45 units)
Select nine courses from the following. Design|Media Arts 160 requires a substitution request from the student services office.
The Major: Capstone
Complete the following course:
| Code | Course Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| DESMA 159 | Capstone Senior Project in Design Media Arts | 5 |
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