USC University of Southern California Schedule of Classes

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.

American Language Institute

ALI 103x Elective Courses in English as a Second Language for International Students (2-8 units)

Description: Specialized tutorial classes in listening, speaking, reading, or writing. A maximum of 4 units may be counted toward a degree. Graded CR/NC.

ALI 254 Advanced Oral Skills (2 units)

Description: Required for international students whose oral skills are assessed to be at the advanced level by the International Student English Examination (ISE) or previous ALI course. Graded CR/NC.

ALI 255 Advanced Writing Skills (2 units)

Description: Required for international students whose writing skills are assessed to be at the advanced level by the International Student English Examination (ISE) or previous ALI course. Graded CR/NC.

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. Overview and use of software types. Lecture and laboratory.

ARCH 214a History of Architecture (4 units)

Description: History of building and cities, social, political, technical, formal, aesthetic dimensions in western and non-western traditions: a: antiquity through the Middle Ages.

ARCH 306 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 307 Digital Tools for Architecture (2 units)

Description: Main topics include building information modeling, geometric and analytical modeling, among other applications in digital design. Lecture and laboratory. Recommended preparation: ARCH 207 or equivalent computer experience.

ARCH 326 The Modern Movement in Architecture (4 units)

Description: Major theories of modern architecture are presented by studying the work of masters such as: Gropius, Mies van der Rohe, Corbusier, and Kahn.

ARCH 419 Architectural Sustainability Tools and Methods (3 units)

Description: Lectures, comparative studies and exercises on international architectural sustainability rating and certification systems.

ARCH 422 Architectural Photography (2 units)

Description: Perceiving and documenting the built environment through the perspective and frame of the camera. Abilities with 35mm and large format cameras, lighting, and black and white lab techniques will be developed. Recommended preparation: knowledge of 35mm camera.

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 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 533 Urban Landscape Case Studies (2 units)

Description: Lectures, discussion, and individual research on the physical, formal, and spatial characteristics of historical urban centers.

ARCH 535 Landscape Reclamation: Construction Materials (3 units)

Description: Assessing existing conditions and site repair imperatives; opportunities for reestablishment of natural system continuities; alternative techniques for soil remediation, regrading, and stabilization; selection of materials and methods of construction for site development.

ARCH 551 Conservation Methods and Materials (4 units)

Description: Concepts and techniques for building conservation including identification of treatments, recordation and research, material properties and behavior, building forensics, and implementation of preservation projects.

ARCH 552 Introduction to Historic Site Documentation (2 units)

Description: Survey of basic guidelines and standards for documentation in historic preservation, including cultural resource surveys, historic structures reports and Historic American Building Survey and Historic American Engineering Record recordation.

ARCH 563 Architecture in the Urban Landscape: Comparative Theories (2 units)

Description: A comparative study of design theories of the physical, formal and spatial characteristics of historic city types from ancient to modern.

Art History

AHIS 001x Web Site Authoring and Design (2 units)

Description: Course focuses on the World Wide Web as a teaching tool. Students will construct a Web site as a final project, utilizing a hands-on computer laboratory. Not available for degree credit. Graded CR/NC.

AHIS 127g Arts and Civilizations of Ancient Middle and South America (4 units)

Description: A survey of the art, architecture, and archaeology of the diverse array of peoples and cultures in ancient Mesoamerica and the South American Andean Mountains.

AHIS 304m Italian Renaissance Art: Old Masters and Old Mistresses (4 units)

Description: An introduction to Italian Renaissance art with emphasis on the role of gender and sexuality in the creation of "masterpieces."

AHIS 499 Special Topics (2-4 units)

Description: Comprehensive exploration of particular aspects of the history of art.

Business

BUSINESS ENTREPRENEURSHIP

BAEP 460 Seminar in Entrepreneurship (2 units)

Description: The intimate issues of entrepreneurship. Internalization of the key decisions that an individual needs for creating and building the entrepreneurial organization.

Section #1: Entrepreneur Seminar with Paul Orfalea, founder of Kinko’s
Section #2: Entrepreneurship in Developing Countries, seminar with Jessica Jackley, founder of Kiva.org

Entrepreneurship is a spark that produces an impactful force for societal change. It produces significant value on many levels from basic job to the establishment of lasting institutions. This course profiles visionary entrepreneurs and the companies they have launched in countries across the globe.The students will be given opportunities to become familiar with the most crucial themes and elements that have led to success for entrepreneurial ventures in key regions around the world. Students will examine the stages of development of any entrepreneurial venture, and explore the unique adjustments, exceptions, challenges and opportunities that exist in each of these stages across cultures and country boundaries. Students will leave the course with a greater understanding of what it takes for entrepreneurial ventures to thrive anywhere on the globe.

FINANCE AND BUSINESS ECONOMICS

FBE 428m Principles of Employment Law (4 units)

Description: Comprehensive survey of employment and labor law topics arising in the contemporary American workplace.

FBE 429 International Business Law (4 units)

Description: Introductory course on the legal and regulatory environment of international business transactions.

INFORMATION AND OPERATIONS MANAGEMENT

IOM 431 Business Information Systems (4 units)

Description: Fundamentals of computer networks, protocols, TCP/IP and the Internet; introduction to electronic commerce, Web application development (CGI scripting, Java, and JavaScript); discussion of security issues.

IOM 435 Business Database Systems (4 units)

Description: Computer-based management of data including data structures, conceptual data modeling, logical data modeling, structured query language (SQL), and physical optimization of high performance databases.

IOM 437 Technology-Enabled Global Businesses, Markets and Sourcing (4 units)

Description: Global markets for products, services, and strategies enabled by technology; spans businesses ranging from financial services, media and entertainment, and technology to specialized manufactured products.

IOM 455 Project Management (4 units)

Description: Topics related to project management in a variety of industries such as real estate projects, new product launch, plant location, etc.

IOM 499 Special Topics (2-4, max 8 units)

Description: Selected topics reflecting current trends and recent developments in information systems, operations management, and statistics

Section title: The Business of Interactive Digital Media (4 units)

Chemistry

CHEM 201Lgx Chemistry in the Environment, Energy and Society (4 units)

Description: A range of issues where chemistry impacts society will be explored. Topics such as global warming, pollution, energy utilization and genetic engineering will be covered. Not available for credit for chemistry or biological sciences majors.

Cinematic Arts

ANIMATION

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 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.

CRITICAL STUDIES

CTCS 190 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 include "Raging Bull," "Sunset Blvd.," "Singin' in the Rain," “All About Eve,” and "No Country for Old Men."
Instructor: Drew Casper

CTCS 191 Introduction to Television and Video (4 units)

Description: Exploration of the economic, technological, aesthetic, and ideological characteristics of the television 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."
Instructor: Tara McPherson

CTCS 201 History of the International Cinema II (4 units)

Description: The development of international cinema from World War II to the present. Lectures, screenings, and discussions.
Instructor: David E. James

CTCS 303 Japanese Anime (2 units)

Description: Explores the visual, dramatic and social conventions of Japanese animation in film and television. Examines anime fan communities, manga and their impact.

The course studies the impact of fan communities on the production and distribution of anime in a global context as well as the visual, dramatic, and narrative conventions of Japanese animation in television series and film, and their relationship to Manga. Directors highlighted include Kon, Miyazaki, Takahata and Oshii. TV Screenings include "Bleach," "Serial Experiments Lain," "Paranoia Agent," and "Fullmetal Alchemist."
Instructor: Ellen Seiter

CTCS 464 Film and/or Television Genres (4, max 8 units)

Description: Rigorous examination of film and/or television genres: history, aesthetics, cultural context, social significance, and critical methodologies.

The Film Musical
Bodies dance in rhythm and hearts beat in rhyme as the boy gets the girl, the show gets on the road, and name, fame, and fortune are around every corner. Screenings may include: "Sweeney Todd," "Shall We Dance?" "The King and I," and "Funny Face."
Instructor: Drew Casper

Rock 'N' Film: The Pop Musical
This course will consider the way American and British popular music and the rituals and personalities connected with it have been represented in film and television since the 1950s; the way popular music has been recruited by cinema and television to underline or supply the meaning of the visuals; and any other connection between popular music and film/television.
Instructor: David E. James

CTCS 466 Theatrical Film Symposium (4 units)

Description: Lectures and readings on creative problems in the motion picture industry; current films; interviews with visiting producers, directors, writers, performers.

View Hollywood films before their theatrical release and meet with the creators for Q&A sessions led by film critic and historian Leonard Maltin. Past semesters featured "Crash," "300," "Pan's Labyrinth" and "Casino Royale," and guests Alexander Payne, Billy Bob Thornton, Guillermo del Toro, and Forest Whitaker.
Instructor: Leonard Maltin

CTCS 467 Television Symposium (4 units)

Description: Lectures and readings on creative problems in the television industry; study of current and historical trends, interviews with producers, directors, writers and performers.

An exciting counterpart to Theatrical Film Symposium focusing on the television industry and taught by Pulitzer Prize-winning TV critic Howard Rosenberg. View selected TV programs and engage in a Q&A with their creators. Past guests include Damon Lindelof ("Lost"), Jenji Kohan ("Weeds"), and Doug Ellin ("Entourage").
Instructor: Howard Rosenberg

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.

RKO and the Studio System
Using RKO Radio Pictures as our test case, this course will examine the relationship between art and commerce during the studio system era. Katharine Hepburn, David Selznick, Fred Astaire, Ginger Rogers, Orson Welles, Val Lewton, Robert Mitchum and Howard Hughes are a few of the famous figures who shaped the history of RKO. Among the films to be screened: "King Kong," "Swing Time," "Gunga Din," "The Magnificent Ambersons," "Cat People," and "Out of the Past."
Instructor: Rick Jewell

Unforgettable Film
What makes a film “unforgettable?” Why do certain movies leave an indelible mark on your memory, while others fade faster than the taste of popcorn leaves your mouth? This class builds students’ skills in the art of critical examination, regardless of style or genre. Screenings will range from bona fide masterpieces to campy cult classics, from lavish musicals to no-budget horror, and from highbrow art cinema to lowbrow comedy.
Instructor: Rene Bruckner

INTERACTIVE MEDIA

CTIN 309 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.

Lectures will address the cultural history and theories of videogames. Students will play, analyze, interpret and discuss works from 1961 to the present, while cultivating a critical language for videogame aesthetics.

CTIN 404L Usability Testing for Games (2 units)

Description: Concepts and methods of usability assessment. The emphasis will be on understanding the issues surrounding game interfaces, and utilizing usability assessment methods.

As games become more sophisticated in their visual design, features and cultural impact, the study of how we interact with them and understand them becomes an essential aspect of our media literacy. The emphasis will be on understanding game interfaces and translating them into design recommendations, but the class will also address the development of interfaces as both a cultural and aesthetic practice.

CTIN 406L Sound Design for Games (2 units)

Description: Introduction to the techniques, terminology, and implementation of sounds in games, including establishing a sense of place and concepts of realistic sound.

Audio is one of the most important elements in selling a game's vision to the player. In our final project, we apply the concepts covered in the course to fully sonify a game from start to finish.

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.

Students will experience the fundamentals of game design through the study of classic games in both traditional and electronic form as well as design their own games. They will play/test and critique fellow students' games. Designed to provide the foundation of knowledge for becoming a professional game designer.

PRODUCTION

CTPR 327 Motion Picture Camera (3 units)

Description: Use of motion picture camera equipment; 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. 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.

Exploration of aesthetics, theory, history and procedures of motion picture editing for many styles of film. Students view award-winning shorts and sections of features to illustrate different editing styles and edit a series of scenes using the latest Avid Express DV equipment.

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 409 Practicum in Television Production (2, 4, max 8 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.

Get hands-on experience at Trojan Vision, USC's TV channel that produces local and network programming. Work in the state-of-the-art Zemeckis Center for Digital Arts to learn all aspects of television production and create your own shows with professionals from the Hollywood television industry.

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.

WRITING

CTWR 412 Introduction to Screenwriting (2 units)

Description: Introduction to the formal elements of writing the short film.

Learn the basic building blocks of any screenplay – visualization, character, dialogue, scene structure, conflict and sequence. After writing short premises, students will progress to combining scenes into sequences and a short script.

Comparative Literature

COLT 303 Globalization: Culture, Change, Resistance (4 units)

Description: Cultural dimensions of issues in globalization: migration, diaspora, terrorism, communications, climate change, collectives, production and technology, money and exchange.

COLT 373 Literature and Film (4 units)

Description: Examines literature and film as distinct modes of representation, narration, and structuring of time, language, memory, and visuality.

COLT 374gm Women Writers in Europe and America (4 units)

Description: Introduction to works of major women writers from the Middle Ages to the 20th century in their literary, social, and cultural contexts.

Earth Sciences

GEOL 105Lg Planet Earth (4 units)

Description: Geologic structure and evolution of planet earth. Principles of plate tectonics, rocks and minerals, processes of mountain building, continent and ocean formation, earthquakes, volcanism, development of landforms by running water and glaciers. Lecture, 3 hours; laboratory, 2 hours. One all-day or two-day field trip required.

GEOL 107Lxg Oceanography (4 units)

Description: Physical, chemical, and geological character of the oceans and ocean basins. Origin of the oceans. Ocean processes and agents. Economic value of the oceans. Lecture, 3 hours; laboratory, 2 hours. One all-day field trip required. Not available for major credit to earth or geological sciences majors.

GEOL 150Lxg Climate Change (4 units)

Description: Climate systems from the beginning of earth history to the present; tools and techniques used to reconstruct prehistoric climate records; effects of climate variations on development of life forms on earth. Not available for major credit to earth or geological sciences majors.

East Asian Languages and Cultures

EALC 110g East Asian Humanities: The Great Tradition (4 units)

Description: Introduction to the major humanities traditions of China, Japan, and Korea through an examination of representative works drawn from literature, aesthetics, philosophy, religion, and historical writing.

EALC 130g East Asian Ethical Thought (4 units)

Description: Introduction to the history of Chinese, Japanese, and Korean ethical thought; perspectives on human nature, historical writing, religious options, and aesthetic implications. Conducted in English.

EALC 145g Introduction to Chinese Culture, Art and Literature (4 units)

Description: Introduction to the civilization, art and literature of pre-modern China through the lens of the cultural products of identity.

EALC 340g Japanese Civilization (4 units)

Description: Survey of the main characteristics and development of art, literature, philosophy, religion, political and social institutions through different periods. Conducted in English.

Fine Arts

FINE ARTS

FA 101a Drawing (4 units)

Description: a: An introduction to drawing, both skill and perception oriented, as the basic tool for all the visual arts.

FA 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.

FA 105 Painting I (4 units)

Description: Practical introduction to oil and acrylic pigments, painting equipment, processes, and media. Also, primary experience in: color, composition and perception through representational and abstract painting.

FA 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.

FA 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.

FA 136 Modeling and Mold Making (2 units)

Description: Introduction to plaster mold making using clay and wax for both ceramics and sculpture. Exploration of casting materials.

FA 140x A Cultural Guide to Los Angeles (2 units)

Description: An experiential and critical survey of the cultural phenomena that make up Los Angeles: dance, music, theater, film; emphasis on visual arts. Not available for major credit to fine arts majors. Graded CR/NC.

FA 207ax Two-Dimensional Art Workshop (2, max 8 units)

Description: Studio practice to develop standards of judgment and appreciation of the visual arts. Not available for credit to studio majors.

FA 208ax Three-Dimensional Art Workshop (2, max 8 units)

Description: Studio practice to develop standards of judgment and appreciation of the visual arts. Not available for credit to studio majors.

FA 215 Introduction to Digital Video and Interactivity (4 units)

Description: A course in digital imaging, which through studio practice and critical inquiry, explores the implications and potential of digitally-based image making.

FA 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.

PUBLIC ART STUDIES

PAS 371 Art in the Public Realm: Contemporary Issues (4 units)

Description: Critical frameworks and theoretical perspectives of contemporary public art issues explored through case studies and discussions with artists, architects, and designers engaging the public realm.

Geography

GEOG 401 Sustainable Cities and Regions (4 units)

Description: Alternative approaches to understanding the city and urban growth. Technical and political characteristics of urban environmental problems and sustainable approaches to urbanization and urban life.

GEOG 410 Urban Geography (4 units)

Description: Cities as geographic phenomena: location, size, spacing, structure, functions, form, and shape; regional variations; urban areas as central places.

GEOG 431 California's Changing Landscapes (4 units)

Description: Type study of a region; distribution of physical and cultural phenomena; delimitation into natural regions; analysis of human-environment interaction in regions of the state. Field trips.

GEOG 477 Water Resources (4 units)

Description: Theory and techniques for the evaluation of water resources. Details of the hydrologic cycle, water use, and hazards. Emphasis on problem solving.

GEOG 481 Map Design and Analysis (4 units)

Description: Computer-based map design principles, especially for statistical maps; use of maps in geographical, social scientific, and environmental research.

Gerontology

GERO 340 Policy, Values, and Power in an Aging Society (4 units)

Description: How Americans' political values affect public policy. Studies of landmark legislation to explore the social contract between generations and role of governments in social welfare.

GERO 380m Diversity in Aging (4 units)

Description: Exploring diversity in the older population and variability in the human aging process.

GERO 411L Physiology, Nutrition, and Aging (2 units)

Description: Explores nutritional needs and the physiological, psychological, and sociological relationships to nutrition. Laboratory experiments in assessment and evaluation.

GERO 412L Exercise and Aging: Principles and Programs (2 units)

Description: Physiological, psychological, and sociological aspects of exercise. Laboratory involvement in assessment and evaluation of fitness.

GERO 414 Neurobiology of Aging (4 units)

Description: Age-related changes in nervous system structure and function; relationship of brain changes to changes in cognitive function and perception; Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. Lecture and discussion. Prerequisite: BISC 212L or BISC 221L.

GERO 416 Health Issues in Adulthood (4 units)

Description: Physiological, psychological, and social health problems of adults as they are impacted by health choices throughout life.

GERO 423 Psychological Development through Autobiography (4 units)

Description: Introduction to autobiography as a source of individual psychological development, with emphasis on integration of cognitive, emotional, and decision processes.

GERO 437 Social and Psychological Aspects of Death and Dying (4 units)

Description: Introduction and critical survey of the current issues, concepts, and research of the social and psychological aspects of death and dying.

GERO 475 Ethical Issues in Geriatric Health Care (4 units)

Description: Biomedical ethical issues that are encountered in working with geriatric patients. Examination of ethical theory and the application of theory to clinical settings.

GERO 481 Case Management for Older Adults (4 units)

Description: Overview of the concepts, characteristics, skills, and clinical issues of case management in a variety of settings serving older persons.

Health Promotion and Disease Prevention Studies

HP 101 Current Issues in Medical Education and Healthcare (2 units)

Description: Current critical issues in healthcare delivery; strategies to succeed in medical school and as physicians. Graded C/NC.

HP 402 Maternal and Child Health (4 units)

Description: Health issues of women of childbearing age from pre-pregnancy through the postpartum period, and of children from their development in utero through early adolescence. Recommended preparation: PSYC 100.

HP 422 AIDS in Society (4 units)

Description: Provides a broad examination of issues in HIV/AIDS, including behavioral, social, biological, clinical and ethical dimensions of the pandemic in the U.S. and elsewhere.

Institute for Multimedia Literacy

IML 101 Honors in Multimedia Scholarship: The Languages of New Media I (4 units)

Description: An introduction to the expressive range of screen languages in their cultural, historical, and technological contexts.

IML 340 Honors in Multimedia Scholarship: The Praxis of New Media (2 units)

Description: An intermediate level blend of theory and practice that approaches scholarly multimedia work in the context of its cultural and technological environment. Open to all students. Recommended Preparation: IML 101, IML 104 or MDA 140.

IML 490x Directed Research (2-8, max 8 units)

Description: Individual research and production. Not available for degree credit. Prerequisite: IML 101 or IML 104.

Journalism

JOUR 201 History of News in Modern America (4 units)

Description: Understanding news today. A survey of how news is gathered, weighed, and disseminated and how historical events have shaped news in the 20th century.

This course offers a comprehensive look at the evolution of news and development of journalism in America.

JOUR 210x Basics of Broadcast Newsroom Production for Non-Majors Only (2, max 4 units)

Description: Introduction to broadcast newsroom production; preparation and treatment of form and content; procedures, problems, ethics, and practice in planning and producing a nightly newscast. Open to non-journalism majors only. Not available for degree credit to journalism majors. Graded CR/NC.

This class is taught in conjunction with the production of Annenberg TV News, USC's student-run nightly news operation.



JOUR 330 Photojournalism (4 units)

Description: Emphasis on fundamental skills necessary for photojournalism including camera techniques, story ideas and digital darkroom.

Students will learn the basic principles and ethics of visual journalism, with an eye toward the diverse perspectives existing throughout our community. Students should have access to a 35mm film or digital camera. 



JOUR 340 Introduction to Advertising (4 units)

Description: History and development of advertising; basic advertising campaigns showing relationships of marketing, creative, print and electronic media.

Students study many areas of advertising, including television, radio, print, out-of-home interactive, campaign development and production to execution.


JOUR 343 Advertising Design and Production (4 units)

Description: Production of advertising materials; emphasis on the creation and design of advertising elements. Prerequisite: JOUR 340.

Students will learn the visual elements of the creative process, concept, typography, color, design, headlines, theme lines and tag lines. Students also will gain knowledge in the art of logo development and icons.

JOUR 350 Principles of Public Relations (4 units)

Description: Theories, processes, and techniques involved in planning and implementing programs designed to influence public opinion and behavior through socially responsible performance and mutually satisfactory communication.

Students participate in analyzing public relations programs for both the profit and non-profit sectors. Team case presentations, brainstorming and a term paper examining the public relations functions of a specific organization are integrated into the class.

JOUR 373 The Ethics of Television Journalism (4 units)

Description: Ethical questions in television journalism; the application of these moral dilemmas to prepare students for dealing with similar issues in their lives.

By exploring specific decisions in the reporting of news events, and on what basis these decisions were made, students will be able to examine the moral values of those who work in television journalism and other forms of journalism and determine how the ethics of the profession dominate what events are covered and are not covered, how they are covered and why they are covered.

JOUR 380 Sports, Business and Media in Today's Society (4 units)

Description: An inside look at the symbiotic relationship of sports and the media – from the interdependence of sports and media, to the coverage of sports in newspapers, magazines, radio and television. The economic and ethical issues involved, the conflicts of interest, the history and current status of sports coverage in American media today.

Students will get an opportunity each week to interact with some of the most accomplished, respected and influential figures in sports and the media today.

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.

Guests will include entertainment executives, celebrities, publicists, journalists and other media experts.

JOUR 422 Visual Journalism (4 units)

Description: Emphasis on photographic storytelling in print, video and Web-based media; understanding of visual thinking and imagery techniques.

Students should have access to a digital camera.

JOUR 451 Promotional Public Relations (4 units)

Description: Principles and practices of public rela­tions as a basic component in the promotion and marketing of goods and services; regula­tory considerations; consumerism. Prerequisite: JOUR 350.

JOUR 454 Sports Public Relations (2 units)

Description: Introduction to the field of sports information and promotion, including lectures, media assignments, role-playing, and presentations by sports professionals. Junior standing.

The course will look at the television, team, newspaper, radio, agency and Internet aspects of the sports public relations field.

JOUR 457 The Role of Celebrity in Public Relations (4 units)

Description: Understanding of the his­tory and application of celebrity in public rela­tions, focusing on the entertainment industry and the notoriety attached to politics and the media.

This course examines the development of publicity, public relations and promotions industry, and how the celebrity is produced, promoted and traded within the American mass media.

JOUR 465 Latino News Media in the United States (4 units)

Description: History and growing impor­tance of Latino print and broadcast news media in covering immigration, discrimina­tion, culture, social differences and other aspects of U.S. Latino life.

JOUR 466m People of Color and the News Media (4 units)

Description: Reporting and portrayal of people of color in the United States; impact of racial diversity on media, employment and access, and development of media for individuals and communities of color. Open to non-majors.

JOUR 499 Special Topics (2-4, max 8 units)

Description: Selected Topics in journalism.

News Media and War (4 units)
Given the pervasiveness of conflict and the public’s reliance on the news media’s coverage of it, journalists should understand that their responsibilities extend beyond the mechanics of combat reporting. They should also be able to analyze the political context of conflict; be familiar with the history of news coverage of wars and lessons from past coverage; recognize attempts to manipulate the news media; understand “objectivity” and its limits; consider journalists’ humanitarian duties; and other such matters that are the foundation of conflict coverage. This course will address these and related topics by studying historical and policy-oriented facets of covering conflicts ranging from global war to localized terrorism.

Kinesiology

EXSC 202L Principles of Nutrition and Exercise (2 units)

Description: Fundamental knowledge of proper nutrition for optimal health performance. Concepts of weight loss, gain; understanding of cardiorespiratory functioning. Laboratory experiments; body composition evaluation, energy metabolism. Lecture, 2 hours; laboratory, 2 hours.

EXSC 203L Individualized Exercise Prescription (2 units)

Description: Principles and theories related to exercise prescription; programs of weight-training, circuit-training, aerobics, flexibility, high and low-intensity training guidelines; safeguards and effectiveness. Lecture, 2 hours; laboratory, 2 hours.

EXSC 310 Sociopsychological Aspects of Sport and Physical Activity (4 units)

Description: Examination of the individual in a social environment related to sport and physical activity; personality, motivation, attitude, and group behavior viewed in physical activity contexts.

Linguistics

LING 110Lg In a Word (4 units)

Description: Words as a gateway to the human mind. How words are stored, comprehended and retrieved. How words are constructed. Words and concepts. Word and social constructs. The processing and the acquisition of words in normal and atypical children and adults.

LING 115g Language, Society, and Culture (4 units)

Description: Discourse patterns among diverse social groups in institutional and interpersonal settings; interrelationships among language practices and gender, socioeconomic status, ethnicity; social structures and cultural values as reflected in language policies and practices. Concurrent enrollment: WRIT 140.

LING 122 Arabic I (4 units)

Description: Introduction to current Arabic; oral practice, hearing and reading comprehension; the grammar necessary for simple spoken and written expression. Lecture, classroom drill, laboratory practice.

LING 210 Introduction to Linguistics (4 units)

Description: Empirical study of the sounds and structures of human language; syntax and semantics; language change; linguistic universals.

LING 275Lg Language and Mind (4 units)

Description: Language within cognitive science: speech physiology and acoustics, language acquisition, reading, language disorders, perception and mental representation of words, linguistic diversity and computer analysis of speech.

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.

MUCO 130bx Basics of Music Theory (3 units)

Description: Introduction to music theory; scales, intervals, principles of common practice and popular music harmony; melodic, harmonic, and structural analysis; 20th century developments. Not available for credit to Bachelor of Music students except Performance (Popular Music) majors.

MUCO 221bx Composition for Non-Majors (2 units)

Description: Introduction to the composition of concert music. Includes set exercises, free composition, study of selected compositions. Intended for interested, qualified students not majoring in composition. Not available for degree credit to composition majors. Recommended preparation: MUCO 130bx, MUCO 133b.

ELECTROACOUSTIC MEDIA

MUEA 474ax Electronic Synthesizer Techniques (2-4 units)

Description: Electronic music procedures in a multi-track studio.

JAZZ STUDIES

MUJZ 100xm Jazz: A History of America’s Music (4 units)

Description: Gateway to the minor in Jazz Studies. Historical evolution of jazz from its origins to present day; elements of musical structures and jazz styles revealed through the study of recorded examples, live performances and video. Not available for credit to jazz studies majors.

MUJZ 150x Beginning Jazz Improvisation (2, max 4 units)

Description: Development of beginning improvisational skills, including modal and the ii-V7-I chord progression, through instrumental performance. Recommended to non-jazz majors. Not available for credit to jazz studies majors. Recommended preparation: demonstration of major scales of eighth notes at a tempo of 120 mm.

MUJZ 419m The Jazz Experience Myths and Cultures (4 units)

Description: An examination of the music, culture, and mythology of jazz revealed through the study of jazz fiction, film, poetry, and recorded examples.

MUJZ 450 Intermediate Jazz Improvisation (2, max 4 units)

Description: Development of intermediate jazz improvisational skills, starting with dominant seventh chords and progressing through the minor ii-V7-I chord progression. Not open to Jazz Studies majors. Prerequisite: MUJZ 150x.

MUSIC ENSEMBLE

MUEN 305 Vocal Jazz Ensemble (1, max 8 units)

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, max 8 units)

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, max 8 units)

Description: Rehearsal and performance of choral repertoire from all periods written for male voices. Open to all students. Graded CR/NC.

MUEN 310 University Concert Choir (1, max 8 units)

Description: Performance of choral works of all styles and periods. Open to all students by audition. Graded CR/NC.

MUEN 311 USC Oriana Choir (1, max 8 units)

Description: Rehearsal and performance of advanced chamber music written for women's voices. Open to all students by audition. Graded CR/NC.

MUEN 321 USC Concert Orchestra (1, max 8 units)

Description: Rehearsal and performance of orchestra repertoire. Open to all students, faculty, staff, and members of the community. Audition not required. Graded CR/NC.

MUEN 324 University Band (1, max 8 units)

Description: Rehearsal and performance of standard repertoire. Open to all students by audition. Graded CR/NC.

MUEN 505 Vocal Jazz Ensemble (1, max 4 units)

Description: Study and performance of vocal ensemble literature from the Jazz idiom, with emphasis on improvisational techniques. Open to graduate students by audition.

MUEN 507 University Chorus (1, max 8 units)

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, max 4 units)

Description: Rehearsal and performance of choral repertoire from all periods written for male voices. Open to all graduate students.

MUEN 510 University Concert Choir (1, max 4 units)

Description: Performance of choral works of all styles and periods. Open to all graduate students by audition.

MUEN 511 USC Oriana Choir (1, max 4 units)

Description: Rehearsal and performance of advanced chamber music written for women's voices. Open to all graduate students by audition.

MUEN 521 USC Concert Orchestra (1, max 4 units)

Description: Rehearsal and performance of orchestra repertoire. Open to all graduate students. Audition not required.

MUEN 532 Jazz Chamber Music (1, max 4 units)

Description: Preparation and performance of advanced literature for jazz chamber groups. Open to graduate students, by audition.

MUSIC HISTORY AND LITERATURE

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 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.

MUIN 287 The Business and Economics of the Recording Industry (2 units)

Description: Economic considerations of home, studio and location recording. Equipment, labor, facilities, media, legal and tax considerations will be explored.

MUIN 372bx The Business and Legal Aspects of the Music Industry (4 units)

Description: A survey of the major elements that support the music industry. History, copyright, music contracts, radio, record companies, managers, music publishing and communication. Not available for major credit to B.M. and B.S. music industry majors.

MUIN 425 Live Music Production and Promotion (4 units)

Description: A survey of the presentation of the live musical experience. Both classical and popular concert presentation will be examined including venue selection, promotion and security.

MUIN 442 Operation of the Radio Studio (2 units)

Description: An in-depth study of radio studio technical operations. Topics include consoles, microphones, transmission considerations, networks, satellites, and digital and analog production situations. Prerequisite: MUIN 275ab.

MUIN 446a Computer Assisted Recording and Editing (2 units)

Description: Techniques and applications of recording and editing sound on personal computers. Hardware, software, editing for song, sound effects and dialog for film.

MUIN 495 Music Industry, Broadcast and the Internet (4 units)

Description: An exploration of the effects of new technologies, laws, economic models, media (Internet, mobile, satellite), the decline of traditional broadcasting, and convergence with the music industry. Recommended preparation: MUIN 360 or MUIN 372bx.

PERFORMANCE (GUITAR)

MPGU 120abcd 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 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 background music required.

PERFORMANCE (KEYBOARD)

MPKS 150ab Beginning Piano (2 units)

Description: Techniques of performance, note reading, and basic musicianship. Not open to music majors.

PERFORMANCE (POPULAR MUSIC)

MPPM 100 Popular Music Forum (1, max 4 units)

Description: A weekly lecture series addressing a wide range of special topics and issues confronting the popular musician. Graded CR/NC.

MPPM 120 Popular Music Performance I (2, max 8 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 250 Keyboard Proficiency for the Popular Musician (2 units)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 430m Music and the Holocaust (4 units)

Description: Study of the creation and performance of Holocaust-related music from 1933 to the present, including interaction with other arts.

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. Prerequisite: MUSC 355.

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.

Occupational Therapy

OT 220 Lifestyle Design: Introduction to Occupational Therapy (2 units)

Description: Introduction to theoretical concepts concerning the relationship of engagement in activities (occupations) to health and well being. Application of these perspectives to students' own lives.

OT 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.

OT 310x 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. Not available for major credit to occupational therapy majors.

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.

OT 325 The Biosocial Context of Human Occupation (4 units)

Description: Hormonal and contextual (social, physical, and temporal) correlates of human occupations and psychological states; collection and interpretation of field data using innovative research methods.

OT 333x Sports Ethics (4 units)

Description: Critically examines ethical issues central to the world of sports that range from matters of fair play and cheating to performance-enhancing drugs and gene-doping. Not available for major credit for occupational therapy students.

Physical Education

PHED 102a Weight Training (1-1 units)

Description: a: Improvement of body shape, muscle endurance, and muscle strength; understanding of weight training and nutrition principles that can be utilized for future weight training development.

PHED 104ab Self-Defense (1-1 units)

Description: a: Basic instruction of self-defense for beginners; strategies for standing and ground fighting situations with and without weapons. b: Intermediate instruction involving more advanced fighting strategies and techniques.

PHED 106a Physical Conditioning (1-1 units)

Description: a: Improvement in cardiorespiratory endurance, body composition, muscle endurance and flexibility; running, circuit training, resistance exercises; fitness principles and nutrition to develop individualized program.

PHED 110a Swimming (1-1 units)

Description: a: Instruction and practice in basic strokes for beginners and intermediate swimmers; elementary springboard diving; water safety techniques; endurance training as a fitness program.

PHED 120ab Yoga (1-1 units)

Description: a: Introduction to meditation, breathing techniques and postures as a means towards relaxation; increase muscle strength and flexibility; understanding of basic anatomy and nutritional guidelines. (Duplicates credit in former PHED 120.) b: A continuing study of intermediate and advanced yoga postures, breathing techniques and meditation as a means toward relaxation and stress-reduction.

PHED 129a Aerobics (1-1 units)

Description: a: Aerobic exercise focusing on cardiorespiratory endurance encompassing a variety of training methods such as high/low impact aerobics, body sculpting, circuit training and nutritional guidelines.

PHED 131 Step Aerobics (1 unit)

Description: Development of physical fitness components through step aerobics; total body workout utilizing step movements and body sculpting exercises.

PHED 139ab Volleyball (1-1 units)

Description: a: Intro­duction to beginning and intermediate volleyball skills, rules, game tactics, and strategies. Emphasis on the development of: passing, setting, hitting, serving, blocking, and digging. b: Advanced techniques; focus on offenses and defenses used in game situations.

PHED 140ab Tennis (1-1-1 units)

Description: a: Fundamental instruction of basic strokes for beginners and intermediate players; rules, scoring, court etiquette, strategies; singles and doubles; practice and match play. b: Reinforcement of basic strokes and instruction of advanced strokes; advanced strategies; singles and doubles; practice and match play.

PHED 150 Table Tennis (1 unit)

Description: Fundamental instruction of basic strokes for beginning and intermediate players; rules, scoring strategies; singles and doubles; practices and match play.

PHED 154a Soccer (1-1 units)

Description: a: Development of basic skills for beginners, intermediate and advanced players; rules, positioning elements of play, small group and team tactics; full field scrimmages.

PHED 155 Golf (1 unit)

Description: Basic skills development and knowledge in stance, grip and swing mechanics; course strategy; use of woods, irons and putting; history rules and etiquette.

PHED 156a Basketball (1-1 units)

Description: a: Basic skill development in dribbling, passing, shooting, rebounding and defense; rules, history, and etiquette; drills and full court games.

PHED 160 Stress Management for Healthy Living (2 units)

Description: Instruction on the effects of stress as it relates to work, sport and academics; coping strategies are discussed and applied through physical conditioning interventions.

Policy, Planning, and Development

PPD 250m Third World Cities (4 units)

Description: Gateway to the B.S., Planning and Development. The transition from traditional to modern cities in the developing world. Primacy and dualism; comparative urbanism as an expression of cultural variation; contrast in Western cities.

PPD 306 Visual Methods in Policy, Management, Planning and Development (4 units)

Description: Introduction to graphic design, photodocumentation, and geographic information systems as employed in planning, policy, and development. Visual explanations. Computer and by-hand applications.

PPD 330 Introduction to Health Care Systems (4 units)

Description: Concepts and determinants of health and illness; health care delivery organizations and programs; the role of the administrator; issues in health care financing and access; quality evaluation; future trends.

PPD 360 Urban Transportation Planning and Policy (4 units)

Description: Current transportation planning and policy critiques. Transportation planning: the relationship to urban structure; conventional and para-transit modes; analysis of local plans.

PPD 402 Management of Public and Nonprofit Organizations (4 units)

Description: Contemporary management theory; the nature of complex organizations; organizational and intergovernmental arrangements; roles and responsibilities of managers; managerial and organizational effectiveness; organizational structure and dynamics.

PPD 461 Sustainability Planning (4 units)

Description: Planning as shaped by sustainability theories; sustainability indicators; topics include water resources, air quality, land use regulations, environmental design, carrying capacity, ecological footprint analysis.

Political Science

POSC 110 Ideology and Political Conflict (4 units)

Description: Modern political ideologies; their assumptions, perceptions, and prescriptions regarding political stability and social injustice: anarchism, communism, socialism, liberalism, conservatism, and fascism.

POSC 130g Law, Politics and Public Policy (4 units)

Description: Interaction between law and politics; overview of the American legal system; value conflicts and public policy questions which arise within it. Concurrent enrollment: WRIT 140.

POSC 365 World Political Leadership (4 units)

Description: Comparative analysis of theories of power and leadership; application to leaders from western democracies, Third World, and socialist countries. Societal consequences of their policies.

POSC 395 Directed Governmental and Political Leadership Internship (2-8, max 8 units)

Description: Intensive experience in governmental and political offices. Minimum time requirement; evaluation by office and intern report required. Prerequisite: permission of Director of Institute of Politics and Government.

POSC 432 The Politics of Local Criminal Justice (4 units)

Description: Roles and behavior of major legal and political participants in the criminal justice system including the police, the legal profession, judges, and the public.

POSC 437 Mass Media and Politics (4 units)

Description: Analysis of political content of mass media. Audience response to alternative sources of political information. Consideration of the institutional and economic as well as political aspects of the mass media.

POSC 441m Cultural Diversity and the Law (4 units)

Description: Jurisprudential approach to the study of cultural differences. Consideration of circumstances under which law should accommodate cultural diversity in the United States and abroad.

POSC 444 Civil and Political Rights and Liberties (4 units)

Description: An examination of debates and controversies surrounding the nature and scope of civil rights and civil liberties. Recommended preparation: POSC 340 or POSC 440.

Slavic Languages and Literature

SLL 199 Chess and Critical Thinking (2 units)

Description: Analysis of significant chess games, reflecting societal attitudes towards science, competition, art, gender, psychology, politics, and technology. Graded CR/NC.

Theatre

THTR 499 Special Topics (2-4, max 8 units)

Description: Studies in selected areas of theatre art. Intensive practice in role and script interpretation and its psychological relationship to the audience.