Visual Development (BFA)

The School of Visual Development's BFA program provides a dynamic education in the art of scene setting. Core curriculum emphasizes photography, figure modeling, form analysis, figure drawing, narrative principles, visual development for animation, character design, concept paintings, advanced exploration of perspective for video game design, and various other critical design disciplines.

Visual Development (BFA) Degree
Core Classes

This program is available online and on campus

FA 222

Heads and Hands Core/3

Attention Illustration, Visual Development, Animation, and Fine Art students: take this class. You'll focus on the form and structure of the head and hands to create dynamic drawings that include expressions and emotions.

FND 110

Analysis of Form Core/3

In-depth study of classical drawing principles on achieving heightened realism in imagery. Learn how to incorporate accurate geometrical construction and use the five-value system to analyze light and shadow on forms. Gaining skills in perspective, composition, and rendering of various textures and materials.

FND 112

Figure Drawing Core/3

Learn to draw the human figure with accuracy. You'll draw from the nude model to develop an understanding of gesture, proportion, rhythm, balance, structure, and musculature.

FND 116

Perspective Core/3

Learn comprehensive principles of perspective drawing. You'll gain conceptualization skills to create credible real-world and otherworldly environments from imagination. Plus, you'll integrate figures, specific atmospheres, and moods into scenes by plotting accurate light and shadows.

FND 125

Color and Design Core/3

Take a deep dive into color and design. Using traditional media, explore color harmony using different color schemes. Learn how psychology, simultaneous contrast, proportion, atmospheric depth, muting and toning, light temperature, design unity, and visual emphasis can enhance imagery.

ILL 120

Clothed Figure Drawing 1 Core/3

Draw the clothed figure in various situations. You'll study physical flexibility in observational drawing, the essential relationships of the body, how to achieve three-dimensional form, proportion, foreshortening, and how to construct folds.

ILL 133

Digital Media: Digital Manipulation Core/3

Combine essential camera and digital imaging skills to augment your imagery. Using a camera for reference, inspiration, and digital imaging to manipulate photo images, you'll learn to create narrative content, increasing your skills in a fun yet challenging environment. Phone camera or digital camera and computer access are required.

PH 103

Photography for Artists Core/3

Designed for all majors interested in photography, students will be presented an inspired approach to using photography across mediums. Topics include proper exposure, lighting, composition, and optimizing photos for a digital workflow. A smartphone or digital camera is required for this course.

VIS 205

Visual Development Production Core/3

Promote your skills with portfolio-quality work and a personal website. You'll experience the full production pipeline for animation, documentary, and live action by working on a short film or game that tells a compelling story.

VIS 405

Senior Portfolio for Visual Development Core/3

Develop a professionally marketable portfolio with your best work. You'll build client and artist relationships by practicing the art of presentation and behavioral skills to create a consistent professional identity and portfolio.

Degree Requirements

Unit RequirementsUnits
Core24
Sophomore Portfolio3
Senior Portfolio3
Major39
Electives9
Liberal Arts42
Total120

BFA VISUAL DEVELOPMENT DEGREE REQUIREMENTS

  • Minimum grade of C- in all major coursework
  • Minimum 2.0 GPA and the following general education requirements:
    4 Art Historical Awareness courses
    1 Art & Design Communication course
    1 Written Communication: Critical Thinking course
    1 Historical Awareness course
    1 Quantitative Literacy course
    1 Cultural Ideas & Influences course
    1 Employment Communications and Practices course

After above general education requirements are met, take Liberal Arts electives as needed to fulfill the Liberal Arts unit requirement.

Additional Information

Program Learning Outcomes

Undergraduate students will meet the following student performance criteria:

Visual Development

  • Generate functional designs for entertainment media (2D or 3D), following an industry-standard process from thumbnails through final render
  • Effectively communicate narrative, theme and character through design choices
  • Maintain a consistent “language” or “signature style” in art directing a scene with the requisite continuity in visual storytelling
  • Demonstrate the ability to research for inspiration, reference, and accuracy
  • Demonstrate flexibility in illustrative style by showing both a unique personal style and the ability to accommodate style to project needs

Artistic Ability

  • Draw and paint convincing poses, expressions, character designs, thumbnails, storyboards and production paintings
  • Demonstrate facility creating perspective and conveying anatomy and proportion in human and animal figures.
  • Master the use of a focal point, with value, color, detail and composition.

Technical Skills

  • Demonstrate proficient skills with relevant animation technology and software.

Presentation Skills

  • Create visually compelling and cohesive presentations
  • Discuss work clearly and professionally

Collaboration

  • Collaborate effectively on creative projects

Professional Readiness

  • Produce a comprehensive portfolio (digital and print) which meets industry standards
  • Manage workload to meet deadlines