3D Digital Visualization Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree (BFA)
Not all programs are offered for completion at each campus or through Berkeley College Online®. Please review the academic program pages (https://berkeleycollege.edu/academics/index.html) for information on where each program is offered. Additionally, all students may be required to take some courses at another campus or online.
Course Requirements
MAJOR CORE COURSES
VIZ1100 Architectural Visualization
3 Credits
Provides a foundation in the graphic language used to represent interior spaces by using drafting techniques and the proper use of drafting materials and tools. Introduces AutoCAD as a drafting tool. Topics include floor plans, reflected ceiling plans, elevations, sections, perspectives, standard symbols, scale and line weight.
VIZ1102 Illustrator and Digital Graphics
3 Credits
Surveys the world of vector-based design and illustration using Adobe Illustrator. Students will explore the unique capabilities of vector graphics, enabling them to create original, scalable, and high-quality graphics for print and digital applications. Emphasis will be placed on mastering the tools and techniques specific to Illustrator and applying design principles effectively in vector-based projects.
Prerequisite: VIZ1100
VIZ1110 Sketching and Color Composition
3 Credits
Introduces the development of basic freehand sketches. This course emphasizes quick sketch techniques and rapid 3-D visualization. Students learn a variety of drawing media, rendering techniques and color theory and fundamentals for visually communicating design concepts.
VIZ1120 Conceptual Design
3 Credits
Introduces the principles and elements of design. This course emphasizes conceptual analysis and problem solution in two- and three-dimensional design. Students examine the psychological and cultural impact of form, space, and volume in making appropriate design decisions.
VIZ1121 3D Design and Modeling
3 Credits
This course introduces 3D modeling, rendering, and lighting techniques using Autodesk Maya. Students will gain hands-on experience in building 3D models, applying lighting techniques, and rendering scenes that bring their designs to life. The course also touches on the basics of rigging to give students a comprehensive overview of 3D design processes.
Prerequisite: VIZ1110
VIZ1150 CAD I
3 Credits
Students learn to use SketchUp, Layout, and Enscape to 3D model their designs and present them in Orthogonal Projections such as plan, sections and elevations, and rendered perspectives. Students are also introduced to Photoshop and Design 2020.
Prerequisite: VIZ1100
VIZ1190 Typography I
3 Credits
Introduces the history, physical attributes, family classification, terminology, and structural aspects of type. Students explore typography as a medium that conveys aesthetic, emotional, and intellectual meaning. Students create effective marketing materials by incorporating type as an integrated and active element.
Prerequisite: VIZ1100
VIZ2200 CAD II
3 Credits
Instructs students in the use of Rhino 3D modeling and rendering tools to create, manipulate, and render three dimensional views of interior spaces. Students master modeling, materials, and lighting to develop striking renderings of their design solutions using Rhino’s native rendering engine as well as Enscape.
Prerequisite: VIZ1150
VIZ2205 Three-Dimensional Design
3 Credits
This studio course focuses on spatial organization, transforming two-dimensional ideas into three-dimensional experiences. Students will explore balance, form, and volume while experimenting with various construction methods and materials. Hands-on projects enable students to create, represent, and respond to form in physical space. The course combines lectures, guided assignments, and critiques to offer a well-rounded understanding of three-dimensional design.
Prerequisite: VIZ1100
VIZ2260 Architectural Construction and Methods I
3 Credits
Studies the relationship between Interior Design and Architectural systems. Topics include construction methods and materials. Focusing on wood frame residential construction. This course covers foundation, floor, wall and roof systems; construction techniques and building materials; elements of site analysis, regulatory factors, and zoning ordinances.
Prerequisite: VIZ1150
VIZ2290 Lighting
3 Credits
Introduces the student to the basic principles of lighting design. This will include technical, sustainable, and creative aspects of producing reflected ceiling plans and integrating light into the fabric of architecture. This course also covers the design and model making process of light fixtures.
Prerequisite: VIZ1150
VIZ2295 Typography II
3 Credits
Develops the skills acquired in Typography I. Projects incorporate type as a decorative element to produce creative marketable design results. Principles of selecting typeface, use of grids, and basic layout designs and formats are addressed.
Prerequisite: VIZ1190
VIZ3350 Architectural Construction and Methods II
3 Credits
Builds on the concepts presented in Architectural Construction and Methods I. Students are introduced to the various components and systems used in the construction and assembly of commercial buildings. Focusing on masonry, steel construction, green roofs, HVAC, plumbing and acoustics. Introduction of fire suppression as well as circulation systems are discussed.
Prerequisite: VIZ2260
VIZ3360 Packaging Design
3 Credits
This course covers the practical and creative aspects of packaging from concept to completion. Students learn to design and construct packaging using industry-standard methods, including 3D modeling and physical prototype creation. An emphasis is placed on the critical integration of typography, color, and branding in developing functional and aesthetically pleasing packaging solutions.
Prerequisite: VIZ1102
VIZ3370 CAD III: Working Drawings
3 Credits
Teaches students Revit to create industry standard construction drawings used by the trade to build and renovate spaces. Symbols, graphic notations, sections, details, and schedules are taught to be used in the proper representation of their designs as legal documents for construction.
Prerequisite: VIZ3350
VIZ3380 Furniture Design
3 Credits
Covers basic principles and techniques of designing furniture implementing creativity, functionality, materials, and construction documents. Focuses on the understanding of the design processes, as well as manufacturing techniques of furniture making and human factors for responsible design. Through a series of design projects, the student will learn to use sketching and technical drawing skills, model making, and 3D prototyping.
Prerequisite: VIZ3350
VIZ4400 Special Topics
3 Credits
This course explores diverse subjects in design. It aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of concepts presented, culminating in the creation of polished, portfolio-ready projects.
Prerequisite: VIZ3360
VIZ4405 Motions Graphics
3 Credits
In this course, students will explore motion graphics, focusing on theoretical and practical applications. Utilizing industry software, students will apply motion theory, typography, and color theory to create compelling visual narratives. The course also examines the applications of motion graphics across multiple platforms such as social media, film, animation, and web.
Prerequisites VIZ2295
VIZ4410 Career Management
3 Credits
Explores job requirements, avenues for career development opportunities, and strategies for successful career management. This course covers resume writing, interviewing, professional organizations and the importance of professionalism in the industry. Students prepare documents needed to pursue job opportunities including a professional design portfolio.
Prerequisite: VIZ3370
VIZ4420 Game Design
3 Credits
Introduces the theory and practice of game creation and design for interactive home entertainment, arcade games, education, and multiplayer online environments. Students study the history, genres, technology, organization, psychology, and story of games. Students will then gain mastery over the Unity 3D engine.
Prerequisite: VIZ1121
VIZ4460 Capstone Project
3 Credits
During this course, students engage in the hands-on production of their creative endeavors. Successful completion marks the pinnacle of their academic journey, showcasing their design expertise in a public exhibition.
Prerequisite: VIZ4400
VIZ4481 Portfolio
3 Credits
Provides a studio and critique workshop. Students edit, create, add, highlight, and refine projects to meet industry standards and promote individual graphic design skills in their specialized area. This course is taken in a student's senior year.
Prerequisite: VIZ3360
VIZ4483 Internship
3 Credits
Provides a field-based internship experience where students acquire career/professional skills within the design industry under the direction of a mentor, who provides necessary guidance/direction to meet job requirements. Student interns meet/communicate weekly with a faculty instructor to assess/evaluate their programs. Prerequisite: Departmental permission
3D Digital Visualization Electives – 9 Credits
LIBERAL ARTS AND SCIENCE CORE COURSES*
ENG1105 Writing and Research
3 Credits
An introduction to expository writing through a comprehensive survey of forms of composition. Students are taught to use words with precision and strengthen their understanding and application of grammatical and rhetorical principles. Students are encouraged to appreciate and incorporate the principles of academic and professional writing.
ENG2205 Writing Through Literature
3 Credits
Further develops the writing, reading, and interpretive abilities introduced in ENG1105 through critical engagement with literary texts from a myriad of genres.
Prerequisite: ENG1105
ENG3316 The Confident Writer
3 Credits
Explores a wide variety of non-fiction writing genres, including personal profile, journalism, criticism, and more. Students build their reading, writing, and researching skills while also reinforcing the fundamental concepts and current developments associated with the areas of their respective majors.
Prerequisite: ENG2205
MAT2211 College Algebra
3 Credit Hours
Introduces students to solving problems by using geometric and algebraic approaches. Topics include the Cartesian coordinate system, linear equations, absolute value, rational and exponential functions, systems of linear equations, linear inequalities, logarithms, and polynomials.
Prerequisite: CSK85 or placement-based score
HUM2225 Introduction to Ethics
3 Credits
Introduces the study of ethics and moral philosophy, including its historical development, the major figures within that history, and ethical and moral issues that face us today. This course presents the perspectives of various schools of thought and encourages students’ own critical thinking on ethical and moral issues in dialogue with others.
SOC1123 First Year Experience
3 Credits
Explores the challenges students most frequently face in pursuing and achieving a college degree. Students will identify their own perceived challenges, share critical insights to meeting them, and implement their own plan of action to address and overcome such challenges.
SOC2231 Human Relations
3 Credits
Students will develop the interpersonal skills known to be key ingredients for successful everyday interactions with a focus on the challenges of workplace relationships involving coworkers, supervisors, and customers/clients. Some major skill areas covered in the course include making a good impression with your employer, managing conflict with difficult coworkers, working on a team with diverse groups of people, providing exceptional service for customers/clients, and managing on-the-job stressors.
Liberal Arts Electives - 9 Credits
Humanities Elective - 3 Credits
Mathematics/Science Elective - 3 Credits
English/Science Elective - 3 Credits
Social Science Elective - 3 Credits
120 SEMESTER CREDIT HOURS REQUIRED FOR GRADUATION
*12 credits of Liberal Arts Electives must be at the 3000/4000 level.
The onsite program requires students to obtain specific supplies, the cost of which totals approximately $300.00.
The online program also requires students to obtain specific supplies, the cost of which totals approximately $515.00.
Detailed, itemized information describing the required supplies and listing typical prices for each such item is available at http://berkeleycollege.edu/catalogs/undergraduate-2024-2025/admissions/undergraduate-degree-program-tuition-fees-2024-2025/index.html