Undergraduate Courses
SNDS 100 Sound Synthesis
This course allows students to explore basic approaches to sound synthesis in a non-narrative context. Basic practices are developed through hands-on experiences using virtual synthesis tools. In addition, students are exposed to the historical developments of synthesis.
SNDS 105 Desktop Audio
This course is designed to familiarize students with the audio component of desktop applications. Students explore signal flow as it relates to the virtual realm of digital audio. In addition, students learn how to prepare visual materials commonly used in multimedia projects and assignments.
SNDS 201 Introduction to Sound Design
This course introduces sound designers and filmmakers to the unique contributions that sound brings to image. Students develop a basic understanding of the workflow and practices associated with soundtrack development. This course seeks to promote effective collaboration between audio and video professionals. Students apply their knowledge and skills in the development of a basic soundtrack.
SNDS 205 Sound for Animators
This course introduces animators to the unique contributions that sound can bring to image. Students develop a fundamental understanding of the workflow and practices associated with soundtrack development specific to animation. This course seeks to promote effective collaboration between sound designers and animators. Students apply their knowledge and skills in the development of a complete soundtrack for animation. Prerequisite(s): CMPA 100 or CMPA 110 or ELDS 205 or ELDS 225.
SNDS 212 Music for Motion Pictures
This course examines the relationship of music to image. The roles of music supervisor, music editor and composer are covered. Students spot and cut music to moving images and are introduced to the vocabulary needed to work with music editors and composers. The university’s production music library is used extensively, and business and legal aspects of the industry are examined. Prerequisite(s): SNDS 201.
SNDS 223 Intermediate Sound Design
This course continues to explore the unique contributions of sound in media. An in-depth examination of the physics, acoustics and perceptual principles of audio provide the foundation for advanced audio production. Students develop a comprehensive skill set with digital audio workstations. Each project is designed to reinforce and contextualize the principles of sound design. Prerequisite(s): SNDS 201.
SNDS 225 Sound in Media
This course examines the cultural impact of sound in media from the creation of Edison’s wax cylinder to the use of multichannel digital sound in contemporary multiplex movie theaters. The development of sound technology and its influence on various media is examined in detail. Special attention is paid to the use of sound to aid in the creation of cultural icons and identity. These issues are explored by examining the history of sound in radio, film, music, television and fine arts. Prerequisite(s): ARTH 207, SNDS 201.
SNDS 230 Sound Design for Radio
Designed to prepare students for career opportunities that use sound production, this course teaches students how to use sound to enhance drama, commercials, news and other kinds of radio and commercial programming. Students gain experience with the workflow and specialized tools associated with radio production. Prerequisite(s): SNDS 223.
SNDS 260 Sound Art
During the 20th century, sound art manifested itself in installations, on radio, on CD and tape recordings and in live performances. This course allows students to explore this art form in its various manifestations. Experimental signal processing and progressive approaches to audio presentation are fostered.
SNDS 311 Sound Effects Field Recording
This course deals with the field recording, acquisition, preparation and library workflow for originally-recorded sound effects. Students also learn professional methods of organizing sound libraries, so that other team members can best utilize the material. Prerequisite(s): SNDS 223.
SNDS 314 MIDI Technologies for Sound Design
MIDI is introduced and explored in the context of sound design and music production. Students learn the fundamentals of MIDI and associated technologies. Class projects allow students to create soundscapes, design effects and musical compositions. Prerequisite(s): SNDS 223.
SNDS 316 Advanced Sound Design
This course prepares students for advanced audio production in film and television. Signal flow and signal processing are covered extensively. Hands-on exercises and ear training reinforce these concepts. Students are introduced to a variety of studio environments and control surfaces. Prerequisite(s): SNDS 223.
SNDS 320 Sound Effects and Foley
Students work on recording and performance of both foley and Automated Dialogue Replacement (ADR), emulating the professional skills having to do with microphone technique, proper dialogue recording for post; both single ADR and group ADR; and recording and performing foley. Props, surfaces and performance techniques are emphasized. Skills of the recording mixer for both foley and ADR are covered. Prerequisite(s): SNDS 316.
SNDS 330 Modular Synthesis and Audio Programming
This course allows students to further explore sound synthesis techniques introduced in MIDI Technologies for sound design. Sound synthesis is explored as it pertains to sound design and music production. Students are expected to explore sound synthesis modularity in both the analog and digital domain and learn basic programming skills in order to build their own sound synthesis environments. Prerequisite(s): SNDS 260.
SNDS 331 Location Sound
This course is designed to provide a thorough understanding of the recording skills and systems required for location sound for film and video productions. Single- and double-system audio acquisition, advanced microphone techniques and synchronization are emphasized. Prerequisite(s): SNDS 223.
SNDS 335 Audiovisual Synthesis
For more than a century, composers and visual artists have pursued the relationship between sound and image. Often referred to as synaesthetic art, this work seeks to fuse the senses of sight and sound in a single expression. Audiovisual programming environments now provide artists with the ability to create digital sound and imagery simultaneously. This course gives students the opportunity to explore this field and create their own audiovisual systems for real-time performance or experimental audiovisual montage. Prerequisite(s): SNDS 260.
SNDS 345 Voice in Cinema
Students work on techniques of editing pre-recorded dialogue and sound effects, Foley and ADR. Students are evaluated regarding their skills at organizing tracks for others to mix, the logical organization of a sound editing window as well as editing as part of the workflow of a team. Prerequisite(s): SNDS 316.
SNDS 355 Sound for the Web and Interactive Media
Students are introduced to the creative integration of sound in interactive projects. Web-based interactivity is explored as a medium for online gallery environments as well as commercial applications. Methods for combining and sampling sounds are covered, along with an exploration of the nonlinear timeline and optimization techniques for digital files. Students experiment with the combination of sound and imagery, coordinating user responses with appropriate and compelling sounds. Prerequisite(s): ITGM 260.
SNDS 400 Surround Sound
This course exposes students to the approaches and techniques used when mixing film and television for multi-channel release. Students learn session setup and signal flow designed to facilitate the production of stems and printmasters. Students learn to encode in 5.1 and LtRt. Basic video encoding and DVD authoring are also covered. Prerequisite(s): SNDS 320, SNDS 345.
SNDS 402 Recording Studio I
This course develops skill sets associated with the role of assistant engineer. Students develop an advanced understanding of signal flow, microphone technique and session management. Students gain experience using a large format console and supporting hardware. Each student is responsible for securing talent for their class projects. Prerequisite(s): SNDS 316.
SNDS 404 Recording Studio II
This course builds on the skills and techniques acquired in Recording Studio I. Extensive opportunities to record and mix allow students to track and mix more demanding projects. Students learn advanced editing, signal processing and mixing approaches for both music and film projects. Each student is responsible for securing talent for class projects. Prerequisite(s): SNDS 402.
SNDS 416 Scoring to Picture
This course utilizes the skills gained from Music for Motion Picture and MIDI Technologies to produce legal scores for student media projects. Students utilize standard music clearance procedures and work directly with student directors to create original scores using edited scores, production libraries and song scores. Prerequisite(s): SNDS 212, SNDS 314, SNDS 316.
SNDS 421 Advanced SFX and Foley
This course provides students with more extensive exposure to the techniques and workflow associated with SFX and Foley production. Students are given practical assignments working with a variety of student media productions. Prerequisite(s): SNDS 320.
SNDS 440 Postproduction Sound
Students in this course are given the opportunity to develop and supervise a postproduction team for a short form narrative film or documentary. Music editing and supervision are also performed when required by the director. Students attend spotting sessions and work closely with the director to develop a clear vision for the soundtrack. The supervising sound editor is responsible for preparing the music, SFX and dialog stems for delivery to the mix stage. Students learn the art of self-promotion, developing demo reels, cover letters and résumés. Prerequisite(s): SNDS 320, SNDS 345.
SNDS 441 Advanced Production Audio
This course offers continued exploration in production audio techniques associated with narrative film. In addition, this course explores additional techniques and workflow associated with television and live sound reinforcement. Prerequisite(s): SNDS 331.
SNDS 445 Advanced Dialog Recording and Editing
This course is a continuation of the Voice in Cinema course. Students develop advanced dialog recording, editing and mixing skills and apply these skills in real world production scenarios. Prerequisite(s): SNDS 345.
SNDS 495 Special Topics in Sound Design
The topic of this course varies from quarter to quarter. Each seminar focuses on various problems in the field of sound design and allows advanced students to pursue individual or collaborative projects related to the subject of the course. Prerequisite(s): Vary according to topic.
This course allows students to explore basic approaches to sound synthesis in a non-narrative context. Basic practices are developed through hands-on experiences using virtual synthesis tools. In addition, students are exposed to the historical developments of synthesis.
SNDS 105 Desktop Audio
This course is designed to familiarize students with the audio component of desktop applications. Students explore signal flow as it relates to the virtual realm of digital audio. In addition, students learn how to prepare visual materials commonly used in multimedia projects and assignments.
SNDS 201 Introduction to Sound Design
This course introduces sound designers and filmmakers to the unique contributions that sound brings to image. Students develop a basic understanding of the workflow and practices associated with soundtrack development. This course seeks to promote effective collaboration between audio and video professionals. Students apply their knowledge and skills in the development of a basic soundtrack.
SNDS 205 Sound for Animators
This course introduces animators to the unique contributions that sound can bring to image. Students develop a fundamental understanding of the workflow and practices associated with soundtrack development specific to animation. This course seeks to promote effective collaboration between sound designers and animators. Students apply their knowledge and skills in the development of a complete soundtrack for animation. Prerequisite(s): CMPA 100 or CMPA 110 or ELDS 205 or ELDS 225.
SNDS 212 Music for Motion Pictures
This course examines the relationship of music to image. The roles of music supervisor, music editor and composer are covered. Students spot and cut music to moving images and are introduced to the vocabulary needed to work with music editors and composers. The university’s production music library is used extensively, and business and legal aspects of the industry are examined. Prerequisite(s): SNDS 201.
SNDS 223 Intermediate Sound Design
This course continues to explore the unique contributions of sound in media. An in-depth examination of the physics, acoustics and perceptual principles of audio provide the foundation for advanced audio production. Students develop a comprehensive skill set with digital audio workstations. Each project is designed to reinforce and contextualize the principles of sound design. Prerequisite(s): SNDS 201.
SNDS 225 Sound in Media
This course examines the cultural impact of sound in media from the creation of Edison’s wax cylinder to the use of multichannel digital sound in contemporary multiplex movie theaters. The development of sound technology and its influence on various media is examined in detail. Special attention is paid to the use of sound to aid in the creation of cultural icons and identity. These issues are explored by examining the history of sound in radio, film, music, television and fine arts. Prerequisite(s): ARTH 207, SNDS 201.
SNDS 230 Sound Design for Radio
Designed to prepare students for career opportunities that use sound production, this course teaches students how to use sound to enhance drama, commercials, news and other kinds of radio and commercial programming. Students gain experience with the workflow and specialized tools associated with radio production. Prerequisite(s): SNDS 223.
SNDS 260 Sound Art
During the 20th century, sound art manifested itself in installations, on radio, on CD and tape recordings and in live performances. This course allows students to explore this art form in its various manifestations. Experimental signal processing and progressive approaches to audio presentation are fostered.
SNDS 311 Sound Effects Field Recording
This course deals with the field recording, acquisition, preparation and library workflow for originally-recorded sound effects. Students also learn professional methods of organizing sound libraries, so that other team members can best utilize the material. Prerequisite(s): SNDS 223.
SNDS 314 MIDI Technologies for Sound Design
MIDI is introduced and explored in the context of sound design and music production. Students learn the fundamentals of MIDI and associated technologies. Class projects allow students to create soundscapes, design effects and musical compositions. Prerequisite(s): SNDS 223.
SNDS 316 Advanced Sound Design
This course prepares students for advanced audio production in film and television. Signal flow and signal processing are covered extensively. Hands-on exercises and ear training reinforce these concepts. Students are introduced to a variety of studio environments and control surfaces. Prerequisite(s): SNDS 223.
SNDS 320 Sound Effects and Foley
Students work on recording and performance of both foley and Automated Dialogue Replacement (ADR), emulating the professional skills having to do with microphone technique, proper dialogue recording for post; both single ADR and group ADR; and recording and performing foley. Props, surfaces and performance techniques are emphasized. Skills of the recording mixer for both foley and ADR are covered. Prerequisite(s): SNDS 316.
SNDS 330 Modular Synthesis and Audio Programming
This course allows students to further explore sound synthesis techniques introduced in MIDI Technologies for sound design. Sound synthesis is explored as it pertains to sound design and music production. Students are expected to explore sound synthesis modularity in both the analog and digital domain and learn basic programming skills in order to build their own sound synthesis environments. Prerequisite(s): SNDS 260.
SNDS 331 Location Sound
This course is designed to provide a thorough understanding of the recording skills and systems required for location sound for film and video productions. Single- and double-system audio acquisition, advanced microphone techniques and synchronization are emphasized. Prerequisite(s): SNDS 223.
SNDS 335 Audiovisual Synthesis
For more than a century, composers and visual artists have pursued the relationship between sound and image. Often referred to as synaesthetic art, this work seeks to fuse the senses of sight and sound in a single expression. Audiovisual programming environments now provide artists with the ability to create digital sound and imagery simultaneously. This course gives students the opportunity to explore this field and create their own audiovisual systems for real-time performance or experimental audiovisual montage. Prerequisite(s): SNDS 260.
SNDS 345 Voice in Cinema
Students work on techniques of editing pre-recorded dialogue and sound effects, Foley and ADR. Students are evaluated regarding their skills at organizing tracks for others to mix, the logical organization of a sound editing window as well as editing as part of the workflow of a team. Prerequisite(s): SNDS 316.
SNDS 355 Sound for the Web and Interactive Media
Students are introduced to the creative integration of sound in interactive projects. Web-based interactivity is explored as a medium for online gallery environments as well as commercial applications. Methods for combining and sampling sounds are covered, along with an exploration of the nonlinear timeline and optimization techniques for digital files. Students experiment with the combination of sound and imagery, coordinating user responses with appropriate and compelling sounds. Prerequisite(s): ITGM 260.
SNDS 400 Surround Sound
This course exposes students to the approaches and techniques used when mixing film and television for multi-channel release. Students learn session setup and signal flow designed to facilitate the production of stems and printmasters. Students learn to encode in 5.1 and LtRt. Basic video encoding and DVD authoring are also covered. Prerequisite(s): SNDS 320, SNDS 345.
SNDS 402 Recording Studio I
This course develops skill sets associated with the role of assistant engineer. Students develop an advanced understanding of signal flow, microphone technique and session management. Students gain experience using a large format console and supporting hardware. Each student is responsible for securing talent for their class projects. Prerequisite(s): SNDS 316.
SNDS 404 Recording Studio II
This course builds on the skills and techniques acquired in Recording Studio I. Extensive opportunities to record and mix allow students to track and mix more demanding projects. Students learn advanced editing, signal processing and mixing approaches for both music and film projects. Each student is responsible for securing talent for class projects. Prerequisite(s): SNDS 402.
SNDS 416 Scoring to Picture
This course utilizes the skills gained from Music for Motion Picture and MIDI Technologies to produce legal scores for student media projects. Students utilize standard music clearance procedures and work directly with student directors to create original scores using edited scores, production libraries and song scores. Prerequisite(s): SNDS 212, SNDS 314, SNDS 316.
SNDS 421 Advanced SFX and Foley
This course provides students with more extensive exposure to the techniques and workflow associated with SFX and Foley production. Students are given practical assignments working with a variety of student media productions. Prerequisite(s): SNDS 320.
SNDS 440 Postproduction Sound
Students in this course are given the opportunity to develop and supervise a postproduction team for a short form narrative film or documentary. Music editing and supervision are also performed when required by the director. Students attend spotting sessions and work closely with the director to develop a clear vision for the soundtrack. The supervising sound editor is responsible for preparing the music, SFX and dialog stems for delivery to the mix stage. Students learn the art of self-promotion, developing demo reels, cover letters and résumés. Prerequisite(s): SNDS 320, SNDS 345.
SNDS 441 Advanced Production Audio
This course offers continued exploration in production audio techniques associated with narrative film. In addition, this course explores additional techniques and workflow associated with television and live sound reinforcement. Prerequisite(s): SNDS 331.
SNDS 445 Advanced Dialog Recording and Editing
This course is a continuation of the Voice in Cinema course. Students develop advanced dialog recording, editing and mixing skills and apply these skills in real world production scenarios. Prerequisite(s): SNDS 345.
SNDS 495 Special Topics in Sound Design
The topic of this course varies from quarter to quarter. Each seminar focuses on various problems in the field of sound design and allows advanced students to pursue individual or collaborative projects related to the subject of the course. Prerequisite(s): Vary according to topic.
Graduate Courses
SNDS 701 Sound Design for Film and Video
This course examines audio production techniques, technologies and aesthetics related to the development of a compelling soundtrack. Students receive training in all phases of digital sound recording, editing and mixing. Students work with industry-standard location and field recording equipment. In addition, they learn advanced editing and mixing techniques associated with digital audio workstations.
SNDS 702 Sound Design Resources and Analysis
This course provides a comprehensive survey of the resources available to support graduate-level research in the field of sound design, sound and recording arts. Students develop strategies to locate and evaluate resource materials from traditional and nontraditional sources. Students explore stylistic considerations associated with writing for journals, academia and other professional audiences.
SNDS 709 Postproduction Methodologies
The history of sound for motion picture reveals some of the most creative practices and innovations in the entire century of sound recording. This course provides students with a forum for the research and discussion of these historical and contemporary precedents, as well as future methodology in postproduction sound. Students are required to identify historical trends in sound for motion picture and then to envisage and discuss possibilities for innovation and creative practice. Students experiment with the application of innovative methodologies through a series of exercises, which culminates in a complete soundtrack for motion picture. Throughout the quarter, students are required to articulate the methodologies developed and implemented in their projects.
SNDS 711 Audio Signal Processing
This course explores signal processing in the context of sound design and music production. Students gain experience working with a vast array of software plug-ins used by sound designers to shape audio. Students learn strategies to conceptualize and realize creative sound effects and soundscapes for use in narrative and experimental sound designs.
SNDS 718 Music Mix and Mastering
The course is designed to give graduate students advanced training in music postproduction. Students receive advanced ear training to facilitate critical listening needed to evaluate music mixes. Students mix and master large-format multi-track music sessions in both stereo and multi-channel formats. Students learn how to author multi-channel projects in a variety of industry-standard formats.
SNDS 719 Sound Design M.A. Studio I
This course gives students a forum for developing directions that lead to their thesis project or final M.A project. Students propose projects that continue to explore their specialization. Students present their work-in-progress throughout the quarter and begin to contextualize their approach in a theoretical framework.
SNDS 723 Sound Design M.A. Studio II
This course furthers the personal aesthetic and theoretical context developed in Sound Design Studio I. Strong emphasis is placed on personal motivation and time management. Students refine their work-in-progress toward a specific proposal for an M.F.A. thesis project or M.A. final project. Prerequisite(s): SNDS 719.
SNDS 726 Music Theory for Sound Designers
This course examines the interrelationships between principles in music and sound design. The course identifies, analyzes and interprets the use of music as cultural signifier in the overall soundscapes of specific media. Additionally, Western and global music theories are examined in the context of sound design practices and technologies.
SNDS 729 Theory and Practice in Sound Design
This course emphasizes the use and developments of sound in historic and contemporary media. Through analysis of the interrelationship between sound, culture and media theory, students develop a vocabulary for describing, and thereby begin to understand, the complexities of sound in media. Small research projects throughout the quarter give students an opportunity to develop the skills necessary for successful completion of the written component of sound design thesis project. The research projects are complimented by short studio projects that interpret topics discussed in class. Prerequisite(s): ARTH 701.
SNDS 736 Sound Art
This course allows students to explore experimental and non-commercial approaches to sound. Innovative practices are fostered through advanced signal processing techniques, alternative exhibition formats and critical review of previous work in sound art.
SNDS 739 Sound Design Seminar
This course provides a forum for discussing the varied practices of sound design and its collaborative nature. This course provides an opportunity for students to develop a community among colleagues by discussing and critiquing previous work and current developments in the art and practice of sound. Students are responsible for proposing and moderating several discussion topics throughout the quarter.
SNDS 749 Sound Design M.A. Final Project
All M.A. students in sound design are required to develop and complete a final, comprehensive project. The project represents the culmination of the student’s progress throughout the program and demonstrates specialization and mastery fostered during participation in the program and include both written and studio components. Prerequisite(s): SNDS 719 and completion of the review for candidacy.
SNDS 750 Sound Design for Performance Space
From the earliest sound on stages before audio technology to the most modern productions, the aesthetic language of sound design is meant to shape audience engagement with the live stage. This course exposes students to collaboration with other artists and guides them in the effective and professional organization of sound for presentation in the performing arts.
SNDS 751 Audio Systems Engineering
Audio Systems Engineering develops skills in design, installation and the operation of advanced audio systems. Students study audio systems found in live venues as well as in controlled studio environments. Students learn how to evaluate recording and performance spaces and diagnose common problems associated with these environments.
SNDS 755 Sound Design M.F.A. Studio I
This course provides students a forum for developing a topic for their M.F.A thesis. Students propose projects that facilitate further exploration in their chosen area of specialization. Topics and related resources are critiqued on a regular basis to provide feedback necessary for shaping a working thesis.
SNDS 760 Sound Design for Linear Digital Media
Animators and other digital media artists working in linear structures explore the inter-relationship of sound and imagery through extensive experimentation and analysis of audio-visual media. Using sound as an expressive medium, students combine such elements as effects, music and dialog to complement linear imagery.
SNDS 762 Modular Synthesis
Sound synthesis is explored as applicable to sound design and music production in both the analog and digital domain. Students develop a thorough understanding of signal flow in an audio network. Modularity is discussed as a conceptual framework for creative problem-solving throughout the course.
SNDS 764 Electronic Music Production
Students learn how to develop electronic music through the use of MIDI, synthesis and sampling technologies. Students explore the historic impact of electronics in sound arts. Students apply this knowledge in the creation of soundscapes for narrative and experimental work.
SNDS 765 Sound Design M.F.A. Studio II
This course facilitates the production phase of the studio component of a M.F.A. thesis. Students begin to produce a body of work in support of their thesis. Projects are shown in-progress for the purposes of faculty and peer critique. Prerequisite(s): SNDS 755.
SNDS 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.
SNDS 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.
SNDS 780 Special Topics in Sound Design
This course provides an opportunity for students to focus on particular issues in the field of sound design or to study advanced techniques and processes. Faculty, course content and prerequisites vary. The course may include lectures, discussions, individual projects and critiques, depending on the topic.
SNDS 790 Sound Design M.F.A. Thesis
This is the culmination of the expertise and mastery developed during the course of the sound design graduate experience. The thesis consists of a single work representative of the specialization fostered during participation in the program. A written component demonstrates the research informing the development and philosophy of the work itself. Prerequisite(s): SNDS 765 and completion of the review for candidacy.
This course examines audio production techniques, technologies and aesthetics related to the development of a compelling soundtrack. Students receive training in all phases of digital sound recording, editing and mixing. Students work with industry-standard location and field recording equipment. In addition, they learn advanced editing and mixing techniques associated with digital audio workstations.
SNDS 702 Sound Design Resources and Analysis
This course provides a comprehensive survey of the resources available to support graduate-level research in the field of sound design, sound and recording arts. Students develop strategies to locate and evaluate resource materials from traditional and nontraditional sources. Students explore stylistic considerations associated with writing for journals, academia and other professional audiences.
SNDS 709 Postproduction Methodologies
The history of sound for motion picture reveals some of the most creative practices and innovations in the entire century of sound recording. This course provides students with a forum for the research and discussion of these historical and contemporary precedents, as well as future methodology in postproduction sound. Students are required to identify historical trends in sound for motion picture and then to envisage and discuss possibilities for innovation and creative practice. Students experiment with the application of innovative methodologies through a series of exercises, which culminates in a complete soundtrack for motion picture. Throughout the quarter, students are required to articulate the methodologies developed and implemented in their projects.
SNDS 711 Audio Signal Processing
This course explores signal processing in the context of sound design and music production. Students gain experience working with a vast array of software plug-ins used by sound designers to shape audio. Students learn strategies to conceptualize and realize creative sound effects and soundscapes for use in narrative and experimental sound designs.
SNDS 718 Music Mix and Mastering
The course is designed to give graduate students advanced training in music postproduction. Students receive advanced ear training to facilitate critical listening needed to evaluate music mixes. Students mix and master large-format multi-track music sessions in both stereo and multi-channel formats. Students learn how to author multi-channel projects in a variety of industry-standard formats.
SNDS 719 Sound Design M.A. Studio I
This course gives students a forum for developing directions that lead to their thesis project or final M.A project. Students propose projects that continue to explore their specialization. Students present their work-in-progress throughout the quarter and begin to contextualize their approach in a theoretical framework.
SNDS 723 Sound Design M.A. Studio II
This course furthers the personal aesthetic and theoretical context developed in Sound Design Studio I. Strong emphasis is placed on personal motivation and time management. Students refine their work-in-progress toward a specific proposal for an M.F.A. thesis project or M.A. final project. Prerequisite(s): SNDS 719.
SNDS 726 Music Theory for Sound Designers
This course examines the interrelationships between principles in music and sound design. The course identifies, analyzes and interprets the use of music as cultural signifier in the overall soundscapes of specific media. Additionally, Western and global music theories are examined in the context of sound design practices and technologies.
SNDS 729 Theory and Practice in Sound Design
This course emphasizes the use and developments of sound in historic and contemporary media. Through analysis of the interrelationship between sound, culture and media theory, students develop a vocabulary for describing, and thereby begin to understand, the complexities of sound in media. Small research projects throughout the quarter give students an opportunity to develop the skills necessary for successful completion of the written component of sound design thesis project. The research projects are complimented by short studio projects that interpret topics discussed in class. Prerequisite(s): ARTH 701.
SNDS 736 Sound Art
This course allows students to explore experimental and non-commercial approaches to sound. Innovative practices are fostered through advanced signal processing techniques, alternative exhibition formats and critical review of previous work in sound art.
SNDS 739 Sound Design Seminar
This course provides a forum for discussing the varied practices of sound design and its collaborative nature. This course provides an opportunity for students to develop a community among colleagues by discussing and critiquing previous work and current developments in the art and practice of sound. Students are responsible for proposing and moderating several discussion topics throughout the quarter.
SNDS 749 Sound Design M.A. Final Project
All M.A. students in sound design are required to develop and complete a final, comprehensive project. The project represents the culmination of the student’s progress throughout the program and demonstrates specialization and mastery fostered during participation in the program and include both written and studio components. Prerequisite(s): SNDS 719 and completion of the review for candidacy.
SNDS 750 Sound Design for Performance Space
From the earliest sound on stages before audio technology to the most modern productions, the aesthetic language of sound design is meant to shape audience engagement with the live stage. This course exposes students to collaboration with other artists and guides them in the effective and professional organization of sound for presentation in the performing arts.
SNDS 751 Audio Systems Engineering
Audio Systems Engineering develops skills in design, installation and the operation of advanced audio systems. Students study audio systems found in live venues as well as in controlled studio environments. Students learn how to evaluate recording and performance spaces and diagnose common problems associated with these environments.
SNDS 755 Sound Design M.F.A. Studio I
This course provides students a forum for developing a topic for their M.F.A thesis. Students propose projects that facilitate further exploration in their chosen area of specialization. Topics and related resources are critiqued on a regular basis to provide feedback necessary for shaping a working thesis.
SNDS 760 Sound Design for Linear Digital Media
Animators and other digital media artists working in linear structures explore the inter-relationship of sound and imagery through extensive experimentation and analysis of audio-visual media. Using sound as an expressive medium, students combine such elements as effects, music and dialog to complement linear imagery.
SNDS 762 Modular Synthesis
Sound synthesis is explored as applicable to sound design and music production in both the analog and digital domain. Students develop a thorough understanding of signal flow in an audio network. Modularity is discussed as a conceptual framework for creative problem-solving throughout the course.
SNDS 764 Electronic Music Production
Students learn how to develop electronic music through the use of MIDI, synthesis and sampling technologies. Students explore the historic impact of electronics in sound arts. Students apply this knowledge in the creation of soundscapes for narrative and experimental work.
SNDS 765 Sound Design M.F.A. Studio II
This course facilitates the production phase of the studio component of a M.F.A. thesis. Students begin to produce a body of work in support of their thesis. Projects are shown in-progress for the purposes of faculty and peer critique. Prerequisite(s): SNDS 755.
SNDS 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.
SNDS 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.
SNDS 780 Special Topics in Sound Design
This course provides an opportunity for students to focus on particular issues in the field of sound design or to study advanced techniques and processes. Faculty, course content and prerequisites vary. The course may include lectures, discussions, individual projects and critiques, depending on the topic.
SNDS 790 Sound Design M.F.A. Thesis
This is the culmination of the expertise and mastery developed during the course of the sound design graduate experience. The thesis consists of a single work representative of the specialization fostered during participation in the program. A written component demonstrates the research informing the development and philosophy of the work itself. Prerequisite(s): SNDS 765 and completion of the review for candidacy.
