Undergraduate Courses
SEQA 100 Introduction to Sequential Art
Introducing the components of sequential art, this course explores visual narrative theories and techniques. Students become familiar with the discipline of sequential art and the various standard tools and techniques involved. Prerequisite(s): DRAW 101, DSGN 101.
SEQA 202 Drawing for Sequential Art
Focusing on observational and interpretive drawing skills as they apply to visual storytelling for sequential art, students in this course develop their drafting facility and learn how characters are constructed and integrated into graphic environments. Prerequisite(s): DRAW 101 or DRAW 200.
SEQA 205 Survey of Sequential Art
Highlighting significant works of sequential art including their historical roots and major influences, students in this survey analyze trends, styles, techniques, subject matter and works of important artists across the sequential art spectrum. Prerequisite(s): ENGL 123.
SEQA 215 Materials and Techniques for Sequential Art
Examining the technical craft of sequential art production, students in this course focus on a variety of traditional skills, techniques and tools associated with illustrating a comic narrative. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 202.
SEQA 220 Cartooning
This course examines and explores the art of cartooning. Students create and develop their own single- and multipanel comic strips, as well as editorial and political cartoons. Prerequisite(s): DRAW 101.
SEQA 224 Character Design and Storyboarding for Animation
Emphasizing the observational skills and attention to detail that help a creator define and individualize cartoon characters and backgrounds, students in this course create appropriate model sheets for character animation and generate storyboards. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 215.
SEQA 244 Comic Book Scripting
Covering dialogue, captions, sound effects, panel and page layouts, and the relationship of image to text in dramatic situations, students in this course develop narrative ideas and express them in written form, from the basic plot to the finished script. Prerequisite(s): ENGL 123, SEQA 100.
SEQA 277 Digital Coloring and Lettering Applications for Comics
Focusing on digital problems and concerns relevant to creating a sequential narrative, students in this course develop their understanding of color theory, digital coloring techniques, digital lettering and sound effects, and the use of appropriate applications as they relate to visual storytelling. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 215.
SEQA 304 Advanced Drawing for Sequential Art
This course is intended to further develop techniques introduced in Drawing for Sequential Art and is aimed at helping students develop enhanced drawing skills that specifically apply to sequential art. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 202.
SEQA 306 Comics Painting
This course is designed for students who wish to explore fully painted sequential art. Students create pages of comics storytelling, with particular emphasis on applying watercolor, acrylics and other media. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 215.
SEQA 307 Vector Comics
Using vector-based software, students learn a variety of techniques for creating digital comics. Subjects include: designing and rendering comics with Bezier curves, using digital stylistic techniques, creating rapidly editable compositions, developing electronic storyboards and simple graphics for Web. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 277.
SEQA 308 Special Topics in Sequential Art
The topic of this course varies from quarter to quarter. Each seminar focuses on various issues in the field of sequential art and allows students to pursue individual projects related to the topic of the course. Prerequisite(s): Vary according to topic.
SEQA 310 Painting for Comics Covers
The dynamic elements for successful design and execution of graphic novel covers are explored through a series of demonstrations and projects focusing on general color theory, the treatment of light and shade, representation of depth, surface textures, environment and the human form. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 202, SEQA 215.
SEQA 311 Conceptual Illustration
This course enables students to explore comprehensively the characters, themes and environments of their own creation. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 224.
SEQA 312 Advanced Storyboarding
This course helps students increase their knowledge of storyboarding and how it applies to the advertising, animation and motion picture fields. Students break down ideas and scenes sequentially to promote visual storytelling. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 224.
SEQA 313 Sequential Art for Emerging Media
Focusing on new and future trends in digital media delivery as it relates to sequential art, students are immersed in emerging platform technology. Students develop adaptable content as well as a forward-thinking approach to making comics for new venues. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 277.
SEQA 317 Getting Published and Self-publishing
Students are introduced to the business of researching, marketing, packaging and distributing comics. Approaches to selling work to mainstream comics companies are emphasized, along with the business of independent publishing. Students may have the opportunity to participate in a comics publication. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 277.
SEQA 325 Environments, Props and Structures
Underscoring the vital visual elements that are often overlooked when illustrating a believable visual story, students in this course study and illustrate building interiors, exterior environments, vehicles and other objects from different perspectives and in a variety of locations. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 202.
SEQA 326 Conceptual Maquette Design
Through the manipulation of various sculptural materials, this course introduces students to the process of designing maquette characters for 3-D rendering. The students learn to work with diverse types of character designs, styles, proportions and genres. They study classical and contemporary sculptural techniques and subsequently learn to utilize the various working methods described. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 224.
SEQA 337 Fantasy Illustrations
In this course, students produce a variety of projects beyond panel-to-panel comics formats, incorporating fantasy or science fiction themes and comics-related subjects. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 277.
SEQA 340 Superhero Comics
This course showcases the art of drawing superheroes. Students are introduced to techniques for making characters dynamic and pages exciting through the use of camera angles, page layout and perspective. These techniques help students pace stories and choose views that best accentuate the characters’ heroic abilities. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 277, SEQA 325.
SEQA 344 Advanced Writing for Comics
This non-studio course builds upon content from Comic Book Scripting. Particular emphasis is placed on problems posed in scripting for longer work, such as graphic novels. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 244.
SEQA 345 Figure Drawing for Sequential Art
This course focuses on the basic form, anatomy and gesture of key human elements that are essential in creating effective sequential art. Aided by a thorough understanding of anatomy, students refine rendering techniques and construct 3-D representations. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 202.
SEQA 352 Constructive Human Anatomy for Sequential Art
In this course, students gain a thorough working knowledge of the form and dynamics of the human body through applied sculptural, observational and rendering techniques. Specific attention is paid to how these techniques can be applied to visual storytelling. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 202.
SEQA 354 Speed Sketching for Sequential Art
This course focuses on improving the students’ ability to execute a drawing of a reasonable likeness of an original or imagined subject in a limited amount of time. Sketches continue to be used to build complex drawings and are applied to storytelling for sequential art. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 202.
SEQA 360 Mini-comics
Concentrating on skills associated with printing, bookbinding and packaging, students develop a variety of mini-comics that showcase their sequential art in the form of handmade publications. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 215.
SEQA 362 Constructive Anatomy for Drawing the Hands and Feet
A thorough working knowledge of the form and dynamics of the human hand and foot is given to the student through a complete exploration of sculptural écorché, analytical drawing and lecture. Drawing and sculpting from the live model is included along with course specific anatomical investigation. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 202.
SEQA 377 Constructive Head Drawing
A thorough working knowledge of the form and dynamics of the human head is given to the student through a complete exploration of sculptural écorché, analytical drawing and lecture. Drawing and sculpting from the live model is included along with course-specific anatomical investigation. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 202.
SEQA 380 Online Comics
Digital delivery and the empowerment of the independent creator are achieved by creating marketable, well-branded web-comic sites that demonstrate intelligent formal use of the medium. Students gain skills necessary for site construction and promotion while learning the artistic history of the genre. Prerequisite(s): CMPA 100 or CMPA 110, SEQA 224, SEQA 277.
SEQA 382 Visual Storytelling I
Developing graphic storytelling skills and the craft of penciling comic book pages, students in this course learn page layout, panel design and work with scripts while penciling traditional panel-to-panel sequential art. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 325.
SEQA 383 The Pitch
Students learn how to create and present a proposal or "pitch" for development as a graphic novel, comic book series, film or television project. Emphasis is placed on creating stories, characters and settings that are used in an extended narrative and culminate in a presentation bible. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 224.
SEQA 386 Hand Lettering and Typography for Comics
Through lectures, demonstrations and studio work, students are introduced to the tradition of hand-lettering and typography in sequential art. The use of word and image in service to a narrative is explored as the students practice conventional and contemporary techniques. Emphasis is placed on skill-building and practical application. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 215.
SEQA 388 Constructive Animal Anatomy for Creature Design
Through direct observation, sculptural écorché, analytical drawing, lecture and action analysis, students develop a thorough working knowledge of the form and dynamics of animals. This body of knowledge is applied to the understanding of creatures that inhabit the fantasy worlds in comic books, video games and movies, which enables students to develop an animal or creature/character of their own creation. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 382.
SEQA 394 Advanced Inking Techniques
This course engages students in the professional practices of comic arts inking. Proficiency of method and application of media are stressed through a wide variety of inking techniques. Students integrate various forms of inking applications into the graphic narrative in support of developing a personal direction and style. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 325.
SEQA 401 Sequential Art in Tokyo, Japan
Through visits to studios, galleries and publishing companies in Tokyo, Japan, this course investigates the art and business of sequential art in that country. Students visit and consult with various professional cartoonists and comic book companies. The production component of the medium, as it exists today in Japan, is also observed in detail. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 224.
SEQA 405 Visual Storytelling II
Continuing to develop the skills introduced in Visual Storytelling I, students herein explore the integral relationship between pencils and inks while honing their visual storytelling skills. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 382.
SEQA 410 Sequential Art Senior Project
Incorporating various skills, including storytelling, scripting, drawing techniques and working with various materials and media, students produce sequential art suitable for publication or for incorporation into a portfolio of professional quality work. This course is a culmination of the undergraduate sequential art curriculum. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 277, SEQA 405.
SEQA 411 Advanced Conceptual Illustration
Using characters, environment and technology established in previous coursework, students continue to develop their individual creations as well as work on collaborative projects. An increased focus is placed on developing a professional, cohesive portfolio. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 311.
SEQA 419 Sequential Picture Books for Children
In this course, students create artwork for children’s books in which the picture primarily tells the story. Students have the option of generating original story ideas or adapting existing works of children’s literature. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 382.
SEQA 420 Alternative and/or Experimental Comics
This studio course allows students to explore the history, theory and practice of alternative comics. Students may discover how alternative approaches and markets are relevant to their practices. Students are encouraged to discover a unique voice in their writing and visual execution. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 382.
SEQA 424 Manga Comics
Japanese Manga is an immensely popular genre of comics. This course explores the two definitive elements of manga: visual style and unique storytelling. Students learn to recognize and adapt Japanese influences into their own sequential artwork. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 382.
SEQA 427 Electronic Cover Illustration for Comics
This course provides an opportunity for students to generate ideas and execute concepts for comic book covers. Emphasis is placed on storytelling and design. Covers for sequential art publications are created using both electronic and traditional means. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 277.
SEQA 430 Advanced Manga
Focusing on the creation of a complete short story in the Manga (Japanese comics) format and style, students in this class are expected to create a self-contained narrative featuring 15-20 pages of finished art. The course is augmented with in-class critiques, presentations, and lectures purposed toward an in-depth development of a signature style within this unique format. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 244, SEQA 424.
SEQA 445 Professional Production: Concept Art
As an advanced production class, students gain experience on professional practices and procedures used by major game studios. Students work with workbooks, style sheets and reference materials provided by a major game design studio. Students build art assets required for in-game placement in a commercial game title, which feeds directly into the studio’s production pipeline. This is a collaborative effort between the professional studio and students. Faculty and studio representatives schedule and review student work. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 325, permission of the department chair.
SEQA 451 Sequential Arts Seminar
This course investigates the art and business of sequential art with visits to studios, galleries and publishing companies. Students travel off-campus to meet professional cartoonists, editors and gallery owners, giving them insight into the working world of sequential art. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 100.
SEQA 460 Digital Portfolio
Students showcase their work through the development of sample reels and an interactive portfolio. Existing projects are expanded through the addition of music, interactivity and timing provided by the digital realm. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 277.
Introducing the components of sequential art, this course explores visual narrative theories and techniques. Students become familiar with the discipline of sequential art and the various standard tools and techniques involved. Prerequisite(s): DRAW 101, DSGN 101.
SEQA 202 Drawing for Sequential Art
Focusing on observational and interpretive drawing skills as they apply to visual storytelling for sequential art, students in this course develop their drafting facility and learn how characters are constructed and integrated into graphic environments. Prerequisite(s): DRAW 101 or DRAW 200.
SEQA 205 Survey of Sequential Art
Highlighting significant works of sequential art including their historical roots and major influences, students in this survey analyze trends, styles, techniques, subject matter and works of important artists across the sequential art spectrum. Prerequisite(s): ENGL 123.
SEQA 215 Materials and Techniques for Sequential Art
Examining the technical craft of sequential art production, students in this course focus on a variety of traditional skills, techniques and tools associated with illustrating a comic narrative. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 202.
SEQA 220 Cartooning
This course examines and explores the art of cartooning. Students create and develop their own single- and multipanel comic strips, as well as editorial and political cartoons. Prerequisite(s): DRAW 101.
SEQA 224 Character Design and Storyboarding for Animation
Emphasizing the observational skills and attention to detail that help a creator define and individualize cartoon characters and backgrounds, students in this course create appropriate model sheets for character animation and generate storyboards. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 215.
SEQA 244 Comic Book Scripting
Covering dialogue, captions, sound effects, panel and page layouts, and the relationship of image to text in dramatic situations, students in this course develop narrative ideas and express them in written form, from the basic plot to the finished script. Prerequisite(s): ENGL 123, SEQA 100.
SEQA 277 Digital Coloring and Lettering Applications for Comics
Focusing on digital problems and concerns relevant to creating a sequential narrative, students in this course develop their understanding of color theory, digital coloring techniques, digital lettering and sound effects, and the use of appropriate applications as they relate to visual storytelling. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 215.
SEQA 304 Advanced Drawing for Sequential Art
This course is intended to further develop techniques introduced in Drawing for Sequential Art and is aimed at helping students develop enhanced drawing skills that specifically apply to sequential art. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 202.
SEQA 306 Comics Painting
This course is designed for students who wish to explore fully painted sequential art. Students create pages of comics storytelling, with particular emphasis on applying watercolor, acrylics and other media. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 215.
SEQA 307 Vector Comics
Using vector-based software, students learn a variety of techniques for creating digital comics. Subjects include: designing and rendering comics with Bezier curves, using digital stylistic techniques, creating rapidly editable compositions, developing electronic storyboards and simple graphics for Web. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 277.
SEQA 308 Special Topics in Sequential Art
The topic of this course varies from quarter to quarter. Each seminar focuses on various issues in the field of sequential art and allows students to pursue individual projects related to the topic of the course. Prerequisite(s): Vary according to topic.
SEQA 310 Painting for Comics Covers
The dynamic elements for successful design and execution of graphic novel covers are explored through a series of demonstrations and projects focusing on general color theory, the treatment of light and shade, representation of depth, surface textures, environment and the human form. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 202, SEQA 215.
SEQA 311 Conceptual Illustration
This course enables students to explore comprehensively the characters, themes and environments of their own creation. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 224.
SEQA 312 Advanced Storyboarding
This course helps students increase their knowledge of storyboarding and how it applies to the advertising, animation and motion picture fields. Students break down ideas and scenes sequentially to promote visual storytelling. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 224.
SEQA 313 Sequential Art for Emerging Media
Focusing on new and future trends in digital media delivery as it relates to sequential art, students are immersed in emerging platform technology. Students develop adaptable content as well as a forward-thinking approach to making comics for new venues. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 277.
SEQA 317 Getting Published and Self-publishing
Students are introduced to the business of researching, marketing, packaging and distributing comics. Approaches to selling work to mainstream comics companies are emphasized, along with the business of independent publishing. Students may have the opportunity to participate in a comics publication. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 277.
SEQA 325 Environments, Props and Structures
Underscoring the vital visual elements that are often overlooked when illustrating a believable visual story, students in this course study and illustrate building interiors, exterior environments, vehicles and other objects from different perspectives and in a variety of locations. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 202.
SEQA 326 Conceptual Maquette Design
Through the manipulation of various sculptural materials, this course introduces students to the process of designing maquette characters for 3-D rendering. The students learn to work with diverse types of character designs, styles, proportions and genres. They study classical and contemporary sculptural techniques and subsequently learn to utilize the various working methods described. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 224.
SEQA 337 Fantasy Illustrations
In this course, students produce a variety of projects beyond panel-to-panel comics formats, incorporating fantasy or science fiction themes and comics-related subjects. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 277.
SEQA 340 Superhero Comics
This course showcases the art of drawing superheroes. Students are introduced to techniques for making characters dynamic and pages exciting through the use of camera angles, page layout and perspective. These techniques help students pace stories and choose views that best accentuate the characters’ heroic abilities. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 277, SEQA 325.
SEQA 344 Advanced Writing for Comics
This non-studio course builds upon content from Comic Book Scripting. Particular emphasis is placed on problems posed in scripting for longer work, such as graphic novels. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 244.
SEQA 345 Figure Drawing for Sequential Art
This course focuses on the basic form, anatomy and gesture of key human elements that are essential in creating effective sequential art. Aided by a thorough understanding of anatomy, students refine rendering techniques and construct 3-D representations. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 202.
SEQA 352 Constructive Human Anatomy for Sequential Art
In this course, students gain a thorough working knowledge of the form and dynamics of the human body through applied sculptural, observational and rendering techniques. Specific attention is paid to how these techniques can be applied to visual storytelling. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 202.
SEQA 354 Speed Sketching for Sequential Art
This course focuses on improving the students’ ability to execute a drawing of a reasonable likeness of an original or imagined subject in a limited amount of time. Sketches continue to be used to build complex drawings and are applied to storytelling for sequential art. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 202.
SEQA 360 Mini-comics
Concentrating on skills associated with printing, bookbinding and packaging, students develop a variety of mini-comics that showcase their sequential art in the form of handmade publications. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 215.
SEQA 362 Constructive Anatomy for Drawing the Hands and Feet
A thorough working knowledge of the form and dynamics of the human hand and foot is given to the student through a complete exploration of sculptural écorché, analytical drawing and lecture. Drawing and sculpting from the live model is included along with course specific anatomical investigation. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 202.
SEQA 377 Constructive Head Drawing
A thorough working knowledge of the form and dynamics of the human head is given to the student through a complete exploration of sculptural écorché, analytical drawing and lecture. Drawing and sculpting from the live model is included along with course-specific anatomical investigation. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 202.
SEQA 380 Online Comics
Digital delivery and the empowerment of the independent creator are achieved by creating marketable, well-branded web-comic sites that demonstrate intelligent formal use of the medium. Students gain skills necessary for site construction and promotion while learning the artistic history of the genre. Prerequisite(s): CMPA 100 or CMPA 110, SEQA 224, SEQA 277.
SEQA 382 Visual Storytelling I
Developing graphic storytelling skills and the craft of penciling comic book pages, students in this course learn page layout, panel design and work with scripts while penciling traditional panel-to-panel sequential art. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 325.
SEQA 383 The Pitch
Students learn how to create and present a proposal or "pitch" for development as a graphic novel, comic book series, film or television project. Emphasis is placed on creating stories, characters and settings that are used in an extended narrative and culminate in a presentation bible. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 224.
SEQA 386 Hand Lettering and Typography for Comics
Through lectures, demonstrations and studio work, students are introduced to the tradition of hand-lettering and typography in sequential art. The use of word and image in service to a narrative is explored as the students practice conventional and contemporary techniques. Emphasis is placed on skill-building and practical application. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 215.
SEQA 388 Constructive Animal Anatomy for Creature Design
Through direct observation, sculptural écorché, analytical drawing, lecture and action analysis, students develop a thorough working knowledge of the form and dynamics of animals. This body of knowledge is applied to the understanding of creatures that inhabit the fantasy worlds in comic books, video games and movies, which enables students to develop an animal or creature/character of their own creation. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 382.
SEQA 394 Advanced Inking Techniques
This course engages students in the professional practices of comic arts inking. Proficiency of method and application of media are stressed through a wide variety of inking techniques. Students integrate various forms of inking applications into the graphic narrative in support of developing a personal direction and style. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 325.
SEQA 401 Sequential Art in Tokyo, Japan
Through visits to studios, galleries and publishing companies in Tokyo, Japan, this course investigates the art and business of sequential art in that country. Students visit and consult with various professional cartoonists and comic book companies. The production component of the medium, as it exists today in Japan, is also observed in detail. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 224.
SEQA 405 Visual Storytelling II
Continuing to develop the skills introduced in Visual Storytelling I, students herein explore the integral relationship between pencils and inks while honing their visual storytelling skills. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 382.
SEQA 410 Sequential Art Senior Project
Incorporating various skills, including storytelling, scripting, drawing techniques and working with various materials and media, students produce sequential art suitable for publication or for incorporation into a portfolio of professional quality work. This course is a culmination of the undergraduate sequential art curriculum. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 277, SEQA 405.
SEQA 411 Advanced Conceptual Illustration
Using characters, environment and technology established in previous coursework, students continue to develop their individual creations as well as work on collaborative projects. An increased focus is placed on developing a professional, cohesive portfolio. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 311.
SEQA 419 Sequential Picture Books for Children
In this course, students create artwork for children’s books in which the picture primarily tells the story. Students have the option of generating original story ideas or adapting existing works of children’s literature. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 382.
SEQA 420 Alternative and/or Experimental Comics
This studio course allows students to explore the history, theory and practice of alternative comics. Students may discover how alternative approaches and markets are relevant to their practices. Students are encouraged to discover a unique voice in their writing and visual execution. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 382.
SEQA 424 Manga Comics
Japanese Manga is an immensely popular genre of comics. This course explores the two definitive elements of manga: visual style and unique storytelling. Students learn to recognize and adapt Japanese influences into their own sequential artwork. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 382.
SEQA 427 Electronic Cover Illustration for Comics
This course provides an opportunity for students to generate ideas and execute concepts for comic book covers. Emphasis is placed on storytelling and design. Covers for sequential art publications are created using both electronic and traditional means. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 277.
SEQA 430 Advanced Manga
Focusing on the creation of a complete short story in the Manga (Japanese comics) format and style, students in this class are expected to create a self-contained narrative featuring 15-20 pages of finished art. The course is augmented with in-class critiques, presentations, and lectures purposed toward an in-depth development of a signature style within this unique format. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 244, SEQA 424.
SEQA 445 Professional Production: Concept Art
As an advanced production class, students gain experience on professional practices and procedures used by major game studios. Students work with workbooks, style sheets and reference materials provided by a major game design studio. Students build art assets required for in-game placement in a commercial game title, which feeds directly into the studio’s production pipeline. This is a collaborative effort between the professional studio and students. Faculty and studio representatives schedule and review student work. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 325, permission of the department chair.
SEQA 451 Sequential Arts Seminar
This course investigates the art and business of sequential art with visits to studios, galleries and publishing companies. Students travel off-campus to meet professional cartoonists, editors and gallery owners, giving them insight into the working world of sequential art. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 100.
SEQA 460 Digital Portfolio
Students showcase their work through the development of sample reels and an interactive portfolio. Existing projects are expanded through the addition of music, interactivity and timing provided by the digital realm. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 277.
Graduate Courses
SEQA 501 Drawing Strategies for Sequential Art
Fresh approaches to imagery and the power to manipulate images between the observed world and the realm of imagination are vital to the success of any sequential artist. The sequential artist should also understand how style relates to these critical narrative skills. Imaginative visual interpretations of observed characters, places and events are key elements in visual storytelling. This course fosters these essential skills while helping students discover a personal approach to cartooning.
SEQA 502 Visual Story Development
This course reinforces graduate-level skills in creating visual narrative for students entering the graduate program in sequential art. All sequential art begins with the relationship of the visual image to the narrative. It is essential that students understand and analyze the vital relationship between graphics and text as they relate to the visual narrative. Page layout, panel design and the relationship of images combined with the written word are among the disciplines covered in the course.
SEQA 503 Sequential Art Production Methods
Any story, no matter how carefully conceived, requires an understanding of production processes. Creating static narrative art not only requires a fine imagination and an understanding of basic storytelling, but a mastery of the technical aspects of presenting the story. This course explores a variety of processes and techniques used to produce visual narrative from thumbnails to pre-press. Students in this course are taught traditional and digital approaches to penciling, inking, lettering and coloring. Additionally, students learn to prepare sequential art for both print and Web delivery.
SEQA 701 Theories and Practices for Sequential Art
In this course, students study sequential art theory, history and industry. Using studio projects aligned with specific theories and concepts, students view their own work within the context of contemporary sequential art. This course includes directed and independent projects, research presentations, critical writing and the discussion and analysis of industry trends.
SEQA 707 Drawing for Sequential Art
This course is primarily an observational drawing course for sequential art students. Using a number of primary references, students are expected to analyze and represent the 3-D world in 2-D in a way that is relevant to their discipline.
SEQA 712 Concept Design in Sequential Art
This course is a comprehensive exploration of characters, themes and environments of students' own creation.
SEQA 716 Sequential Art Studio I
Students propose a series of sequential art problems in a particular area of interest. Emphasis is on the advancement of marketable techniques, style and personal solutions through a series of related projects. Students are free to experiment with different techniques and subject matter, and are expected to plan and carry out a project from story conception to completion. Group instruction and critiques are included. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 701.
SEQA 717 Exploring the Narrative
This course is designed to help students identify and explore the formal aspects of traditional narratives. By examining narratives in various media (literature, fables, film, video, plays), students are provided with preparation to create their own stories.
SEQA 726 Sequential Art Studio II
Students continue to explore issues in sequential art, working on individual, self-directed projects and participating in group discussions and critiques. Emphasis is on advancement of individual studio projects. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 716.
SEQA 731 Digital Design Issues in Sequential Art
This course focuses on digital design, prepress and printing as they pertain to sequential art. There are relevant assignments, discussions and critiques of print, Web and prepress in the digital realm. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 716.
SEQA 741 Inking Techniques
This course is designed to familiarize students with all of the inking tools and techniques employed by professional comic book artists and inkers. Students gain the ability to work in a wide range of styles and emphasis is placed on developing a personal approach to inking. Both individual and group critiques support the projects.
SEQA 745 Writing for Sequential Art
This course focuses on the necessity for sequential artists to be competent writers as well as artists. The course covers all phases of writing for sequential art, including scripting in various styles, constructing plot synopses, submitting proposals to publishers and generating story ideas in various genres of sequential art. The course is designed to give students the writing skills necessary to work professionally in the world of sequential art.
SEQA 749 Sequential Art M.A. Final Project
All M.A. students in sequential art are required to develop and produce a substantial professional-level portfolio that integrates all the skills and knowledge acquired throughout the program. Students are instructed about how to construct a portfolio and effectively market themselves. Attention is given to tailoring portfolios to specific sequential art markets including comics, graphic novels, cartooning, storyboarding, animation, children’s books and/or digital game design. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 716.
SEQA 756 Sequential Art Studio III
This studio course further advances students’ abilities to address issues and arrive at self-directed solutions to sequential art problems. The course involves individual studio projects, class discussion and group critiques. Prerequisite(s): Completion of the review for candidacy.
SEQA 766 Sequential Art Studio IV
Students conclude the Sequential Art Studio sequence as they refine their problem-solving skills with the development of a marketable technique and a personal vision and style. Independent work on projects of particular interest produces a range of work that is of professional, portfolio-level quality. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 756.
SEQA 770 Sequential Art Self-promotion
This course explores the many avenues open to illustrators who wish to work in the field of sequential art. Students examine how to advertise and promote themselves through projects such as portfolio preparation, printed self-promotional pieces and personal logos. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 726.
SEQA 779F Graduate Field Internship
Students in this course undertake a field assignment under the supervision of a faculty member. Prerequisite(s): 15 graduate credit hours, good academic standing.
SEQA 779T Graduate Teaching Internship
Students in this course undertake a teaching assignment under the supervision of a faculty member. Prerequisite(s): 15 graduate credit hours, good academic standing.
SEQA 780 Special Topics in Sequential Art
This course examines topical issues in sequential art. Issues vary from term to term.
SEQA 790 Sequential Art M.F.A. Thesis
All M.F.A. students in sequential art must develop and prepare an original exhibition, with an accompanying written component. Prerequisite(s): Completion of the review for candidacy.
Fresh approaches to imagery and the power to manipulate images between the observed world and the realm of imagination are vital to the success of any sequential artist. The sequential artist should also understand how style relates to these critical narrative skills. Imaginative visual interpretations of observed characters, places and events are key elements in visual storytelling. This course fosters these essential skills while helping students discover a personal approach to cartooning.
SEQA 502 Visual Story Development
This course reinforces graduate-level skills in creating visual narrative for students entering the graduate program in sequential art. All sequential art begins with the relationship of the visual image to the narrative. It is essential that students understand and analyze the vital relationship between graphics and text as they relate to the visual narrative. Page layout, panel design and the relationship of images combined with the written word are among the disciplines covered in the course.
SEQA 503 Sequential Art Production Methods
Any story, no matter how carefully conceived, requires an understanding of production processes. Creating static narrative art not only requires a fine imagination and an understanding of basic storytelling, but a mastery of the technical aspects of presenting the story. This course explores a variety of processes and techniques used to produce visual narrative from thumbnails to pre-press. Students in this course are taught traditional and digital approaches to penciling, inking, lettering and coloring. Additionally, students learn to prepare sequential art for both print and Web delivery.
SEQA 701 Theories and Practices for Sequential Art
In this course, students study sequential art theory, history and industry. Using studio projects aligned with specific theories and concepts, students view their own work within the context of contemporary sequential art. This course includes directed and independent projects, research presentations, critical writing and the discussion and analysis of industry trends.
SEQA 707 Drawing for Sequential Art
This course is primarily an observational drawing course for sequential art students. Using a number of primary references, students are expected to analyze and represent the 3-D world in 2-D in a way that is relevant to their discipline.
SEQA 712 Concept Design in Sequential Art
This course is a comprehensive exploration of characters, themes and environments of students' own creation.
SEQA 716 Sequential Art Studio I
Students propose a series of sequential art problems in a particular area of interest. Emphasis is on the advancement of marketable techniques, style and personal solutions through a series of related projects. Students are free to experiment with different techniques and subject matter, and are expected to plan and carry out a project from story conception to completion. Group instruction and critiques are included. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 701.
SEQA 717 Exploring the Narrative
This course is designed to help students identify and explore the formal aspects of traditional narratives. By examining narratives in various media (literature, fables, film, video, plays), students are provided with preparation to create their own stories.
SEQA 726 Sequential Art Studio II
Students continue to explore issues in sequential art, working on individual, self-directed projects and participating in group discussions and critiques. Emphasis is on advancement of individual studio projects. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 716.
SEQA 731 Digital Design Issues in Sequential Art
This course focuses on digital design, prepress and printing as they pertain to sequential art. There are relevant assignments, discussions and critiques of print, Web and prepress in the digital realm. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 716.
SEQA 741 Inking Techniques
This course is designed to familiarize students with all of the inking tools and techniques employed by professional comic book artists and inkers. Students gain the ability to work in a wide range of styles and emphasis is placed on developing a personal approach to inking. Both individual and group critiques support the projects.
SEQA 745 Writing for Sequential Art
This course focuses on the necessity for sequential artists to be competent writers as well as artists. The course covers all phases of writing for sequential art, including scripting in various styles, constructing plot synopses, submitting proposals to publishers and generating story ideas in various genres of sequential art. The course is designed to give students the writing skills necessary to work professionally in the world of sequential art.
SEQA 749 Sequential Art M.A. Final Project
All M.A. students in sequential art are required to develop and produce a substantial professional-level portfolio that integrates all the skills and knowledge acquired throughout the program. Students are instructed about how to construct a portfolio and effectively market themselves. Attention is given to tailoring portfolios to specific sequential art markets including comics, graphic novels, cartooning, storyboarding, animation, children’s books and/or digital game design. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 716.
SEQA 756 Sequential Art Studio III
This studio course further advances students’ abilities to address issues and arrive at self-directed solutions to sequential art problems. The course involves individual studio projects, class discussion and group critiques. Prerequisite(s): Completion of the review for candidacy.
SEQA 766 Sequential Art Studio IV
Students conclude the Sequential Art Studio sequence as they refine their problem-solving skills with the development of a marketable technique and a personal vision and style. Independent work on projects of particular interest produces a range of work that is of professional, portfolio-level quality. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 756.
SEQA 770 Sequential Art Self-promotion
This course explores the many avenues open to illustrators who wish to work in the field of sequential art. Students examine how to advertise and promote themselves through projects such as portfolio preparation, printed self-promotional pieces and personal logos. Prerequisite(s): SEQA 726.
SEQA 779F Graduate Field Internship
Students in this course undertake a field assignment under the supervision of a faculty member. Prerequisite(s): 15 graduate credit hours, good academic standing.
SEQA 779T Graduate Teaching Internship
Students in this course undertake a teaching assignment under the supervision of a faculty member. Prerequisite(s): 15 graduate credit hours, good academic standing.
SEQA 780 Special Topics in Sequential Art
This course examines topical issues in sequential art. Issues vary from term to term.
SEQA 790 Sequential Art M.F.A. Thesis
All M.F.A. students in sequential art must develop and prepare an original exhibition, with an accompanying written component. Prerequisite(s): Completion of the review for candidacy.
