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Media Arts – Programs & Curriculum



  • Photography — Associate of Science
    • Successful photography professionals do not rely on talent alone. They must possess a thorough understanding of composition, light, and problem solving skills as well as a wide array of technical skills; from choosing the right equipment to employing techniques to capture precise images.

      PROGRAM OBJECTIVES

          •    Demonstrate proficiency with professional capture formats
          •    Apply advanced principles of color management
          •    Utilize raster-imaging software for image manipulation and output
          •    Demonstrate proficiency with HTML and motion software for webpage design
          •    Demonstrate effective communication skills when speaking to a client, model or photographic team
          •    Work effectively in a team environment while assisting on a photography shoot
          •    Work effectively in a team environment
          •    Demonstrate intellectual curiosity
          •    Define and enrich a concept using the results of a problem solving process
          •    Exhibit conviction and commitment to quality in all work
          •    Demonstrate lighting skills in the studio and on location
          •    Use tungsten and electronic-flash equipment
          •    Identify and apply basic concepts of running a business
          •    Develop a sense of business and personal ethics
          •    Determine a career track
          •    Demonstrate creativity on demand
          •    Use acquired skills to define personal style and vision
          •    Assemble a portfolio


      ENTRY-LEVEL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES
      Graduates of the Photography programs are prepared to seek entry-level positions in photography studios, advertising agencies, and for graphic design and website site development companies. These jobs will range from photographer to assistant. Others choose to work as photojournalists, wedding/portrait photographers, and as editorial photographers. Most Photography graduates work independently by taking freelance assignments.
    • Total Credit Hours: 120
    • Eight 11–Week Quarters or 88 Weeks
  • Curriculum
  •  
    • GE10110 English Composition I 

      This is a composition course that stresses the writing process. Students will write multi-paragraph essays using the following expository modes: description, narration, example, comparison/contrast, classification/division, process analysis, and causal analysis. Nonfiction readings will be covered to help illustrate writing structures and the organization of ideas. (3 quarter credits, 4 hours per week)

      Prerequisites: ASSET placement OR successful completion (grade "C") of GE0011EN and/or GE0012RD

    • GE10120 Art History: Prehistoric to Mannerist 

      This course surveys Western art forms relative to political, social, religious, and economic movements from antiquity to the Mannerist period. Topics include painting, sculpture, decorative arts, and architecture. (3 quarter credits, 4 hours per week)

      Prerequisites: None

    • GE10130 History of Photography 

      This course provides a framework for considering critically significant photographers and their work. Students will be expected to describe, interpret, and evaluate the origins, stylistic changes, and artistic innovations in the history of photography from the nineteenth century through contemporary times. (3 quarter credits, 4 hours per week)

      Prerequisites: None

    • GE10210 English Composition II 

      This is a composition course that focuses primarily on analytical and persuasive writing, as well as the research paper. Emphasis is also placed on critical reading and thinking. Cultural issues such as diversity, multiculturalism, tolerance, and effective communication will be discussed in connection with some writing assignments. (3 quarter credits, 4 hours per week)

      Prerequisites: GE10110

    • GE10220 College Math 

      This course covers algebraic techniques and problem-solving, such as algebraic and complex fractions, operations with real numbers, linear functions and systems, quadratic equations, radicals and radical expressions, factoring, polynomials, conic equations and applications, exponents and radicals. (3 quarter credits, 4 hours per week)

      Prerequisites: ASSET placement OR successful completion (grade "C") of GE0013MA, GE0013MA

    • GE10230 Art History: Baroque to Contemporary 

      This course surveys Western art forms relative to political, social, religious, and economic movements from the Baroque to present day. Topics include painting, sculpture, decorative arts, architecture, photography, and conceptual art. (3 quarter credits, 4 hours per week)

      Prerequisites: None

    • GE10310 World Literature 

      This course focuses on international literary selections. Topics include the critical evaluation of the literary genres: short story, poetry, and drama. (3 quarter credits, 4 hours per week)

      Prerequisites: GE10110, GE10210

    • GE10410 Introduction to Psychology 

      This course focuses on a working knowledge of human sensory processes and their subsequent perceptual and behavioral manifestations. Topics include learning, memory, consciousness, and cognition. (3 quarter credits, 4 hours per week)

      Prerequisites: GE10110, GE10210

    • GE20510 Ethics 

      This is course an introduction to the concepts, theory and practice of ethical decision-making in the personal and social realms. Concepts such as justice, mercy, responsibility, and morality are considered. Students will learn about a broad range of ethical theories and theorists, ancient to modern. These theories will be compared, contrasted, and applied to a variety of ethical problems, dilemmas, and controversies. (3 quarter credits, 4 hours per week)

      Prerequisites: GE10110, GE10210

    • GE20530 Sociology 

      In this course students will examine group interaction within human society. Through texts, lectures, videos, and discussions, students will learn about the variety of ways sociologists view human culture and society, as well as the sociological phenomena that affect the lives of individuals within the world-wide human family. (3 quarter credits, 4 hours per week)

      Prerequisites: GE10110, GE10210

    • GE20560 Western Civilization: Ancient to Renaissance 

      This course covers Western civilizations from the Ancient Near East, through Greece and Rome, to the Middle Ages, the rise of Christianity, and the Renaissance. These civilizations will be examined in terms of social, economic, political and cultural perspectives. Major historical events, ideas, and developments will be discussed, and issues of race, class, and gender will be considered. (3 quarter credits, 4 hours per week)

      Prerequisites: GE10110, GE10210

    • GE20580 Economics 

      This course provides an introduction to the principles of economics emphasizing an analysis of the economy as a whole. Interrelationships among the consumer, business, and government sectors are explored from American and international economic perspectives. (3 quarter credits, 4 hours per week)

      Prerequisites: GE10110, GE10210, AND GE10220 OR GE10450

    • GE20710 Aesthetics 

      This course focuses on aesthetics, which is alternately defined as philosophy of art, philosophy of beauty, and philosophy of taste. All three definitions point to the ways in which we create, experience, think about, and write about the fine arts. Through texts, lectures, videos, and discussions, students will learn about the variety of ways in which individuals generate their own critical voice and aesthetic theories. (3 quarter credits, 4 hours per week)

      Prerequisites: GE10110, GE10210 AND GE10120 OR GE10230

    • GR10110 Fundamentals of Drawing  

      Visual awareness is expanded through the observation of the principles of light and the translation of three-dimensional form into two-dimensional drawings. Advancing from simple to complex forms, skill levels in construction and an understanding of line and perspective will be developed. Students study the effects of light and movement on the human body. (3 quarter credits, 4 hours per week)

      Prerequisites: None

    • GR10130 Color Theory  

      This fundamental course provides an introduction to the principles of color and an exploration of color theory as it relates to graphic design. The psychological and cultural aspects of color will be examined in making appropriate design decisions. (3 quarter credits, 4 hours per week)

      Prerequisites: None

    • LS10110 Computer Science 

      This course introduces the theories and applications of both the IBM and Macintosh computers. Topics include word processing, spreadsheets, databases, PowerPoint, computer graphics, file preparation for high-end output, file management, basic data storage and retrieval and the Internet. (3 quarter credits, 4 hours per week)

      Prerequisites: None

    • PH0015PF Portfolio Foundations Photography  

      The creative professions require innovative individuals with clear vision. Freshmen at The Art Institute of Philadelphia will work together to develop the vision of what makes a successful student and professional. The course begins by welcoming students into The Art Institute of Philadelphia community and helping them integrate into this student environment. Students will become acquainted with college and community resources, explore their goals for success, and work on establishing a visionary course for the development of their professional portfolio. The course concludes with attending the portfolio show of the graduating class. (0 quarter credits, 2 hours per week)

      Prerequisites: None

    • PH10111 Introduction to Photoshop 

      This course identifies the potential of the computer as a tool of the professional photographer. Students develop skills on various platforms and examine the techniques of print retouching and manipulations. (3 quarter credits, 4 hours per week)

      Prerequisites: None

    • PH10130 Fundamentals of Photography  

      In this fundamental course, students will identify basic photographic tools and their intended purposes, including the proper use of various camera systems, light meter and film selection. Students will analyze photographs to determine their positive and negative attributes and apply these principles to produce their own visually compelling images by employing the correct photographic techniques. (3 quarter credits, 4 hours per week)

      Prerequisites: None

    • PH10210 View Camera  

      Working individually and in teams, students will utilize large format cameras both in the studio and on location, working with various light sources. Students will develop a frame of reference for their own work by examining the effective and ineffective characteristics in various examples of art and design. (3 quarter credits, 4 hours per week)

      Prerequisites: PH10130

    • PH10221 Photo Techniques  

      This is an intermediate course designed to further the student’s black and white photographic skills. By manipulating film exposure and development, the student will learn how to create excellent and expressive black and white prints. The student’s exploration and understanding of the photographic medium will be guided by specific set assignments, demonstrations and group critiques. (3 quarter credits, 4 hours per week)

      Prerequisites: PH10130 OR PH10350

    • PH10240 Photographic Design  

      This course requires students to demonstrate their ability to define and solve advanced design problems. Students will analyze the characteristics and purposes of various problems and then offer clean and creative solutions for each. The students are expected to communicate ideas using symbolism appropriately. (3 quarter credits, 4 hours per week)

      Prerequisites: PH10330

    • PH10311 Principles of Lighting  

      In this course, students will be introduced to the basic concepts and principles of lighting for photography. Fundamentals of recognizing and controlling both natural and studio lighting with emphasis on the quality, direction and effect on the photographic image. (3 quarter credits, 4 hours per week)

      Prerequisites: PH10330

    • PH10320 Advanced Principles of Photography  

      This is an introduction to color transparencies, digital image capture and support software. Students will learn to control color and contrast with transparency materials during film exposure/development and to optimize digital captures for best possible output. In addition, students will begin to utilize basic Photoshop workflow to demonstrate proper input and output techniques. (3 quarter credits, 4 hours per week)

      Prerequisites: PH10330

    • PH10330 Color Printing and Design  

      In this class, students will learn color theory and how to design color images. Students will also gain a basic understanding of how to utilize color management systems, and correct digital files and prints using Adobe Photoshop software. (3 quarter credits, 4 hours per week)

      Prerequisites: PH10111, PH10130

    • PH10411 Studio Techniques  

      All aspects of studio photography are discussed in this course. This course also covers problem-solving skills through a variety of assignments designed to challenge the students’ skills in lighting, camera operation, and commercial interpretation. (3 quarter credits, 4 hours per week)

      Prerequisites: PH10311

    • PH10432 Advanced Photoshop  

      This class provides students with a more in-depth experience using Adobe Photoshop. Students will explore channels, masks, basic compositing, vector tools and advanced layer techniques. In addition the course will cover efficient Photoshop workflow from input to output, advanced color correction and elementary color management. Prerequisite: PH10320 (3 quarter credits, 4 hours per week)

      Prerequisites: PH10320

    • PH20511 Advanced Lighting  

      This course expands on the Principles of Lighting course, with an emphasis on lighting for products and people in both the studio and on location. Introduction to the necessary and correct utilization of electronic flash and lighting tools in the studio and on location are covered. (3 quarter credits, 4 hours per week)

      Prerequisites: PH10311

    • PH20520 Digital Illustration  

      In this course, students will explore emerging technologies and various professional uses of digital imaging. Students will be expected to combine previously learned digital techniques with newly acquired information design skills to produce unique digital images. (3 quarter credits, 4 hours per week)

      Prerequisites: PH10432

    • PH20522 Photojournalism 

      In this course, students will obtain an accurate picture of the field of photojournalism as presented by seasoned professionals. Emphasis is placed on creativity, content, gathering of information, and layout. Students will learn that this field is one that requires dedication and drive. They will be shown examples of photojournalism and will be required to produce their own renditions of the picture story, magazine covers, and page layouts for all types of print media. (3 quarter credits, 4 hours per week)

      Prerequisites: PH10330

    • PH20531 Architectural Photography  

      This course covers the fundamentals of photographing interiors and exteriors for the architect. The student completes all assignments with the four-by-five or eight-by-ten view camera. (3 quarter credits, 4 hours per week)

      Prerequisites: PH10311, PH10432

    • PH20611 Advanced Studio Techniques  

      The specific needs of a variety of manufacturing and retail clients are examined and photographic solutions are developed in this course. Students create photographs meeting specific market and media needs. (3 quarter credits, 4 hours per week)

      Prerequisites: PH20511, PH20520

    • PH20621 Digital Photographic Production  

      This class covers Photoshop production methods for various types of originals, including line art, black and white and color images. Students will refine their Photoshop workflow from input scanning and digital capture to output on inkjet printers and web. Advanced color correction techniques, sharpening and working in color modes other than RGB will be covered as well. (3 quarter credits, 4 hours per week)

      Prerequisites: PH10320

    • PH20630 Marketing and Promotion  

      This course will apply the techniques used to research and identify target markets; identify efficient ways of selling work through agents; and examine how to create a successful self-promotion campaign. Students will demonstrate telephone marketing and sales skills, and be expected to build a portfolio of images that support their research. (3 quarter credits, 4 hours per week)

      Prerequisites: None

    • PH20631 Survey of Photography  

      In this course students receive an overview of the photographic industry, including specialty fields available to professional photographers and a history of these fields. A working knowledge of these career fields will be obtained through lectures presented by working professionals and field trips to business locations. (3 quarter credits, 4 hours per week)

      Prerequisites: GE10130

    • PH20641 Location Photography 1 

      This course explores the special needs of location photography. The planning and logistics of shooting on location are covered. Transportation, scouting, permits and billing, in addition to lighting, metering, and other photographic controls will be demonstrated in a variety of assignments related to fashion, portraiture, still life, product, stock, and architectural photography. Students work alone and in teams, thus sharing a number of photographic and support roles. (3 quarter credits, 4 hours per week)

      Prerequisites: PH20511

    • PH20710 Portfolio 1 

      Students will incorporate knowledge and techniques acquired during the program to determine specific career goals, and begin preparation of a professional entry-level portfolio. (3 quarter credits, 4 hours per week)

      Prerequisites: PH20611, PH20641, PH20721

    • PH20721 Workshop 

      This is the first of a series of classes in which the student’s work is analyzed in depth, and a critical vocabulary is developed to critique images. The student is expected to begin producing images for his/her final portfolio. (3 quarter credits, 4 hours per week)

      Prerequisites: PH20611 (may be a prerequisite or corequisite) and PH20520, PH20522

    • PH20732 Photographic Web Portfolio 1 

      Students will learn the basic tools for placing their photographs on the Internet and for archiving their portfolio on CD. The course covers basic HTML scripting and two-dimensional animation on the web. (3 quarter credits, 4 hours per week)

      Prerequisites: PH20621

    • PH20810 Portfolio Projects 2 

      This course is the completion of the portfolio process for associate’s students only, with an emphasis on presentation, craftsmanship, and creation of a personal style. (3 quarter credits, 4 hours per week)

      Prerequisites: PH20710

  • Other
  • Electives
  • General Education Electives (Select 1)
    • GE10240 Visual Culture of Food 

      From the hunting scenes painted on the walls of prehistoric caves to the representations of elaborate court dinners in seventeenth and eighteenth century Europe, depictions of food, regardless of the medium, vividly express the essential and complex role of food throughout history and culture. Students will explore the place of food in the visual arts from both an art history and culinary perspective and be exposed to the iconography of food as religious, social and political symbols. (3 quarter credits, 4 hours per week)

      Prerequisites: None

    • GE10320 Effective Speaking 

      In this course, students will learn professional methods of speaking and of communicating their ideas and experience to others. Students will prepare and deliver demonstration and persuasive speeches designed to be effective with a variety of audiences. Students will also participate in small group presentations. Topics include subject selection, audience analysis, research, organization, and the use of voice and body in speech delivery. (3 quarter credits, 4 hours per week)

      Prerequisites: None

    • GE10330 American Government 

      This course is an introduction to the principles and practices of American Government. Concepts such as democracy, civil rights, civil liberties; public opinion; mass media, political parties, and the three branches of government will be discussed. Students will learn about the framework of government from colonialism to the present day. Government ideologies will be discussed and applied to various situations in an unbiased manner. Students will be able to see the importance of government and how decisions made by the government affect our everyday daily lives. (3 quarter credits, 4 hours per week)

      Prerequisites: None

    • GE10430 Environmental Science 

      This course will introduce the student to the physical, ecological, social and political principles of environmental science. The student should gain an understanding of scientific method and how it is used to analyze the relationship between humans and the natural environment. The course will help the student to develop an analytical framework that he/she can use to judge environmental issues and intelligently discuss environmental responsibility. (3 quarter credits, 4 hours per week)

      Prerequisites: None

    • GE10440 History of Motion Media & Mass Communication 

      This course presents a survey of major events and development in the history of motion media and mass communication. The survey focuses on the relationship between technology and media development and explores the impact motion media and mass communication have on society and economy. (3 quarter credits, 4 hours per week)

      Prerequisites: None

    • GE20540 United States History: Early Period 

      This course covers the period of U.S. history from early colonization to the Spanish/American War. Primary emphasis is on the English colonies and the period of nationhood. This course will examine U.S. history in terms of social, economic and political perspectives, and students will also trace the histories of various American populations, such as women, African-Americans, Native Americans, etc., throughout the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. (3 quarter credits, 4 hours per week)

      Prerequisites: GE10110, GE10210

    • GE20590SA Study Abroad 

      This course is designed for students who wish to study abroad. Students will travel between the spring and summer quarters and will return to campus to complete a final exhibition project during the summer quarter. The course will consist of lectures, activities, research, and discussions designed to examine the culture, history, and aesthetics of the city or cities chosen for the study abroad experience. Students will also be encouraged to explore issues of identity and place, ideology (values, norms, customs), society (conformity/autonomy, gender, class), and structure (religious, political, economic) as they share, analyze, and reflect upon their experiences throughout the course. (3 quarter credits, 44 hours over two week break)

      Prerequisites: None

    • GE20610 Theatre Appreciation  

      Theatre Appreciation introduces students to the art, in theory and in practice, of live theatre and the many types of artists who collaborate to create a theatrical production. This course will enhance students’ appreciation of the nature and place of theatre in contemporary culture. Students will experience theatre in depth through reading scripts, analyzing productions, and completing a creative theatre project. (3 quarter credits, 4 hours per week)

      Prerequisites: GE10110, GE10210

    • GE20810 History of Film 

      This course introduces students to the aesthetic, technical, and historical principles of film and the artists who were instrumental in its development and growth. Students will examine the creative process and analyze the different genres of film. (3 quarter credits, 4 hours per week)

      Prerequisites: GE10110, GE10210

The Art Institute of Philadelphia

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