Spice up your life! 2-Unit Courses for Fall 2016
By Grace Carballo ‘17
If you still have space for 2 more units in your schedule, look no further. The department chairs of a number of programs make a list every semester of “Courses of Interest” for students who aren’t majoring in the field but might find them enjoyable and beneficial for one reason or another.
I myself have already taken 3 off this list, all in the film school, and promptly realized I wanted to minor in Screenwriting as a result. So maybe this will help shape your major/minor decision making process or future career goals or maybe you’ll just have a really interesting 2 unit course this semester and that’s perfectly valid, too!
Whatever the case may be, I’ve taken the liberty of choosing the FIVE COOLEST 2-UNIT COURSES this fall and have listed the rest below, as well, if you don’t trust me or your tastes differ.
GRACE’S TOP FIVE
NUMBER FIVE: INTERACTIVE MEDIA
CTIN 101 Fundamentals of Procedural Media (2 units)
Description: Introduction to the procedural nature of interactive media. Developing proficiency in procedural literacy, reading and creating computational media. (Duplicates credit in former CTIN 400.)
Apparently Pokemon Go is taking the U.S. by storm (and maybe other countries? - haven’t heard a peep about it here in Buenos Aires) so why not learn the basics that could be the building blocks to you inventing the next big thing? I won’t even insist you give me 10% for inspiring you down to go down this road!
NUMBER FOUR: WE COULD BE HEROES
CTPR 340 Creating the Motion Picture Sound Track (2 units)
Description: Techniques and aesthetics for recording production sound, editing dialogue, sound effects, music, Foley and preparing for the mix. For film, television, and other media.
If you’re anything like me (count your blessings), you probably know every lyric to the soundtracks of most of your go-to movies. I think the entirety of my junior high social circle could sing the Juno soundtrack for you if for some reason the volume on your TV stopped working. Music makes the world go round and music makes the films so powerful. I often study to the Pirates of the Caribbean soundtrack or Perks of Being a Wallflower- obviously depending on how intense Im feeling and how high the stakes are. I think this course sounds great (pun intended - pun always intended).
NUMBER THREE- COME SAIL AWAY WITH ME
NAUT 001ax: Deepwater Cruising (2.0 units)
An experiential approach to the sailing ship and seafaring, introducing offshore sailing theory and techniques, navigation and basic oceanography as relevant to seamanship. a: Crew level. Not available for degree credit. Lecture and lab.
Two of my dearest friends took this course together and I, foolishly, did not and have had to live with that, even when they returned from their sail weekend all sun-kissed and windswept and showed me the pictures of their adventure at sea. It should be noted that it’s not all fun and games and you actually will learn something and work in this course, but that, my friend, is sort of a given in higher education. Gone are the days of word searches and busy work and credit for showing up. Gone, but never forgotten.
NUMBER TWO: 3-D IS BETTER THAN 1(-D)!
CTAN 452 Introduction to 3-D Computer Animation (2 units, max 4)
Description: Lecture and laboratory in computer animation: geometric modeling, motion specification, lighting, texture mapping, rendering, compositing, production techniques, systems for computer-synthesized animation.
There were a lot of great courses on the list and at first I overlooked this one because I’m not really into the process behind animation all that, I prefer the instant gratification of watching the finished product. That being said, I thought about the time I went and saw the Scooby Doo movie as a youth and was very impressed by how they had found such a well-trained pup to play the timeless role. As it turns out, he was the work of 3-D animation, acting alongside real live humans. And he would’ve gotten away with it, too, if it wasn’t for Google and my meddling curiosity much later in life. So Scooby Doo is the reason this course made it so high on the list and if that iconic film isn’t studied as part of the class, then I think that’s just a shame.
AND FINALLY-
NUMBER ONE: THE ARTSIEST OF THE ARTSY
CTPR 457 Creating Poetic Cinema (2 units)
Description: An investigation of poetic cinema from four different perspectives: found poetry; applied poetry; poetry as image; and poetry in narrative fiction. Production of short films.
Explores the relationship between poetic cinema and artistic expression — especially the visual arts, literature and music — through the creation of short films. Approaching the poetics of cinema through: found poetry, translating written poetry, cinema AS poetry and the poetic image in narrative cinema.
This course description reminds me of a dream I once had- but better because I’ll actually remember it. I’m probably going to do what I can to at least observe this course the first week or so and maybe go to the screening of the short films. I love the content, I love the thought process behind it, I love picturing cinema school professors discussing its creation. I also think I would love the other people who enroll- it’s a self-selecting bunch of probably wonderful folks with a lot to say and cool ways to say it. A lot of courses put up a good fight - most also in the Production department- but alas, number one goes to Creating Poetic Cinema.
What a time to be alive!
Note that I’ve only included on this longer list those that did not outrightly say they required or recommended courses prior and courses that are two units, no more no less. If you want 1, 3, or 4 unit courses of interest, or additional 2 unit courses that require pre-reqs, check out the link below:
http://classes.usc.edu/term-20163/interest/
And of course, for more information, contact the department directly. They are sorted by department and school below.
School of Architecture
ARCH 106x Workshop in Architecture (2 units)
Description: Introduction to the ways architecture is created and understood, for minors and non-majors. Hands-on discussion and laboratory session with some drawing and model building. Not available for credit to architecture majors.
ARCH 114 Architecture: Culture and Community (2 units)
Description: Introduction to the ways architecture represents aspirations of culture, satisfies practical and spiritual needs, shapes the social and urban environment, and helps preserve the planet.
ARCH 220 The Architect’s Sketchbook (2 units)
Description: The architect’s sketchbook as a portable laboratory for perceiving and documenting space introduces the study of the built environment. On-site sessions develop drawing, observation, and visualization skills.
ARCH 370 Architectural Studies — Expanding the Field (2 units)
Description: Survey of opportunities, specializations, and professions related to architecture provides a resource for professional growth for architecture majors, and introduction to the field for non-majors.
ARCH 421 Digital Architectural Photography (2 units)
Description: Perceiving and documenting the built environment through the perspective and frame of the digital camera. Mastering the basic principles of the digital image through an understanding of frame, light, exposure, color correction, and printing output.
School of Cinematic Arts ANIMATION
CTAN 330 Animation Fundamentals (2 units)
Description: An introduction to the fundamentals of animation, covering such topics as timing, anticipation, reaction, overlapping action, and metamorphosis.
CTAN 410 Audio Design for Animation and Immersive Media (2 units)
Description: Experimental and traditional audio design practices for animation, culminating in an immersive audio project utilizing acoustic design, surround sound, and professional recording and editing tools.
Fundamental principles of traditional and experimental audio design for cinema and new media culminating in a unified immersive audio project.
CTAN 420 Concept Design for Animation (2 units)
Description: Creating characters and environments for animation, live action, and video games.
CTAN 435 Story Art Development (2 units)
Description: Using basic storyboarding techniques to develop a sense of character, plot, and continuity. Technical aspects of developing ideas into films.
CTAN 436 Writing for Animation (2 units)
Description: Workshop exploring concept and structure of long and short form animated films through practical writing exercises.
CTAN 450a Animation Theory and Techniques (2 units)
Description: Methods for creating animation blending traditional techniques with contemporary technologies.
CTAN 451 History of Animation (2 units)
Description: In-depth survey of historical developments, styles, techniques, theory and criticism of animation as an art form.
CTAN 452 Introduction to 3-D Computer Animation (2 units, max 4)
Description: Lecture and laboratory in computer animation: geometric modeling, motion specification, lighting, texture mapping, rendering, compositing, production techniques, systems for computer-synthesized animation.
CTAN 462 Visual Effects (2 units)
Description: Survey of contemporary concepts and approaches to production in the current state of film and video effects work. Digital and traditional methodologies will be covered, with a concentration on digital exercises illustrating modern techniques.
CTAN 485L Pipeline and Character Modeling for Animation (2 units)
Description: Modeling and pipeline integration for 3-D animation props, sets and characters.Recommended preparation: Prior knowledge in Maya preferred.
This class teaches all the necessary skills to model and texture 3-D characters in Maya and ZBrush.
INTERACTIVE MEDIA
CTIN 101 Fundamentals of Procedural Media (2 units)
Description: Introduction to the procedural nature of interactive media. Developing proficiency in procedural literacy, reading and creating computational media. (Duplicates credit in former CTIN 400.)
CTIN 458 Business and Management of Games (2 units)
Description: Overview of current business models in games and interactive media, methods for pitching and getting products funded; copyright and intellectual property.
PRODUCTION
CTPR 288 Originating and Developing Ideas for Film (2 units)
Description: Exercises in observation, imaginative association, visualization, etc., that deepen the creative process, leading to ideas, stories, characters, and images for narrative, documentary, and experimental films.
CTPR 340 Creating the Motion Picture Sound Track (2 units)
Description: Techniques and aesthetics for recording production sound, editing dialogue, sound effects, music, Foley and preparing for the mix. For film, television, and other media.
CTPR 409 Practicum in Television Production (2, 4 units)
Description: Television production: laboratory course covers operating cameras, creating graphics, technical operations, controlling audio and floor-managing live productions. Students plan and produce actual Trojan Vision programs.
CTPR 410 The Movie Business: From Story Concept to Exhibition (2 units)
Description: Examination of the industry from story ideas, through script development, production and exhibition; evaluation of roles played by writers, agents, studio executives, marketing and publicity. Covers the gamut of the movie business, from story concept to film exhibition. Guest speakers and lectures will cover the role of the writer, agent, studio executive, producer, director, marketing, and distribution.
CTPR 422 Makeup for Motion Pictures (2 units)
Description: Lecture-laboratory in makeup relating it to mood of the story and emulsion of the camera stock. Introduction to makeup for film, TV, and theater, exploring glamour, old age, gore, fantasy, and prosthetic techniques. Students learn through lectures, demos, and hands-on workshops.
CTPR 423 Introduction to Special Effects in Cinema (2 units)
Description: Introductory workshop in the aesthetics and practices of special effects, embracing both the classical and contemporary modes. Intro to special effects techniques, cost, and operational characteristics. Hands-on workshop where students experience time and complexities involved with effects/techniques now in popular use industry-wide. Great for aspiring production managers, directors, and camera and effects specialists.
CTPR 425 Production Planning (2 units)
Description: Theory, discussion, and practical application of production planning during preproduction and production of a film. From script to screen: practical application of methods and tools for the scheduling, budgeting, and planning of a film.
CTPR 426 The Production Experience (2 units)
Description: To provide students with basic working knowledge of both the skills of the motion picture set and production operations through classroom lectures and hands-on experience.
Learn the fundamentals of episodic TV drama and participate in the shooting of an episode written and directed by students. Positions available in producing, camera, sound, production design, or editorial.
CTPR 456 Introduction to Art Direction (2 units)
Description: Introduction to computer drafting, set design, rendering and model-making for students with diverse abilities. Guest lecturers, group discussions and hands-on workshop.
CTPR 457 Creating Poetic Cinema (2 units)
Description: An investigation of poetic cinema from four different perspectives: found poetry; applied poetry; poetry as image; and poetry in narrative fiction. Production of short films.
Explores the relationship between poetic cinema and artistic expression — especially the visual arts, literature and music — through the creation of short films. Approaching the poetics of cinema through: found poetry, translating written poetry, cinema AS poetry and the poetic image in narrative cinema.
CTPR 460 Film Business Procedures and Distribution (2 units)
Description: Financing, budgeting, management as applied to films; problems of distribution, including merchandising, cataloging, evaluation, and film library management. Introduces film economics, exhibition, distribution, and production. Budgets, financing, television/non-theatrical and theatrical films, production and distribution agreements, copyright and legal considerations will also be covered.
CTPR 461 Managing Television Stations and Internet Media (2, 4 units)
Description: Managing electronic media, including radio and television stations, broadcast and cable networks, and the Internet.
In a period of unprecedented growth and change in media, students focus on how managers of TV, cable, radio and digital mass media are facing the challenges of the era. The class includes guest speakers, field trips and studies in mass media financing, marketing and history.
CTPR 462 Masters of Directorial Style (2 units)
Description: The study of exceptional directors from different eras with contrasting stylistic approaches, and how these techniques can creatively inform the students own work. Students learn how these films were constructed, what techniques the directors utilized to make them special and how they can creatively inform their own work. Screenings include works by Wes Anderson and Sergio Leone.
CTPR 487 The Recording Studio in Film and Video Production (2 units)
Description: Exploration of the role of the recording studio in professional film and video productions. Emphasis on technical and hardware considerations.
CTPR 496 The Film Industry: Career Challenges and Choices for Women (2 units)
Description: Discusses women’s roles in the entertainment industry and career opportunities available for women in the business, corporate, and creative sectors.
WRITING
CTWR 404 Foundations of Comedy (2 units)
Description: Study of comedy theory and practical applications in film, television, and social media. Lectures and screenings of comedic forms tracing past, present and future.
CTWR 412 Introduction to Screenwriting (2 units)
Description: Introduction to the formal elements of writing the short film.
CTWR 416 Motion Picture Script Analysis (2 units)
Description: Critical analysis of story structure from classic films to contemporary works. Identification of key story concepts and elements of three-act structure.
CTWR 417 Script Coverage and Story Analysis (2 units)
Description: Evaluation of completed scripts prior to their production. Coverage and analysis of scripts as potential properties from the perspective of a production company.
MEDIA ARTS AND PRACTICE
IML 104 Introduction to Digital Studies (2 units)
Description: An introduction to the expressive range of screen languages in their cultural, historical, and technological contexts.
IML 140 Workshop in Multimedia Authoring (2 max 4 units)
Description: Introduction to the expressive potential of multimedia as a critical and creative tool, supplementing traditional forms of academic work.
Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism
JOURNALISM
JOUR 454 Sports Public Relations (2 units)
Description: Introduction to the field of sports information and promotion, including lectures, media assignments, role-playing, and presentations by sports professionals.
JOUR 477 Web Analytics for News and Nonprofit Organizations (2 units)
Description: Introduction to using Web traffic and other audience behavior data to manage Websites and social media for news and nonprofit organizations.
JOUR 486 Multimedia PR Content: Introduction to Digital Design Tools (2 units)
Description: Hands-on lab; producing multimedia content; basic principles of design; tools and techniques to create digital images and layouts.
School of Dramatic Arts
THTR 295 Theatre in America (2 units)
Description: Current state of American theatre, through a study of acting, playwriting, criticism, stage design, lighting and dramatic styles.
See seven dynamic productions both on-campus and at some of Los Angeles amazing theatrical venues. You will gain an intimate understanding of how live theatre is created and how it relates to audiences.
THTR 421 Public Speaking as Performance: A Course for Non-Actors (2 units)
Description: Public speaking approached as performance, using acting techniques to communicate with confidence, clarity and charisma.
THTR 445 Developing Your Speaking Voice (2 units)
Description: Designed to expand the uniqueness of one’s own voice in the areas of pitch, power, clarity, and warmth.
Thornton School of Music COMPOSITION
MUCO 101x Fundamentals of Music Theory (2 units)
Description: An introductory course in music theory required for those majors in need of remedial training, and available to the general student who wishes to develop music writing skills. Not available for credit to B.M. and B.A. music majors. Recommended preparation: ability to read music.
JAZZ STUDIES
MUJZ 150 Beginning Jazz Improvisation (2 units)
Description:Development of beginning improvisational skills including underlying principles of theory, harmony, jazz ear training, and jazz style.
MUJZ 218a Afro-Latin Percussion Instruments (2 units)
Description: Instruction in the performance of percussion instruments associated with African, South American, and Caribbean music traditions, with special emphasis on adaptation to jazz music.
PERFORMANCE (GUITAR)
MPGU 120a Beginning Pop/Rock Guitar (2 units)
Description: Introduction to the performance technique of pop/rock guitar as well as music theory fundamentals, exploring repertoire by artists such as The Beatles and Dave Matthews.
MPGU 120b Beginning Pop/Rock Guitar (2 units)
Description: Introduction to the performance technique of pop/rock guitar as well as music theory fundamentals, exploring repertoire by artists such as The Beatles and Dave Matthews.
MPGU 120c Beginning Pop/Rock Guitar (2 units)
Description: Introduction to the performance technique of pop/rock guitar as well as music theory fundamentals, exploring repertoire by artists such as The Beatles and Dave Matthews.
MPGU 121 Intensive Beginning Pop/Rock Guitar (4 units)
Description: Introduction to the performance technique of pop/rock guitar as well as music theory fundamentals, exploring repertoire by artists such as The Beatles and Dave Matthews.
MPGU 125 Beginning Fingerstyle/Chord Guitar (2 units)
Description: Basic fingerstyle guitar, learned through the study of such pieces as “Greensleeves,” “Malaguena,” and “Minuet” (Bach); song accompaniment patterns and music notation for the beginner.
MPGU 126 Easy Fingerstyle Beatles (2 units)
Description: Techniques of classical guitar applied to the study of five to eight Beatles songs, from “Hey Jude” to “Blackbird.” No guitar or music background required.
PERFORMANCE (KEYBOARD STUDIES)
MPKS 150a Beginning Piano (2 units)
Description: Techniques of performance, note reading, and basic musicianship. Not open to music majors.
PERFORMANCE (POPULAR MUSIC)
MPPM 120 Popular Music Performance I (2 units)
Description: Study of musical elements appropriate to the performance of popular music in a collaborative, interactive environment.
MPPM 240 Drumming Proficiency for the Popular Musician (2 units)
Description: Beginning and elementary instruction in drum set techniques.
PERFORMANCE (STRINGS)
MPST 163 Beginning Harp (2 units, max 8)
Description: Basic instruction in the fundamentals of solo harp playing, note reading, and basic musicianship. Open to music and non-music majors.
PERFORMANCE (VOCAL ARTS)
MPVA 141 Class Voice (2 units, max 4)
Description: Introduction to the fundamental principles of singing: breath control, tone production, diction, and the use of appropriate song material.
MPVA 241 Intermediate Class Voice (2 units, max 4)
Description: Continued development of the fundamentals of singing, diction, and repertoire building. Prerequisite: MPVA 141.
MPVA 402 Musical Theatre Workshop (2 units, max 8)
Description: Stylistic and technical features of dramatic and musical elements involved in performance of American musical and standard operetta repertory; staging of scenes.
SCHOOL OF MUSIC
MUSC 255 Songwriting I (2 units)
Description: Development of musical and lyrical skills, composing, listening, analysis, and critiques of popular original music.
MUSC 423 Classic Rock: Popular Music of the Sixties and Seventies (2 units)
Description: Critical examination of the lyrics, structure, associated mythology, technology, and evolving styles of popular music reflecting the turbulent societal changes during the Sixties and Seventies.
MUSC 424 Iconic Figures of Popular Music (2 units, max 8)
Description: Music, life, recordings, and attendant musical, cultural and political influences of a seminal musician or group in 20th or 21st century popular music.
MUSC 455 Songwriting III: The Performing Songwriter (2 units)
Description: Continuation of Songwriting I and II with emphasis on the development of performance skills of original popular music in preparation for songwriting showcases.
USC PRICE SCHOOL OF PUBLIC POLICY
NAUTICAL SCIENCE
NAUT 001ax: Deepwater Cruising (2.0 units)
An experiential approach to the sailing ship and seafaring, introducing offshore sailing theory and techniques, navigation and basic oceanography as relevant to seamanship. a: Crew level. Not available for degree credit. Lecture and lab.
OCCUPATIONAL SCIENCE AND OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY
OT 220 Lifestyle Design: Introduction to Occupational Therapy (2 units)
Description: Introduction to theoretical concepts concerning the relationship of engagement in activities (occupations) to health and well-being. Application of these perspectives to students’ own lives.
OT 310 Creativity Workshop (2 units)
Description: Theories and practice of the creative process in varied media, genres and occupations. Explores creativity in the arts, sciences, professions, evolution, daily life, and culture.
Explore your creative side while you discover all that you have in common with famous writers, cartoonists, artists, and performers.
OT 312 Creating a Sustainable Lifestyle (2 units)
Description: Scientists and policymakers advocate lifestyle changes as crucial to solving the environmental crisis. Investigation into the development of habits that promote environmental sustainability and personal well-being.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION (check out the Sporty Spice Up Your Life post to see the 1 unit PHED classes, as well)
PHED 160: Stress Management for Healthy Living (2.0 units)
PHED 162: Principles of Athletic Coaching (2.0 units)
PHED 163: Health Coaching (2.0 units)
Hope you find the course you are looking for! Remember, clicking on the course name will take you to more information and you should be sure to check that 1) it fits into your schedule 2) you meet any requirement the course may list and 3) you can afford to pay any additional course fees listed (usually $50 for use of equipment).
Fight on,
Grace Carballo ‘17
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