Courses of Interest
The courses listed in this section have been chosen by the designated departments as having special interest for students who are not majoring in that particular subject but who might find courses in that discipline both enjoyable and beneficial. For more information, contact the department directly.
- USC Roski School of Art and Design (ART, CRIT)
- USC Iovine and Young Academy (ACAD)
- USC School of Architecture (ARCH)
- USC Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences (CHEM)
- USC School of Cinematic Arts (CTAN, CTCS, CTIN, CTPR, CTWR, IML)
- USC Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism (JOUR, PR)
- USC School of Dramatic Arts (THTR)
- USC Thornton School of Music (MUCO, MUJZ, MUEN, MUHL, MUIN, MTEC, MPGU, MPKS, MPPM, MPST, MPVA, MUSC)
- USC Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy (OT)
- USC School of Pharmacy (RXRS)
Roski School of Art and Design
ART
ART 110 Drawing for Art and Design (4 units)
Description: An introduction to drawing, both skill and perception oriented, as the basic tool for all the visual arts and design. Duplicates Credit in former FADW 101
ART 120 Painting I (4 units)
Description: Practical introduction to oil and acrylic pigments, painting equipment, processes, and media. Primary experience in: color, composition and perception through representational and abstract painting. Duplicates Credit in former FAPT 105
ART 130 Ceramics (4 units)
Description: Practical and theoretical exploration of the nature of surface, form, volume and mass as fundamental elements of clay sculpture and the ceramic object. Duplicates Credit in former FACE 112
ART 140 Sculpture I (4 units)
Description: Practical and theoretical introduction to sculpture as dimensional manipulation. Primary exploration of form, mass, gravity, surface, structure and associative recognition in three-dimensional art. Duplicates Credit in former FASC 106
ART 142 Modeling and Mold Making (2 units)
Description: Introduction to plaster mold making using clay and wax for both ceramics and sculpture. Exploration of various casting materials. Duplicates Credit in former FASC 136
ART 150 Introduction to Photography (4 units)
Description: Introduction to the practice of photographic image-making within fine arts. Emphasis on developing technical skills in relation to personal vision. Work in black and white. Duplicates Credit in former FAPH 209
ART 151 Digital Photography (4 units)
Description: An introductory course exploring the processes and practices of digital capture, imaging and printing, from web-based image posting to large-scale printing. Duplicates Credit in former FAIN 210
ART 260 Video and Time-based Media (4 units)
Description: An introductory course exploring contemporary processes and practices of video experimentation including the camera, desktop production, and editing. Experimentation with multiple modes of execution, presentation, and distribution. Duplicates Credit in former FAIN 220
ART 312 Comics Project Comics Project (4 units)
Description: All aspects of comics will be covered, from writing and composition to inking and marketing through the production of an individual 15-page comic creation.
Recommended Preparation: Any drawing, graphic design or creative writing course
ART 361 Internet Studio and Online Experimentation (4 units)
Description: A technically and conceptually intensive studio exploring contemporary processes and practices of Internet art and online expression. Duplicates Credit in former FAIN 315
ART 362 Ideas in Intermedia (4 units)
Description: An examination of the impact of digital media on contemporary culture, with attention to a particular, changing topic each semester. Duplicates Credit in former FAIN 330
ART 370 Printmaking (4 units)
Description: Introductory course in various printmaking techniques; necessary skills and inherent expressive qualities of different printmaking methods are explored. Duplicates Credit in former FAPR 311
ART 499 Special Topics (2, 3, 4 units)
Description: Comprehensive exploration of particular aspects of visual art. Duplicates Credit in former FA 499
School of Art and Design (Critical Studies)
CRIT
CRIT 430 Undergrounds and Avant-Gardes in Film and Visual Culture (4 units)
Description: Study of theories of critique or resistance in art and cultural studies, particularly in relation to developments in contemporary art, design, and/or popular culture.
Recommended Preparation: CRIT 150gp, CRIT 160g, CRIT 350gw or permission of instructor
USC Iovine and Young Academy
ARTS, TECHNOLOGY AND THE BUSINESS OF INNOVATION
ACAD 200 Advanced Sound and Audio (4 units)
Description: An in-depth study of sound, acoustics, psychoacoustics, and the standard components of the audio signal chain, including microphones, mixers, interfaces, signal processors, amplifiers, loudspeakers, and audio-distribution systems. Recommended preparation: ACAD 180
The class delves into the worlds of sounds, acoustics, psychoacoustics, and audio equipment, and is the perfect entrée for those wishing to work with sound in some manner.
Professor: Brian Shepard
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 304x Intensive Survey: Prehistory to the Present (4 units)
Description: An intensive historical overview of architecture from prehistory to the present, emphasizing interrelationships of various global cultures and how social considerations were translated into form. Not available for credit to architecture majors.
ARCH 306m Shelter (4 units)
Description: Investigation of issues, processes, and roles of individuals, groups and communities in relation to present and future shelter needs and aspirations.
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.
ARCH 422L Architectural Photography – Film and Digital (3 units)
Description: See how light alters the visual impact of architectural forms; master high-resolution images both with film and digital; become a professional image developer/processor utilizing photographic software.
ARCH 442m Women’s Spaces in History: “Hussies,” “Harems,” and “Housewives” (4 units)
Description: Methods for studying patterns of spatial differentiation of women throughout history from home to city, embodied in gender specific language and gendered spaces.
ARCH 481 Furniture Design (3 units)
Description: An investigation into 20th century furniture design and its relationships to architecture, art and design.
ARCH 507 Theories of Computer Technology (3 units)
Description: Fundamental theories and meanings of computation as a technique in architectural design.
ARCH 519 Sustainability in the Environment: Infrastructures, Urban Landscapes, and Buildings (3 units)
Description: Methodologies and exercises on contextual design and environmentally sound technologies (EST’s) applications for the sustainability of urban infrastructures, operative landscapes, and building integration in the urban system.
ARCH 527 Case Studies: The Development of Urban Housing (2 units)
Description: An exploration of the various elements and stages of the housing development process. Recommended preparation: a preliminary understanding of real estate or housing.
ARCH 531 The Natural Landscape (3 units)
Description: Lectures, laboratory exercises and field trips introducing basic knowledge of the continually transforming landscape as a base for human settlement.
ARCH 549 Fundamentals of Heritage Conservation (3 units)
Description: Concepts and strategies for conservation of significant elements of the built environment: buildings, sites and communities as revealed by readings, site visits, and case studies.
ARCH 553 History of American Architecture and Urbanism (3 units)
Description: History of American architecture and urbanism from prehistory to World War II examined in relation to European influences and indigenous developments.
ARCH 557 Sustainable Conservation of the Historic Built Environment (2 units)
Description: Analysis of the intersection between “green building” and historic resources with an emphasis on stewardship and sustainability.
Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences
CHEMISTRY
CHEM 203Lxg AIDS Drug Discovery and Development (4 units)
Description: Scientific principles underlying molecular approaches to diagnosis and treatment of diseases, using specific models within a societal (business, legal, ethical) context. Not available for major credit.
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 443L Character Development for 3-D Animation and Games (2 units, max 4)
Description: Development, modeling, and animation with an emphasis on character setup features: rigging, skeletons, deformers, and scripting. Applying principles of traditional animation to 3-D character rig/puppet. Prerequisite: CTAN 452.
CTAN 448 Introduction to Film Graphics — Animation (4 units)
Description: An introduction to methods for creating analog animation through experimentation with imagery, concepts and materials. Emphasis on basic timing principles and hands-on techniques.
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 455L Organic Modeling for Animation (2 units)
Description: The art of digital sculpting for animated characters, with visual effects integration. Recommended preparation: CTAN 452 or CTAN 462.
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 464L Digital Lighting and Rendering (2 units)
Description: Concepts, tools and techniques used to create cinematic lighting and rendering in computer-generated imagery (CGI). Prerequisite: CTAN 452 or CTAN 462.
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.
CTAN 502L Experiments in Immersive Design (2 units)
Description: An in-depth exploration of aesthetics and techniques involved in the conceptualization, design and creation of immersive media and stereoscopic imaging. (Duplicates credit in former CTAN 502a)
Review of techniques and aesthetic issues pertinent to immersive virtual reality and stereoscopic animation. Students create short projects utilizing emerging media formats: IMAX cinema, Fulldome cinema, cinematic virtual reality.
CTAN 504 Creative Production in Virtual Reality (2 units)
Description: A creative studio course in producing both a linear cinematic virtual reality short film and associated real-time immersive experience.
CTAN 525 Gesture Movement (2 units)
Description: The concepts of animation performance, body and facial gesture, and the emotional and psychological resonance through cinematic arts.
CTAN 550 Stop Motion Puppet and Set Design (2 units)
Description: Puppet and set design for stop motion animation while providing guidance on armature rigs that allow the character to be animated effectively.
CTAN 563 Advanced Computer Animation (2 units)
Description: Description: Investigation of advanced computer techniques related to character representation and various types of algorithmically defined animation produced on either film or videotape. Prerequisite: CTAN 452.
CTAN 564L Motion Capture Fundamentals (2 units)
Description: Fundamental principles of motion capture technology explored while working through a structured series of assignments based around performance, gesture and motion. Prerequisite: CTAN 452 or CTAN 462.
CRITICAL STUDIES
CTCS 190g Introduction to Cinema (4 units)
Description: Gateway to the majors and minors in cinematic art. Technique, aesthetics, criticism, and social implications of cinema. Lectures accompanied by screenings of appropriate films.
CTCS 200 History of the International Cinema I (4 units)
Description: The development of international cinema from its beginnings to World War II. Lectures, screenings, and discussions.
CTCS 402 Practicum in Film/Television Criticism (4 units, max 8)
Description: Exercise in writing film and television criticism using new and classic films and television programs.
CTCS 403 Studies in National and Regional Media (4 units, max 8)
Description: Detailed investigation of traditions, achievements, and trends of film and/or electronic media in a particular country or region.
CTCS 412 Gender, Sexuality and Media (4 units, max 8)
Description: Examines how gender and sexuality are figured in cinema and television with an emphasis on the development of feminist media theory.
An examination of how media informs our understandings of race, gender and sexuality and how theories of race, gender and sexuality can influence our understanding of media. Students are expected to be open and comfortable with discussing a wide range of representations of race, gender and sexuality.
CTCS 464 Film and/or Television Genres (4 units)
Description: Description: Rigorous examination of film and/or television genres: history, aesthetics, cultural context, social significance, and critical methodologies.
CTCS 466 Television Symposium (4 units)
Description: Description: Lectures and readings on creative problems in the motion picture industry; current films; interviews with visiting producers, directors, writers, performers. Each week students watch special movie sneak previews, followed by Q & As with the teams behind the films, including directors, writers, producers, and actors. Taught by film critic Leonard Maltin, guests have included Damien Chazelle, JJ Abrams, James Franco, Ryan Coogler, Marion Cotillard, and Judd Apatow.
Professor: Leonard Maltin
CTCS 467 Television Symposium (4 units)
Description: Description: Lectures and readings on creative problems in the television industry; study of current and historical trends, interviews with producers, directors, writers and performers.
Each week students meet with current TV showrunners for Q & As about writing and producing their shows. Recent guests include: Cheo Coker (Marvel’s Luke Cage), Ilene Chaiken (Empire), Noah Hawley (Fargo), Conan O’Brian (Conan), Scott Alexander and Larry Karaszewski (The People vs O.J. Simpson) and Ted Sarandos (Netflix).
Professor: Mary McNamara
CTCS 469 Film and/or Television Style Analysis (4 units)
Description: Intensive study of the style of an auteur, studio, film or television making mode in terms of thematic and formal properties and their influences upon the art of film.
CTCS 482 Transmedia Entertainment (4 units)
Description: An examination of transmedia, or cross-platform, entertainment: commercial and grassroots texts, theoretical framework, historical context, and commercial projects. Developing transmedia strategies for existing media properties.
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.)
This course is not focused on learning a specific programming language, but on helping the future game designer, 3-D modeler, interactive writer, or software engineer become procedurally literate.
CTIN 190 Introduction to Interactive Entertainment (4 units)
Description: Critical vocabulary and historical perspectives on interactive entertainment; students articulate their own ideas, while wrestling with the larger conceptual issues at play within the field. (Duplicates credit in former CTIN 309.)
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.
Students will study and design an original social game using leading industry design methodologies. Learn the fundamentals of leveraging web services for online social experience.
CTIN 488 Game Design Workshop (4 units)
Description: An introduction to making games. Students will explore the principles of game design through the entirely analog creation of card, board and tabletop games. Recommended preparation: CTIN 190.
The purpose of this workshop is to examine models and strategies for creating games that are based in solid play mechanics. Students will experience the fundamentals of game design through the study of classic games, as well as design their own games and playtest/critique the games of others.
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 327 Motion Picture Camera (3 units)
Description: Use of high definition motion picture equipment to explore the fundamentals of shot design, movement and lighting. In class group projects.
Principles of black-and-white and color cinematography. Individual projects. The magic of creating images on film from using cameras, lenses, and filters to photographic processes and the role of the cinematographer in interpreting story.
CTPR 335 Motion Picture Editing (3 units)
Description: Theory, techniques, and practices in picture editing; use of standard editing equipment; individual projects.
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 371 Directing for Television (4 units)
Description: Preparation of director’s preproduction blockout; study of direction for live, tape, and film production, for both dramatic and informational television.
Class focuses on the preparations needed for directing in TV. Students will work in teams creating short scenes in various formats, including traditional episodic and situational comedy. The directorial role as production leader and visionary is emphasized.
CTPR 385 Colloquium: Motion Picture Production Techniques (4 units)
Description: Basic procedures and techniques applicable to production of all types of films; demonstration by production of a short film from conception to completion.
Motion picture production from writing of the script to planning, shooting, and completion of a movie. The class will write, direct, and shoot a digital video.
CTPR 386 Art and Industry of the Theatrical Film (4 units)
Description: Detailed analysis of one theatrical film from conception through critical reception to develop an understanding of motion pictures as art, craft, and industry.
Examines aspects of filmmaking with an in-depth study of all facets – screenplay to completion; the anatomy of a film. A major current film is examined in detail and guest speakers involved in the making of the film describe each phase of production. Films previously studied include “The Avengers” and “The Sessions.”
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 454 Acting for Film and Television (4 units)
Description: Intensive examination of skills and techniques necessary for successful performances in film and television. Practical application through in-class exercises and assigned projects.
Learn and apply prominent theories of performance and how they relate to film and television. Students gain understanding of the tools of performance, as derived from the stage, and how they translate to film and television.
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, 4 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 470 Practicum in On-screen Direction of Actors (4 units)
Description: Concentration on the basic skills in working with actors from a director’s point of view.
Focuses on the relationship between a director and actor. Students will learn to break down scripts from the actor’s point of view and give the director an understanding of the process an actor has to go through to achieve the emotional elements that the director would like to create.
CTPR 474 Documentary Production (4 units)
Description: Pairs produce, direct, shoot, and edit a short documentary on a subject of their choice. Finished projects will be suitable for broadcast/festivals. Students are encouraged to form pairs before class; individual students form partnerships at the beginning of the term. Students must come prepared with two to three documentary ideas. Finished films will be approximately fifteen minutes in length.
CTPR 484 Advanced Multi-Camera Television Workshop (4 units)
Description: Exercises and practical application for writing and producing a multi-camera television project. Special attention to the development of the sitcom. Recommended preparation: CTPR 371 required for students who wish to direct a sitcom.
The Witt-Thomas-Harris Endowed Advanced Multi-Camera Television Workshop. Exercises and practical application for producing/directing/editing a half-hour television project. Recommended preparation: CTPR 371, CTPR 476, CTPR 523, CTPR 532/comedy for students who wish to direct and CTPR 310 or CTPR 335 for students who wish to edit. Offered in conjunction with CTWR 487 Staff Writing the Multi-Camera Television Series.
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 womens’ roles in the entertainment industry and career opportunities available for women in the business, corporate, and creative sectors.
WRITING
CTWR 211g The Television Writer: An Agent of Change (4 units)
Description: The television writer as an agent of change across current social issues including, but not limited to: race, gender, and class.
This course satisfies the university’s general education requirement.
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 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 140 Workshop in Multimedia Authoring (2 units)
Description: Introduction to the expressive potential of multimedia as a critical and creative tool, supplementing traditional forms of academic work.
IML 295L Workshop in Multimedia Authoring (4 units)
Description: Critical analysis of the categories of race, class and gender within the diverse digital spaces of contemporary culture, from video games to the digital divide.
IML 309 Integrative Design for Mobile Devices (4 units)
Description: Hands-on investigation of opportunities and challenges offered by mobile interaction within both cultural and ideological contexts.
IML 340 Remixing the Archive (4 units)
Description: An intermediate level course, which approaches archived material from multiple perspectives, in order to develop new avenues of expression, education, and research.
IML 420m New Media for Social Change (4 units)
Description: Creating real social change through multimedia, working in collaboration with a local nonprofit organization.
IML 458 The Embedded Story: Designing Digital Landscapes and Languages (2 units)
Description: Exploration of the imagined territories where language and landscape originate, converge and are transformed. Students will collaborate to create media in cross-platform environments.
Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism
JOURNALISM
JOUR 201 Culture of Journalism: Past, Present and Future (4 units)
Description: UUnderstanding key moments, debates and ideas that have shaped journalism in the United States from the Revolutionary War period through today. Examination of the social, cultural, political and technological aspects of journalism and its impact on the profession and public service.
Professor: Roberto Suro
JOUR 330 Photojournalism (4 units)
Description: Emphasis on fundamental skills necessary for photojournalism including camera techniques, story ideas and digital darkroom.
JOUR 380 Sports, Business and Media in Today’s Society (4 units)
Description: An inside look at the important stories, topical issues, trends and historical developments related to the growing influence of business and media on college and professional sports; identifying the key components and meeting the influencers in class that help shape the business side of sports, while recognizing the role the media plays in providing daily coverage across multiple platforms.
JOUR 381 Entertainment, Business and Media in Today’s Society (4 units)
Description: An examination of the symbiotic relationship of the entertainment business and the media; press coverage of the entertainment industry; Hollywood’s relationship with news media.
JOUR 411 Broadcast Reporting and Newswriting for Non-Majors (2 units)
Description: Develop a broad-based knowledge of broadcast news writing and reporting; recognize, research and develop stories; write and format broadcast stories in all forms and learn to produce finished news packages.
JOUR 432 Sports Commentary (4 units)
Description: Techniques of reporting and writing sports columns and commentary for print, video, radio and Web-based media.
JOUR 469 Money, Markets and Media (4 units)
Description: Practical approach to understanding and writing about economic concepts through current events, case studies and historical examples.
JOUR 475 Publications Design and Technology (4 units)
Description: Art, typography, and other graphic elements in publication design; traditional, contemporary, and advanced production methods, processes, and equipment; representative examples; practice in design.
JOUR 499 Special Topics (2, 3, 4 units)
Description: Selected topics in journalism.
Professor: Joe Saltzman, Jeffrey C. Fellenzer
PUBLIC RELATIONS
PR 452 Public Relations in Entertainment (4 units)
Description: Public relations in the design, promotion, and presentation of popular entertainment, including films, broadcasting, music, expositions, amusement parks, resorts and arenas.
PR 453 Public Relations Strategies for Working with Athletes (4 units)
Description: Sports Public Relations isn’t only getting press for a team or player; it’s managing communications among influencers. Complements overview course giving students advanced look at practitioners’ role with professional athletes.
PR 455 Public Relations for Non-Profit Organizations (4 units)
Description: Introduction to the specialized field of public relations for non-profit and non-governmental organizations; emphasis on case studies, strategic and critical thinking, and campaign development.
PR 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.
PR 492 Personal Branding (4 units)
Description: Learn to build, promote and manage a personal brand through critical analysis, case study, interactive interpretation and creative problem solving.
School of Dramatic Arts
THTR 122 Improvisation and Theatre Games (2 units)
Description: Individual and group exercises to free the actor physically and emotionally and to stimulate creativity, imagination, and self-expression.
THTR 295 Theatre in Los Angeles (2 units)
Description: Current state of American theatre, through a study of acting, playwriting, criticism, stage design, lighting and dramatic styles.
THTR 365 Playwriting I (4 units)
Description: Essential elements of playwriting through weekly assignments, students’ initiative, occasional productions of scenes, and extensive classroom analysis.
THTR 405m Performing Identities (4 units)
Description: This course explores the live performance medium as a creative means of social redress and personal expression. (Duplicates credit in the former THTR 393m).
THTR 406 Theatre on the Edge (4 units)
Description: An exploration of the art of theatre at the edge of possibilities.
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.
THTR 486 Creating Characters (4 units)
Description: A writing workshop devoted to the creation of living, breathing characters, exploring a range of techniques designed to develop authenticity.
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.
MUJZ 218b 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. Prerequisite: MUJZ 218a.
MUJZ 450 Intermediate Jazz Improvisation (2 units)
Description: Development of intermediate improvisational skills including underlying principles of theory, harmony, jazz ear training, and jazz style. Recommended preparation: MUJZ 150.
MUSIC ENSEMBLE
MUEN 222 Trojan Marching Band (1 unit)
Description: Rehearsal and participation in performances for athletic and other university functions. Open to all students by audition. Graded CR/NC.
MUEN 305 Vocal Jazz Ensemble (1 unit)
Description: Study and performance of vocal ensemble literature from the Jazz idiom, with emphasis on improvisational techniques. Open to all students by audition. Graded CR/NC.
MUEN 307 University Chorus (1 unit, max 8)
Description: Rehearsal and performance of choral literature from all periods of music history. Open to all students. Graded CR/NC.
MUEN 308 USC Men’s Chorus (1 unit)
Description: Rehearsal and performance of choral repertoire from all periods written for male voices. Open to all students. Graded CR/NC.
MUEN 311 USC Oriana Choir (1 unit)
Description: Rehearsal and performance of advanced chamber music written for women’s voices. Open to all students by audition. Graded CR/NC.
MUEN 322 Trojan Marching Band (1 unit)
Description: Continuation of MUEN 222. Graded CR/NC.
MUEN 505 Vocal Jazz Ensemble (1 unit)
Description: Study and performance of vocal ensemble literature from the Jazz idiom, with emphasis on improvisational techniques. Open to all graduate students by audition. (Duplicates credit in MUEN 405.)
MUEN 507 University Chorus (1 unit)
Description: Rehearsal and performance of choral literature from all periods of music history. Open to all graduate students.
MUEN 508 USC Men’s Chorus (1 unit)
Description: Rehearsal and performance of choral repertoire from all periods written for male voices.
MUEN 511 USC Oriana Choir (1 unit)
Description: Rehearsal and performance of advanced chamber music written for women’s voices. Open to all graduate students by audition.
MUSIC INDUSTRY
MUIN 272x Basics of the Music Industry (4 units)
Description: Introductory survey of the music business. Topics include: copyright, record companies, contracts, music publishing, performance rights societies, managers, agents, and other artist team/income considerations. Not for major credit for music industry majors. (Duplicates credit in former MUIN 372ax.)
MUIN 372x Business and Legal Aspects of the Music Industry (4 units)
Description: An intermediate-level survey of music law, artist contract analysis, case studies, modern/emerging business models and the business of music licensing. Prerequisite: MUIN 272x. Not available for credit for music industry majors. (Duplicates credit in former MUIN 372bx.)
MUSIC TECHNOLOGY
MTEC 245 Introduction to MIDI Sequencing (1 unit)
Description: Introductory course where students will learn to use professional MIDI sequencing software to sequence, edit, and realize music compositions.
MTEC 246 Introduction to Audio Recording and Editing (1 unit)
Description: Introduction to the techniques and applications of recording, editing and mixing sound on personal computers.
MTEC 248 Introduction to Music Notation (1 unit)
Description: Introduction to the skills and techniques required to prepare musical scores and parts using industry standard music notation software.
MTEC 277x Introduction to Music Technology (4 units)
Description: A survey of the technology used to create, prepare, perform, and distribute music, with an emphasis on recording, MIDI, music production, mastering and Internet technologies. Not available for major credit to B.M. and B.S., Music Industry majors. (Duplicates credit in former MUIN 277.)
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.
MPKS 150b Beginning Piano (2 units)
Description: Techniques of performance, note reading, and basic musicianship. Not open to music majors. Prerequisite: MPKS 150a.
MPKS 150c 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.
MPPM 340 Intermediate Drum Set Proficiency (2 units)
Description: Intermediate level instruction in drum set performance including accompaniment techniques, fills, beat and brush patterns in jazz, Afro-Caribbean and Brazilian styles, interpreting drum charts. Recommended preparation: MPPM 240.
PERFORMANCE (STRINGS)
MPST 163 Class Harp (2 units, max 4)
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)
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)
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 115gp Western Music as Sounding History (4 units)
Description: An introduction to Western art music and culture from the Medieval, Renaissance, Baroque, Classical, Romantic and Modern eras through reading, listening, analyzing and writing about music.
MUSC 200mgw The Broadway Musical: Reflections of American Diversity (4 units)
Description: A uniquely American genre, the Broadway musical serves as a catalyst for inquiry into human diversity, cross-culturalism, and significant social and political issues.
MUSC 210g Electronic Music and Dance Culture (4 units)
Description: The origins and development of EDM and its relatives such as disco, house, techno, rave and electronica, focusing on cultural and technological influences.
MUSC 250mgw The Music of Black Americans (4 units)
Description: A chronicle of the musical contribution of Africans and African Americans to American society and to the foundations of musical genres and styles throughout the world.
MUSC 255 Songwriting I (2 units)
Description: Development of musical and lyrical skills, composing, listening, analysis, and critiques of popular original music.
MUSC 320mgw Hip-hop Music and Culture (4 units)
Description: A history of hip-hop music from its inception to the present: its musical processes and styles, as well as attendant social, political and cultural issues.
MUSC 355 Songwriting II (2 units)
Description: Continuation of Songwriting I; particular emphasis on the analysis of the techniques of important popular songwriters and the application of these techniques to original songs. (Duplicates credit in former MUCO 252.) Prerequisite: MUSC 255.
MUSC 371g Musical Genre Bending (4 units)
Description: The aesthetic and ethical issues of genre-bending music in 20th and 21st century rock, classical, jazz, and folk music.
MUSC 373g Writing About Popular Music (4 units)
Description: Immerses students in criticism, scholarship, and creative writing dealing with popular music. Students participate in that discourse through developing their own authorial voices.
MUSC 422 The Beatles: Their Music and Their Times (4 units)
Description: Music, lyrics, recordings, production techniques, career strategy, social ramifications, and especially the technological impact of the musical group known as The Beatles.
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.
MUSC 460 Film Music: History and Function from 1930 to the Present (4 units)
Description: A survey of the art and craft of film music as practiced by outstanding composers in motion pictures.
USC Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy
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.
What you choose to do or not do, minute by minute, day by day, and year by year, shapes who you will become and how healthy you will be. Develop expertise in lifestyle design, starting with your own.
OT 250 Introduction to Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy (4 units)
Description: Introduction to concept of occupation and overview of human drive for meaningful activity; impact of occupations on health and well-being; analysis of personal occupational patterns; selected therapeutic applications.
Discover strategies that will enable you to successfully transition to college life and beyond. Learn to utilize tools that will help you to create a healthy living environment, manage your time and find social community. In this age of information overload, find your path to happiness, purpose and health.
OT 251x Across the Lifespan: Occupations, Health and Disability (4 units)
Description: Exploration of the transformative power of occupation throughout the lifespan for all individuals.
What activities are important to a child? To an adolescent? To an adult? Explore the power of occupation and its ability to be transformative throughout the lifespan of all individuals. Discover how your path has changed throughout your life and learn to better direct its course in the future.
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.
What creative occupations did you leave behind when you began your path at USC? Learn how you can rediscover the imaginative pursuits that help bring happiness and meaning to your life. Explore your creative side and discover what 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.
OT 320 The Nature of Human Occupation: Form, Function, and Meaning (4 units)
Description: The complex nature of human occupation is covered from an interdisciplinary perspective. Emphasis is on how occupation contributes to human experience in a lived world.
The pursuit of activities is central to the human experience. Learn how your everyday activities can be observed and classified, as well as how they impact your health and wellness, while you discover their significance in your life.
OT 370 Understanding Autism: Participation Across the Lifespan (4 units)
Description: Introduction to Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) from a neurodevelopmental perspective, with a focus on the daily living experience and occupational participation for individuals with ASD.
USC, your future workplace, and American society at large are continually growing more diverse. Expand your knowledge about managing everyday activities from the perspectives of people living with disabilities. Learn how physical, political and social environments can create opportunities and obstacles in all of our lives.
OT 375 The Narrative Structure of Social Action: Narrative, Healing and Occupation (4 units)
Description: Narrative as guide and structure of practical action. Special emphasis on chronic illness and disability and narrative structure of clinical interactions.
Personal stories guide the actions and choices we make in our day-to-day lives. Explore how stories help us to make sense of our actions, guide our future decisions, and can impact our healing and personal transformations.
USC School of Pharmacy
REGULATORY SCIENCE
RXRS 402 Human Pharmacology: Challenge of Therapeutics in Society (4 units)
Description: Principles of human pharmacology/toxicology related to prescription, over the counter medications; nutraceuticals; drug-drug interactions; polypharmacy; hot topics related to recently approved drugs.
Recommended Preparation: Students should have at completed at least one year of undergraduate biology and/or chemistry.
RXRS 404 Neuroimmunity in Health and Disease (4 units)
Description: Social, psychological, economical, biological reasons associated with drug use/abuse; prevention strategies; Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy successes/ challenges; current trends; case studies; roles of health care professionals.
Recommended Preparation: background in or completion of a year of biological science course work
RXRS 404 Neuroimmunity in Health and Disease (4 units)
Description: Social, psychological, economical, biological reasons associated with drug use/abuse; prevention strategies; Pharmacology and Pharmacotherapy successes/ challenges; current trends; case studies; roles of health care professionals.
Recommended Preparation: background in or completion of a year of biological science course work
RXRS 405 Pharmacology and Sociology of Drug Abuse (4 units)
Description: Social, psychological, economical, biological reasons associated with drug use/abuse; prevention strategies; pharmacology and pharmacotherapy successes/ challenges; current trends; case studies; roles of health care professionals.
RXRS 411 Innovations in Medical Product Development (4 units)
Description: Developing new medical technologies; political, regulatory, financing and reimbursement issues that may be associated; case studies looking at the newest medical technologies.
RXRS 416 Medical Products: From Idea to Market (4 units)
Description: Progress of medical product development through intellectual property, animal and clinical trials and commercialization. Emphasis on safety, quality systems and efficacy.