VIZA - Visualization
VIZA 611 Concepts of Visual Communications I
Credits 3.
2 Lecture Hours.
2 Lab Hours.
Theory and practice of visual communication using a variety of media to explore perception, form-making, color, and historic and personal sources of creativity. Prerequisite: Graduate classification in visualization or approval of instructor.
VIZA 612 Concepts of Visual Communications II
Credits 3.
2 Lecture Hours.
2 Lab Hours.
Exploration of perception, vision and self-expression for communication through visual images; image-making processes include conventional and digital media. Prerequisite: Graduate classification or approval of instructor.
VIZA 613 3-D Modeling and Animation
Credits 3.
2 Lecture Hours.
2 Lab Hours.
Principles of 3-D computer animation with an emphasis in aesthetics and techniques for 3-D modeling, color, texture, lighting, motion control and rendering. Prerequisite: Graduate classification in Visualization or approval of instructor.
VIZA 614 Form/Installation/Environment
Credits 3.
2 Lecture Hours.
3 Lab Hours.
Aesthetic and functional concerns involving public spaces; interdisciplinary investigation of audible, visual and form potential of environmental space utilizing models and electronic imaging technology; ethical responsibilities regarding the environment and its use. Prerequisite: Graduate classification or approval of instructor.
VIZA 615 Computer Animation
Credits 4.
3 Lecture Hours.
2 Lab Hours.
Intermediate level computer animation--focusing on production of three dimensional computer generated animation which may or may not integrate video and photographic elements. Prerequisite: VIZA 613 or approval of instructor.
VIZA 616 Rendering and Shading
Credits 3.
2 Lecture Hours.
2 Lab Hours.
Exploration of advanced rendering and shading techniques for the attainment of a desired visual effect; topics may include shading languages, attainment of visual realism, integration of rendering and modeling tools, and non-photorealistic rendering. Prerequisite: VIZA 613 or approval of instructor.
VIZA 617 Advanced Animation
Credits 3.
2 Lecture Hours.
2 Lab Hours.
Development of advanced three-dimensional computer animation with emphasis on successful storytelling and visual communication; may include story development, expressive character design, motivation, acting, speech animation, choreography, stage lighting, storyboards, soundtracks, story reels, production efficiency, and successive refinement. Prerequisite: VIZA 613 or VIZA 615; or approval of instructor.
VIZA 618 Facial Modeling and Animation
Credits 3.
2 Lecture Hours.
2 Lab Hours.
Design and analysis of articulated 3D models for creating facial animation; includes designing expressive 3D faces, exaggerations, facial expressions and facial animation techniques. Prerequisite: VIZA 613 or approval of instructor.
VIZA 619 Motion Capture Animation
Credits 3.
2 Lecture Hours.
2 Lab Hours.
Overview of motion capture technology, history, and techniques; application of motion-captured data to animate digital characters and props, including capture, cleaning and retargeting data for use. Prerequisites: VIZA 613 or VIZA 615; or approval of instructor.
VIZA 621 Virtual and Tangible Sculpture
Credits 3.
2 Lecture Hours.
2 Lab Hours.
Study in digital modeling in virtual and physical space with emphasis on digital modeling and sculpting; digital fabrication processes in combination with traditional and experimental processes; topics covered may include digital sculpting, digital modeling, preparing designs for fabrication, post-processing of digitally fabricated parts, and the integration of traditional sculpting processes with digital fabrication processes. Prerequisites: Graduate classification in Visualization or approval of instructor.
VIZA 622 Design Communications I
Credits 3.
2 Lecture Hours.
2 Lab Hours.
Theory and practice of visual communication employing a variety of digital and conventional media; emphasis on creating effective, self-expressive images employing the combined use of a variety of media. Prerequisites: VIZA 465 or VIZA 611 or equivalent; graduate classification or approval of instructor.
VIZA 623 Design Communication II
Credits 3.
1 Lecture Hour.
4 Lab Hours.
Development of concepts and forms in visual communications; organization of complex problems in production; synthesis of skills, information tools and methodology. Prerequisite: VIZA 622 or approval of instructor.
VIZA 624 Interactive Virtual Environments
Credits 3.
3 Lecture Hours.
Languages and techniques useful for the creation of real time virtual environments; definition of formal scene description structures; modeling and transformation techniques; simulation techniques; behaviors and message passing; user interaction and animation; multi-user environments; creating virtual interfaces; scripting techniques. Prerequisites: Graduate classification in visualization or approval of instructor.
VIZA 625 Multi-Media Web Design
Credits 3.
2 Lecture Hours.
2 Lab Hours.
Examination of aesthetic, narrative, technical strategies; multi-media content on the web; methods of integrating imagery, animation, sound; non-linear multi-media narration. Application of multi-media techniques for navigation, interaction, animation, vector drawing, video, audio. Prerequisite: Graduate classification in visualization or approval of instructor.
VIZA 626 Generative Art and Design
Credits 3.
1 Lecture Hour.
4 Lab Hours.
Theory and creative application of generative systems in studio art practice; chance based systems include random numbers and noise; biologically inspired systems include genetic algorithms, L-systems, and artificial life; systems drawn from complexity theory include, cellular automata, fractals, finite state machines, catastrophe theory, reaction diffusion systems, and chaos. May be taken 2 times for credit. Prerequisite: Graduate classification in visualization or approval of instructor.
VIZA 627 Design Communication III
Credits 3.
2 Lecture Hours.
2 Lab Hours.
Advanced methods in video, photography and/or animation production; application of image strategies used in contemporary media. May be taken twice. Prerequisites: VIZA 613 or VIZA 622 or VIZA 643; approval of instructor.
VIZA 628 Computational Design
Credits 3.
2 Lecture Hours.
2 Lab Hours.
Introduction to visual programming, otherwise known as node-based programming; exploration of static and generative forms of algorithmic design based on single operation and/or time; topics include designing objects and motion graphics using node-based mesh modeling, databases, image processing, and physics simulations. Prerequisites: Graduate classification or approval of instructor.
VIZA 629 Digital Media: Inspiration and Process
Credits 3.
2 Lecture Hours.
2 Lab Hours.
Exploration of artwork and literature that has informed contemporary creativity provides a broad basis for discovery through reading, writing, studio projects; demonstrate a knowledge of creative strategies including, but not limited to mapping, database, allegory, sampling, and generative systems. Prerequisite: Graduate classification or approval of instructor.
VIZA 630 Contemporary Art Seminar I
Credits 3.
3 Other Hours.
Exploration of theoretical and historical ideas that have shaped contemporary art practices, consideration of the changing roles of art in society, its production, presentation, institutions, and global contexts. Prerequisites: Graduate classification and enrollment in the MFA in visualization program or approval of instructor.
VIZA 631 Contemporary Art Seminar II
Credits 3.
0 Lecture Hours.
0 Lab Hours.
3 Other Hours.
Exploration of theoretical and historical ideas that have shaped contemporary art practices, consideration of the changing roles of art in society, its production, presentation, institutions, and global contexts. Prerequisites: VIZA 630 or approval of instructor.
VIZA 638 Advanced Game Design
Credits 3.
2 Lecture Hours.
2 Lab Hours.
Emphasis on the application of game mechanics for different genres of games; developing mechanics for mobile, virtual reality (VR), computers (PC), and console games; prototyping while also deeply engaging in the subject from an analytical perspective. Prerequisites: Working knowledge of a game engine and game design principles; graduate classification.
VIZA 641 Visual Storytelling
Credits 3.
2 Lecture Hours.
2 Lab Hours.
Exploration of visual storytelling techniques for the attainment of desired storytelling effects; includes character development, using shots, camera, lights, props and background elements, master plots, one and multi-panel cartoons, comics, storyboards, animatics and storyreels. Prerequisite: Graduate classification or approval of instructor.
VIZA 643 Time Based Media I
Credits 3.
2 Lecture Hours.
2 Lab Hours.
Visual language and cinematic structure explored through time based projects; historical, critical, and practical exploration of the interaction of camera, lighting, sound, editing, special effects, and mis en scene. Prerequisites: Graduate classification or approval of instructor.
VIZA 644 Time Based Media II
Credits 3.
1 Lecture Hour.
4 Lab Hours.
Advanced theory and production of art forms with motion, tempo, sequencing and duration as integral components; projects may include in-depth creation using a single medium or may emphasize a combination of media such as video, audio, networked communication, animation, performance or installation. May be taken twice. Prerequisite: VIZA 643 or approval of instructor.
VIZA 645 Figure Drawing for Narrative and Concept Art
Credits 3.
2 Lecture Hours.
2 Lab Hours.
Exploration of contemporary drawing practices and theory as they relate to visual narrative storytelling; investigation into the relationship of drawing with digital media including animation, photography and other technologies; development of personal methods, techniques, and thematic content; creation of an efficient workflow and visual literacy. Prerequisites: Graduate classification or approval of instructor.
VIZA 647 Color Photography
Credits 3.
1 Lecture Hour.
4 Lab Hours.
Theory and practice of still color photography; appropriate uses of color processes related to digital photography and other graphic media; exploration of vision through the photographic image as a medium of self expression. May be taken two times for credit. Prerequisite: Graduate classification or approval of instructor.
VIZA 652 Computing for Visualization I
Credits 3.
2 Lecture Hours.
2 Lab Hours.
Introduction to computing and mathematical concepts in computer graphics for graduate students in Visualization; hands-on visually oriented programming assignments; introduction to scripting in a professional animation package and emphasis on problem solving and debugging. Prerequisites: Graduate classification.
VIZA 653 Computing for Visualization II
Credits 3.
2 Lecture Hours.
2 Lab Hours.
Procedural and mathematical principles underlying computer programming with an emphasis on real-time interaction with visual displays; linear algebra as applied to manipulating digital images, parametric and implicit shapes. Prerequisites: Graduate classification in Visualization; VIZA 652, or approval of instructor.
VIZA 654/CSCE 646 Digital Image
Credits 3.
2 Lecture Hours.
2 Lab Hours.
Tools and techniques for generation, handling and analysis of two dimensional digital images; image representation and storage; display, media conversion, painting and drawing; warping; color space operations, enhancement, filtering and manipulation. Prerequisite: Graduate classification or approval of instructor. Cross Listing: CSCE 646/VIZA 654.
VIZA 655 Principles and Practices in Digital Twin Technology
Credits 3.
2 Lecture Hours.
2 Lab Hours.
Comprehensive introduction to digital twins and the technologies to make them possible; focus on tools, techniques and interfaces of digital twins, alongside applied Internet of Things (IOT) methodologies. Prerequisites: Graduate classification or approval of instructor.
VIZA 656/CSCE 647 Image Synthesis
Credits 3.
2 Lecture Hours.
2 Lab Hours.
Principles of image synthesis from 3-D scene descriptions; topics may include local and global illumination, shading, shadow determination, hidden surface elimination, texturing, raster graphics algorithms, transformations and projections. Prerequisites: Graduate classification in Visualization; VIZA 652, or approval of instructor. Cross Listing: CSCE 647/VIZA 656.
VIZA 657/CSCE 648 Computer Aided Sculpting
Credits 3.
2 Lecture Hours.
3 Lab Hours.
Mathematical and artistic principles of 3-D modeling and sculpting; includes proportions, skeletal foundation, expression and posture, line of action; curves, surfaces and volumes, interpolation and approximation, parametric and rational parametric polynomials, constructive solid geometry, and implicit representations. Prerequisite: Approval of instructor. Cross Listing: CSCE 648/VIZA 657.
VIZA 658 Experimental Visual Techniques
Credits 3.
2 Lecture Hours.
2 Lab Hours.
Theory and experimental techniques for computer graphics, animation, video, and other forms of electronic visualization including innovative hardware and software systems, artificial life, virtual reality, volume methods and hypermedia. May be taken twice. Prerequisite: Graduate classification or approval of instructor.
VIZA 659/CSCE 649 Physically-Based Modeling
Credits 3.
2 Lecture Hours.
2 Lab Hours.
Physical simulation as used in choreography, geometric modeling, and the creation of special effects in computer graphics; a variety of problems and techniques are explored which may include particle-methods, modeling and simulation of flexible materials, kinematics and constraint systems. Prerequisite: Approval of instructor. Cross Listing: CSCE 649/VIZA 659.
VIZA 661 Interaction Design
Credits 3.
3 Lecture Hours.
Concepts, theories and methods in interaction design and interaction; dimensions of interaction design; data gathering methods and evaluation; task analysis; aesthetics and the sensory experience; prototyping, and workflow. Prerequisites: Graduate classification or approval of instructor.
VIZA 662 Physical Computing for Art and Design
Credits 3.
1 Lecture Hour.
4 Lab Hours.
Theory and creative application of digital technology in studio art and design practice to create dynamic environments, interactive objects, and tangible interfaces in the physical world; technologies involved include microcontrollers, basic electronics, sensors, actuators, motors, wireless and internet data communication, light, sound, and wearable devices. May be taken 2 times for credit. Prerequisites: Graduate classification in Visualization or approval of instructor.
VIZA 665 Digital Compositing
Credits 3.
2 Lecture Hours.
2 Lab Hours.
Principles of digital compositing including image based lighting and modeling, camera calibration, shape reconstruction, reconstruction of transparency and specularity and digital compositing of computer generated animations with video images. Prerequisites: VIZA 613 or approval of instructor.
VIZA 670/CSCE 620 Computational Geometry
Credits 3.
3 Lecture Hours.
Design and analysis of algorithms for solving geometrical problems; includes convex hull problems, Voronoi diagrams, range searching and proximity problems. Prerequisite: CSCE 311 or approval of instructor. Cross Listing: CSCE 620/VIZA 670.
VIZA 671 Generative Artificial Intelligence for Visual Data
Credits 3.
2 Lecture Hours.
2 Lab Hours.
Comprehensive introduction to deep learning-based generative techniques and models for generating, synthesizing, and manipulating visual data; establishment of a sequence of concepts that will develop mastery through real-world hands-on projects; survey of numerous applications in visualization, data science, computer science, and the arts; aimed at interest in data science, computer science, and related engineering programs. Prerequisites: Graduate classification; two semesters of calculus, linear algebra, and Python programming recommended.
VIZA 672/CSCE 641 Computer Graphics
Credits 3.
3 Lecture Hours.
Representation of 3-dimensional objects, including polyhedral objects, curved surfaces, volumetric representations and CSG models; techniques for hidden surface/edge removal and volume rendering; illumination and shading; antialiasing; ray tracing; radiosity; animation; practical experience with state-of-the-art graphics hardware and software. Prerequisite: CSCE 441 or approval of instructor. Cross Listing: CSCE 641/VIZA 672.
VIZA 673/CSCE 643 Robotics Programming
Credits 3.
3 Lecture Hours.
Manipulator dynamics, position control, hybrid position/force control, and impedance controls; advanced topics in manipulator motion planning, assembly planning and grasp planning; cell decomposition; retraction; back projection; hypothesize-and-test; and potential field methods; subassembly stability; task-level and fine motion planning; grasp stability; grasp synthesis; dexterous manipulation. Prerequisite: CSCE 452 or approval of instructor. Cross Listing: CSCE 643.
VIZA 675/CSCE 645 Geometric Modeling
Credits 3.
3 Lecture Hours.
Geometric and solid modeling concepts, Freeform curves and surfaces (splines and Bezier) with their relational, intersectional and global mathematic properties; parametric representation of solids, topology of closed curved surfaces, boundary concepts and Boolean/Euler operators; construction and display of curves and surfaces, and solid models. Prerequisites: CSCE 441 and CSCE 442 or equivalent. Cross Listing: CSCE 645/VIZA 675.
VIZA 676/CSCE 679 Data Visualization
Credits 3.
3 Lecture Hours.
Visual representation and design of data and information; 3D visualization, infographics, data narratives, principles of visual data encoding, and interaction techniques. Prerequisites: Graduate classification or approval of instructor. Cross Listing: CSCE 679/VIZA 676.
VIZA 677/CSCE 650 Virtual Reality
Credits 3.
2 Lecture Hours.
2 Lab Hours.
Theory and practice of virtual reality (VR); interactive 3D virtual environments, immersive technology, perceptual realism, and embodied interaction experience; overview of VR with topics including input devices, output devices, 3D interaction techniques, augmented reality, the role of realism in VR, navigation techniques, design guidelines, and evaluation methods; hands-on experience designing VR experiences emphasizing application, demonstration, or research purposes. Prerequisites: Graduate classification or approval of instructor. Cross Listing: CSCE 650/VIZA 677.
VIZA 678 Augmented Reality
Credits 3.
2 Lecture Hours.
2 Lab Hours.
Introductory, hands-on experience to Augmented Reality technologies; fundamental techniques, design and implementation of AR through applied user experience. Prerequisites: Graduate classification or approval or instructor.
VIZA 679 Advanced Topics in Physically Based Modeling
Credits 3.
2 Lecture Hours.
2 Lab Hours.
Current research and advanced methods in choreographing motion for animation using a physics-based approach; mainstream research literature in animation; theoretical and methodological topics addressed, through both study and implementation. May be taken twice. Prerequisite: Graduate classification or approval of instructor.
VIZA 680 Professional Practice in Visualization
Credits 3.
3 Lecture Hours.
Preparation of a portfolio, creating an internet presence, use of social media, interviews, negotiation, business practices, and fundamentals of teaching; professional practice in pursuit of career paths for the Master of Fine Arts in Visualization. Prerequisites: Graduate classification in visualization or approval of instructor.
VIZA 681 Seminar
Credit 1.
1 Lecture Hour.
Survey of visualization-related disciplines, theories, methods, facilities and resources; reports and discussion of current works in progress; review of selected published scholarly articles; presentations on graduate pedagogy and teaching methodology.
VIZA 682 Graduate Capstone
Credits 2.
2 Lecture Hours.
1 Lab Hour.
Integration of core methodologies in a focused research problem and/or projects in visualization; communication of research proposal and results; applied documentation of the final project or body of work reflecting aesthetic sophistication and technical expertise and applied design. Prerequisites: Graduate classification.
VIZA 684 Professional Internship
Credits 3.
3 Lecture Hours.
Practical experience in a studio/museum/gallery setting working with allied professionals; minimum fifteen week internship with a minimum of 600 hours continuous employment; departmental pre-approval through the departmental internship coordinator required; post approval evaluation conducted following the internship. May not be repeated for credit.
VIZA 685 Directed Studies
Credits 1 to 6.
1 to 6 Other Hours.
Individual problems involving application of theory and practice in Visualization. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisites: Approval of instructor and department head.
VIZA 688 Graduate Studio
Credits 3.
2 Lecture Hours.
2 Lab Hours.
Focus on individual creative research and practice, precisely aimed at examining the conceptual, aesthetic and technical challenges that emerge from artistic creation; one-on-one instruction, group discussion, critique, studio visits from guest artists, and dedicated studio time. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisites: Graduate classification and enrollment in Masters of Fine Art in Visualization or approval of instructor.
VIZA 689 Special Topics in...
Credits 1 to 4.
1 to 4 Lecture Hours.
0 to 4 Lab Hours.
Selected topics in an identified field of design communication and/or electronic media. May be repeated for credit.
VIZA 691 Research
Credits 1 to 23.
1 to 23 Other Hours.
Research for preparation of MS thesis. Prerequisites: Graduate classification in visualization and approval of instructor.
VIZA 693 Professional Study
Credits 1 to 9.
1 to 9 Other Hours.
Research and writing combined with MFA studio projects; prepare and present a public exhibition of a final body of work; submit a related scholarly journal paper as approved by the committee chair. May be repeated for credit. Prerequisites: Graduate classification in visualization and approval of instructor.