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 Iovine and Young Academy (ACAD)
- School of Architecture (ARCH)
- Roski School of Art and Design (FACE, FADN, FA, FAIN, FAPT, FAPH, FASC)
- School of Cinematic Arts (CTAN, CTCS, CTIN, CTPR, CTWR, IML)
- Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism (COMM, JOUR)
- School of Dramatic Arts (THTR)
- Keck School of Medicine of USC (INTD, PATH)
- Thornton School of Music (MUCO, MUJZ, MUEN, MUHL, MUIN, MTEC, MPGU, MPKS, MPPM, MPST, MPVA, MSCR, MUSC)
USC Iovine and Young Academy
ARTS, TECHNOLOGY AND THE BUSINESS OF INNOVATION
ACAD 352 Digital Audio Recording and Processing (4 units)
Description: The principles, techniques, and aesthetics of digital audio recording and processing with an emphasis on mastering for multimedia integration. Recommended preparation: ACAD 200
ACAD 356 Audio and Media Integration (4 units)
Description: Methods and techniques for integrating audio into various media and applications including: film and video, Internet streaming, mobile devices, and other digital and computer applications.
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 207 Computer Applications in Architecture (2 units)
Description: Introduction for the non-programmer to the uses of the computer in architecture, including the application of existing programs and their implications for design. Lecture and laboratory. Overview and use of software types.
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 307 Digital Tools for Architecture (3 units)
Description: Exploration of digital tools with an emphasis on building information modeling (BIM), parametric modeling, and interoperability including special topics in Architecture/Engineering/Construction (AEC) and sustainable design. Recommended preparation: basic computer skills.
ARCH 404 Topics in Modern Architecture in Southern California (3 units)
Description: Investigation of modern architecture in Southern California within its cultural and historic contexts.
ARCH 419 Architectural Sustainability Tools and Methods (3 units)
Description: Lectures, comparative studies and exercises on international architectural sustainability rating and certification systems.
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 440m Literature and the Urban Experience (4 units)
Description: Post-industrial revolution urban environments and dynamic relationships in cities such as Manchester, Paris, St. Petersburg, New York, and Los Angeles, as revealed in novels, architecture, and urban forms.
ARCH 444 Great Houses of Los Angeles (4 units)
Description: An introduction to the architectural philosophies of seven influential California architects through readings and site visits to significant case studies. (Duplicates credit in former ARCH 322.)
ARCH 454 Contemporary Asian Architecture (4 units)
Description: Exploration of various “Asian” architectures, comparisons of areas, identifying current trends and impact of Asia on Southern California and Los Angeles.
ARCH 520 Housing and Community Design for an Aging Population (2 units)
Description: Exploration of the role design plays in enhancing independence and well-being for older people by examining cross-cultural models of housing and community design.
ARCH 547 Urban Nature (3 units)
Description: Interactions of cities and nature: introduction to the ecology of cities; major threats to urban biodiversity interacting with human attitudes; review of restoration and conservation projects. Recommended preparation: ARCH 531.
ARCH 555 Global Perspectives in Heritage Conservation (2 units)
Description: In-depth analysis of international heritage conservation practice with a focus on a single country, continent, or world region outside the United States. Topics will vary from year to year; may be repeated for credit when subject matter is different.
ARCH 579 Sustainable Building and Environment using LEED Metrics (3 units)
Description: Fundamental knowledge of sustainable building concepts, current environmental design building rating systems, building performance and diagnostics metrics, as well as reference standards related to sustainable design.
ARCH 586 City Cine: Visuality, Media and Urban Experience (4 units)
Description: Explores the relationship between urban experience and visual media (from the photographic, to the filmic, to the digital) from circa 1880 to the present.
Roski School of Art and Design
CERAMICS
FACE 112 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 the former FA 112.)
FACE 212 Wheel Throwing (4 units)
Description: An introductory course using wheel throwing techniques for ceramics to explore a variety of forms through three-dimensional exercises. (Duplicates credit in the former FA 212.)
DESIGN
FADN 102 Design Fundamentals (4 units)
Description: Introduction to the basic elements and processes of visual communication and design. Instruction includes studio projects, lectures and readings. Various media used. (Duplicates credit in the former FA 102.)
FINE ARTS
FA 208ax Three-Dimensional Art Workshop (2 units)
Description: Studio practice to develop standards of judgment andappreciation of the visual arts. Not available for credit to studio majors.
INTERMEDIA
FAIN 210 Introduction to 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 the former FA 210.)
FAIN 220 Introduction to Video and Time-based Experimentation (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 the former FA 215 and the former FA 220.)
PAINTING
FAPT 105 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 the former FA 105.)
FAPT 205 Painting II (4 units)
Description: Continuation of practical and theoretical skills introduced in Painting I. Color in personal expression, perception, and content; cultural subjects/objects and symbols signifying a personal language. (Duplicates credit in the former FA 205a.)
PHOTOGRAPHY
FAPH 209 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 the former FA 209a.)
FAPT 205 Painting II (4 units)
SCULPTURE
FASC 106 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 the former FA 106.)
FASC 136 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 the former FA 208ax and the former FA 136.)
FASC 436 Art and Technology (4 units)
Description: An interdisciplinary course between art and engineering that addresses creative thinking in the manipulation of media and the communication of ideas. (Duplicates credit in the former FA 436.)
School of Cinematic Arts
ANIMATION
CTAN 200g The Rise of Digital Hollywood (4 units)
Description: An overview of the evolution of computer graphics in modern media.
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 420 Concept Design for Animation (2 units)
Description: Creating characters and environments for animation, live action, and video games.
CTAN 432 The World of Visual Effects (2 units)
Description: Introduction to the expanding field of visual effects; topics include magic lanterns shows, stop-motion fantasies and animation combination films employing the latest digital technologies.
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 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 452 Introduction to 3-D Computer Animation (2 units)
Description: Lecture and laboratory in computer animation: geometric modeling, motion specification, lighting, texture mapping, rendering, compositing, production techniques, systems for computer-synthesized animation.
CTAN 460 Character Design Workshop (2 units)
Description: The basics of character design for animation: anatomy, poses, facial expressions, silhouettes, and anthropomorphism. Development of a portfolio.
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 465L Digital Effects Animation (2 units)
Description: All aspects of digital effects animation, including particles, dynamics, and fluids. Creating water, fire, explosions, and destruction in film.
Prerequisite: CTAN 452 or CTAN 462.
Includes an introduction to the rich procedural capabilities of Houdini, the standard application used in the industry for effects animation. The course will encompass a series of hands-on exercises, so a prior basic working knowledge of Maya or other 3-D application is essential.
CTAN 470 Documentary Animation Production (2 units)
Description: Examination of the history, techniques, and methods of documentary animation production. Collaboration on a short film project.
CTAN 495 Visual Music (2 units)
Description: Experimental animation providing the opportunity to produce individual or group projects. Focus is non-conventional techniques for image creation and collaboration between composer and visual artist. Not open to freshmen and sophomores.
CTAN 497L Generative Animation (2 units)
Description: Introduction to software packages and practices exploring current animation techniques that leverage simulation systems. Artificial intelligence as a tool for animation. Prerequisite: CTAN 452
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.)
CTAN 503 Storyboarding for Animation (2 units)
Description: Focus on film grammar, perspective, and layout, staging and acting as it relates to storyboarding for animation.
CTAN 508L Live Action Integration with Visual Effects (2 units)
Description: Survey of the digital techniques required to successfully marry live action shooting with CGI elements and green screen footage. Prerequisite: CTAN 462
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 551 Stop Motion Performance (2 units)
Description: Incorporating classic stop motion techniques for puppet performance and animation. Emphasis on timing, performance, movement, animation and gesture. Prerequisite: CTAN 550
CTAN 565L Motion Capture Performance (2 units)
Description: The art of directing, acting, and creating story for motion capture will be explored while learning the technology behind bringing virtual actors to life. Prerequisite: CTAN 564
CTAN 592 Master Class (2, 3, 4, 5, 6 units)
Description: A special projects course in which students produce a major work through weekly meetings with a master artist/animator. Topics must be approved prior to enrollment. Recommended preparation: Previous advanced animation production experience.
CRITICAL STUDIES
CTCS 190g Introduction to Cinema (4 units)
Description: Gateway to majors and minors in cinema-television. Technique, aesthetics, criticism, and social implications of cinema. Lectures accompanied by screenings of appropriate films.
Rated one of the top six “USC classes you cannot afford to miss” (Saturday Night Magazine, 2004), this course explores the formal properties of cinema, such as literary design, performance, and film design. Films may include Raging Bull, Sunset Blvd., Singin’ in the Rain, All About Eve and No Country for Old Men.
Professor: Drew Casper
CTCS 191 Introduction to Television and Video (4 units)
Description: Exploration of the economic, technological, aesthetic, and ideological characteristics of the televisual medium; study of historical development of television and video including analysis of key works; introduction to TV/Video theory and criticism.
Are we doomed to a future of wall-to-wall reality television? Will YouTube replace network TV? This course studies television as a unique dramatic form. Screenings will run the gamut from “I Love Lucy” to “Weeds” to “Mad Men.”
Professor: Nitin P. Govil
CTCS 192gm Race, Class, and Gender in American Film (4 units)
Description: Analyzes issues of race, class and gender in contemporary American culture as represented in the cinema.
One of the most popular classes offered at USC, this course focuses on the relationship between film and American society in order to address issues of race, class, and gender in contemporary Hollywood cinema. This course satisfies the university’s diversity requirement and new GE Arts requirement.
Professor: Todd E. Boyd
CTCS 464 Film and/or Television Genres (4 units)
Description: Rigorous examination of film genres: history, aesthetics, cultural context, social significance, and critical methodologies.
Section 18120: Megacinema. The history and theory of great big movies. Cinerama, 3-D, IMAX, and VR; immersion, landscape, temporality, expanded cinema, worldbuilding; national epics. World’s Fairs, roadshows. Films include Napoleon, The Big Trail, This is Cinerama, 2001, Playtime and The Dark Knight.
Professors: John Connor, Drew Casper
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 perspective to analyze and understand experiences with interactive entertainment; students imagine and articulate their own ideas. (Duplicates credit in former CTIN 309.)
Offers students the historical perspective, critical vocabulary, and design skills by which they can analyze and understand their own experiences with interactive entertainment, as well as imagine and articulate their own ideas for interactive experiences.
CTIN 191 Survey of Themed Entertainment (4 units)
Description:Introduction to the field of themed entertainment and education design, covering its history, and, especially, current practice.
A critical look at the development of the theme park industry and the theories and models that shaped its course and development.
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.
CTIN 488 Game Design Workshop (4 units)
Description: Theory and evaluation of interactive game experiences and principles of game design utilizing the leading software approaches and related technologies. Recommended preparation: CTIN 309, CTIN 483.
The purpose of this workshop is to examine models and strategies for creating electronic games that are based on 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.
CTIN 497 Interactive Media Startup (1 units)
Description: Description: Pitching, production planning, forming a company and seeking funding for your creative media idea. Duplicates credit in former CTIN 497ab.
Ideation and Pitching, the fundamentals of coming up with your idea and beginning to market yourself.
MEDIA ARTS AND PRACTICE
IML 104 Introduction to Digital Studies (2 units)
Description: An introduction to the expressive range of screen languages in their cultural, historical, and technological contexts.
Introduction to media, art and technology in the context of various academic and professional disciplines. Students will study the history and theory of digital media and also gain hands-on media authoring skills. Counts as a requirement for the minor in Digital Studies and Honors in Multimedia Scholarship.
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. Introduction to image, video, audio and web authoring in a variety of different topic areas such as storytelling, remix, mindfulness, and marketing. This course counts as a requirement for the minor in Digital Studies and the Honors in Multimedia Scholarship program.
IML 201 The Languages of Digital Media (4 units)
Description: An in-depth investigation of the close interrelationships among technology, culture and communication to form a solid foundation for digital authoring. Duplicates credit in former IML 101.
This course is similar to IML 104, but extends further into web and interactive media topics. Counts as a requirement for the minor in Digital Studies and the Honors in Multimedia Scholarship program.
IML 385 Design Fiction and Speculative Futures (4 units)
Description: The history, theory and methods of design fiction, focusing on design videos and physical prototypes as tools for exploring contemporary social, political and ethical life. Through the use of techniques borrowed from literature, cinema, and design, participants in this class will learn how to use design fiction, or speculative design, to create new designs for the future. Students will engage in collaboration, video capture, video editing, basic sound design, 3-D printing, and object design.
IML 420m New Media for Social Change (4, max 8 units)
Description: Creating real social change through multimedia, working in collaboration with a local nonprofit organization.
IML 420 explores the nature of civic engagement in the 21st century and gives students the opportunity to strengthen their digital media skills in the pursuit of real world change. The course will deepen students’ ability to reflect deeply and act thoughtfully in the age of digital civics.
IML 456 Nature, Design and Media (2 units)
Description: Investigation of the impact of natural patterns on digital media design. Explores the relationships among chaos, harmony, beauty, proportion, spirituality, holistic systems and shaped experience. This course will explore the impact of patterns of order (and disorder) in nature on media design, including the relationships among chaos, harmony, beauty, proportion, spirituality, holistic systems, and shaped experience. Counts as an elective for the minor in Digital Studies and Honors in Multimedia Scholarship.
IML 499 Special Topics (2, 3, 4 units)
Description: Selected topics in multimedia literacy.
Special Topics counts as an elective for the minor in Digital Studies and for Honors in Multimedia Scholarship. In Spring 2017 Media Arts + Practice will offer two sections of Special Topics: Designing and Writing for Transmedia Narratives, and Love Online: Emotion in Digital Culture.
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.
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. Hands-on projects put theory into practice.
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 preparation 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.
Includes writing of the script to planning, shooting, and editing.
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.
The course studies the anatomy of a film by examining a major current release with guest speakers involved in the making of a 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.
Guest speakers and lectures discuss and cover the role of the writer, agent, studio executive, producer, director, as well as address the topics of marketing, publicity 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. An introduction to the craft of makeup for film, TV, and other media.
Students learn through lectures, demos, and hands-on workshops the different kinds of makeup styles and procedures, including the study of glamour, old age, gore, fantasy, and prosthetic techniques.
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.
The class focuses on techniques, cost, and operational characteristics. Great for aspiring production managers, directors, and camera and effects specialists, the class is conducted in a workshop environment where students experience the complexities involved with techniques in use industry-wide.
CTPR 425 Production Planning (2 units)
Description: Theory, discussion, and practical application of production planning during preproduction and production 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.
Students 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.
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 projects.
CTPR 458 Organizing Creativity: Entertainment Industry Decision Making (2 units)
Description: Analysis of the unique structures in the entertainment industry for organizing and managing creativity. Students research and chart pathways to leadership. Open only to juniors, seniors, and graduate students. Students will learn how to face challenges and opportunities as they launch their careers in the entertainment industry. The class examines the industry’s ever-evolving creative and business structures through lectures and dialogue with expert guest speakers.
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. Students are introduced to film economics, as it relates to production, distribution, and exhibition.
CTPR 461 Managing Television Stations and Internet Media (2 units)
Description: Managing electronic media, including radio and television stations, broadcast and cable networks, and the Internet.
Executives from all areas of the TV industry address class each week to provide first-hand information about a wide range of areas, including news production, sales, marketing, and syndication.
CTPR 465 Practicum in Production Design (2 units)
Description: Introduction to visual storytelling: designing the look of a film, building visual continuity into a film, study of the production designers art and craft. Prerequisite: CTPR 310 or CTPR 456.
An introduction to the study of the overall visual appearance of a film. Students learn about how the look of a film helps in communicating story.
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.
Students learn to experiment and discuss the many choices in directing actors, including laboratory and scene analysis. The course also breaks down a script from the emotional point-of-view of the actor.
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 15 minutes in length.
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.
Shonda Rhimes. Ron Moore. Jill Soloway. Television writers always have challenged our biases of gender, race, sexual orientation, social, and economic attitudes. CTWR 211g will take an in-depth look at the television writer as a powerful agent of change, shaping our views and pushing our cultural boundaries.
CTWR 411 Television Script Analysis (2 units)
Description: In-depth analysis of the craft of writing prime-time episodic television. Examination of situation comedies and dramas through weekly screenings and lectures.
CTWR 431 Screenwriters and Their Work (2, max 6 units)
Description: Detailed investigation of a specific screenwriter’s style and the works they’ve influenced. Lectures include screenings and visiting screenwriters.
Section 19431: The Imagination of Animation. Animation is one of the most varied, popular and profitable forms of entertainment made today. “Cartoons” are serious business where filmmakers examine how timeless stories are built, institutions can encourage creativity, and cultural icons are leveraged for fun and profit. Up, Shrek and more.
Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism
COMMUNICATION
COMM 200 Communication and Social Science (4 units)
Description: Social scientific inquiry into human communication; core theories of message production and reception in interpersonal, group and organizational contexts.
COMM 204 Public Speaking (4 units)
Description: Principles and practices of effective oral communication; analysis of the speaking-listening process; selection and organization of speech materials; use of new presentation technologies.
COMM 206 Communication and Culture (4 units)
Description: Examines cultural institutions, ideologies, artifacts, and productions; role of culture in everyday life; cultural studies as methodology; culture and power.
COMM 302 Persuasion (4 units)
Description: Theories and research in social influence; strategies and tactics of persuasive communications in such settings as politics, public relations, advertising, business.
COMM 304 Interpersonal Communication (4 units)
Description: Analysis of face-to-face interaction; role of communication in the development, maintenance and destruction of relationships; communication processes in managing interpersonal conflict.
COMM 310 Media and Society (4 units)
Description:Interplay between media and society, including family and children’s socialization, inter-group relations and community, pornography and violence, gender and race, media ethics, conduct of politics.
COMM 324m Intercultural Communication (4 units)
Description:Cultural variables and social psychological processes that influence intercultural interaction; relationship between communication and culture in diverse settings including business, medicine, and education.
COMM 355 Advertising and Communication (4 units)
Description:Advertising as a mode of communication; US advertising history and institutions; economic and policy contexts (domestic and global); critical analysis of advertising texts.
COMM 371 Censorship and the Law: From the Press to Cyberspace (4 units)
Description:The study of current and historical battles over the limits of free expression from press and public parks to television, movies, music and cyberspace.
COMM 375 Business and Professional Communication (4 units)
Description: Oral and written communication skills demanded in the workplace including informative and persuasive speeches; interviewing; team communication; and training material preparation. Recommended preparation: COMM 204
COMM 381 Issues in Contemporary Sport (4 units)
Description: Explores social, political and ethical issues in elite sports and how issues are addressed through popular media; examination includes the relationship between sports and politics.
JOURNALISM
JOUR 330 Photojournalism (4 units)
Description: Emphasis on fundamental skills necessary for photojournalism including camera techniques, story ideas and digital darkroom.
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.
h4>THTR 222 Stage Make-up (2 units)
Description: Principles of stage make-up materials and skills allowing the actors to enhance their features and techniques for moderate and extreme aging, injuries, and character roles.
THTR 295 Theatre in America (2 units)
Description: Current state of American theatre, through a study of acting, playwriting, criticism, stage design, lighting and dramatic styles.
THTR 365 Playwriting I (2 units)
Description: Essential elements of playwriting through weekly assignments, students’ initiative, occasional productions of scenes, and extensive classroom analysis.
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 476mw African American Theatre, Dance, and Performance (4 units)
Description: A survey of African American theatre and cultural performance traditions as a reflection of both African American culture and American history.
THTR 499 Special Topics (2, 3, 4 units)
Description: Studies in selected areas of theatre art. Intensive practice in role and script interpretation and its psychological relationship to the audience.
Keck School of Medicine of USC
INTERDEPARTMENTAL MEDICINE
INTD 551 Pathobiology of Disease (4 units)
Description: This course builds on knowledge acquired in INTD 550 and covers, at an advanced level, a broad range of disease processes including inflammatory disorders, cancer, environmental diseases, development disorders, and aging. It is a combination of classical, morphology-based pathology and of recent advances in molecular mechanisms of disease processes. Prior knowledge of normal histology is required.
PATHOLOGY
PATH 553 Methods in Molecular Pathology (2 units)
Description: Includes advanced techniques in cell biology, molecular biology, and data analysis. This course provides a practical approach to acquaint graduate students with current methodologies and applications used in biomedical research.
PATH 575 Frontiers in Pathology (2 units)
Description: Weekly research lectures by leading investigators in the field of homeostatic response to injury such as cell death, inflammation, fibrosis and regeneration.
This course can be taken for a maximum of 8 units and is open to faculty, staff, postdocs, graduate and medical students, and clinical residents and fellows. It is sponsored by the NIH P50-funded Southern California Research Center for ALPD and Cirrhosis.
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.
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 324 University Band (1 units)
Description: Rehearsal and performance of standard repertoire. Open to all students by audition. 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 HISTORY AND LITERATURE
MUHL 302 Musical Cultures of the World (4 units)
Description:Survey of the world’s major musical cultures; aesthetic and social values, theoretical systems, musical style and structure, instruments, and performance traditions.
MUHL 315x Music and Culture (4 units)
Description:Gateway to the B.A. degree in music. Western and non-Western music in its sociocultural context. Not available for credit to B.M. majors. Ability to read music highly recommended.
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.)
MUIN 495 Web Design for the Music Industry (4 units)
Description: A hands-on experience in which students work in teams to create web sites specifically designed to promote, market, and sell musical artists products online.
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.)
MTEC 392a Acoustics and Speaker Design (2 units)
Description: Principles of acoustics relating to studio construction, wall treatment, and furnishings; natural reverberation, speaker materials, passive and active crossovers and time alignment. Prerequisite: MTEC 275. (Duplicates credit in former MUIN 392a.)
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.
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 Beginning Harp (2 units, max 8)
Description: Basic instruction in the fundamentals of solo harp playing, note reading, and basic musicianship. Open to music and non-music majors.
PERFORMANCE (VOCAL ARTS)
MPVA 141 Class Voice (2 units, max 4)
Description: Introduction to the fundamental principles of singing: breath control, tone production, diction, and the use of appropriate song material.
MPVA 241 Intermediate Class Voice (2 units, max 4)
Description: Continued development of the fundamentals of singing, diction, and repertoire building. Prerequisite: MPVA 141.
MPVA 402 Musical Theatre Workshop (2 units, max 8)
Description: Stylistic and technical features of dramatic and musical elements involved in performance of American musical and standard operetta repertory; staging of scenes.
SACRED MUSIC
MSCR 475 Introduction to Jewish Music (2 units)
Description: Development of Jewish music from biblical times to the present, with emphasis on liturgical practices, traditions of itinerant musicians and the adaptability of community song.
SCHOOL OF MUSIC
MUSC 255 Songwriting I (2 units)
Description: Development of musical and lyrical skills, composing, listening, analysis, and critiques of popular original music.
MUSC 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 410m Electronic Dance Music (4 units)
Description: The study of EDMs origins and development, focusing on the cultural and technological contexts that have influenced the genre.
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 465 Music, Television and American Culture (4 units)
Description: An exploration of the social and cultural impact of music written for, popularized by, or exploited by American television from the 1950s through today.