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DAT Courses Offered

Click each program to review all the courses!

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Digital Arts Technology, AS - Core Classes

Click to see overview, Gen Eds, and DAT courses.

DATX-AS 64 total credits

The Digital Arts Technology (DAT) program provides students with an in-depth understanding of digital media creation and production. The aim of the program is to produce digital media designers for jobs in training, marketing, advertising, web development, broadcasting, audio production, graphic art, production, and electronic publishing.

NOTE:

Can be a stand-alone degree, or the directed electives allow for completion of one of six certificates embedded into the degree:

  • Animation & Motion Graphics
  • Audio Production
  • Trending Technology in Digital Media
  • Digital Graphics for Print & Screen
  • Video Production
  • Technical Communication
Learning Outcomes
  • Implement efficient time management and organizational practices.
  • Effectively communicate and function both independently and as part of a team.
  • Develop the ability to adapt and learn quickly.
  • Utilize the phases of the project development life cycle to assist in the design, production, editing, and completion of original projects.
  • Synthesize and apply the processes involved in transforming a concept to a final product.
  • Complete significant projects terminating in deliverable software/media products.

The Digital Arts Technology A.S. degree provides technical experience to students seeking enhanced skills for employment in related areas. Students may enroll full or part-time and may specialize in one of six areas of concentration earning a certificate and the AS degree. Students transfer to CT State Universities and private 4-year schools in-state, and many out-of-state universities. Courses in this program require access to a computer studio lab, or a student must have a computer with specialized software (including Adobe Creative Cloud, Autodesk Maya, Pro Tools, and others as industry dictates) to take the courses remotely.

DAT program courses are offered in the traditional classroom setting and via live broadcast, allowing students to take the courses remotely.

Gen Ed Courses | 34 total program credits
ENG 1010 - Composition
3 cr
MATH 1000 or higher
3–4 cr
Elective ARHX
3–4 cr
Elective SCRX
4 cr
Elective SCKX
3-4 cr
Elective ORAX
3 cr
Elective WRIX
3 cr
Elective HISX
3 cr
Elective SBSX
3 cr
CCS 1001 - College & Career Success
3 cr
Program Courses | 30 total program credits
DAT 1001
Intro to DAT
3 cr
DAT 1111
Foundations of Web Development
3 cr
DAT 1211
Digital Graphics
3 cr
DAT 1411
Video Foundations
3 cr
DAT 2990
Digital Arts Project
3 cr
2000-Level DAT Courses | 3 total 2000+ level credits
DAT 2131
Multi-platform Web Development
3 cr
DAT 2411
Video Editing and Enhancements
3 cr
DAT 2421
Motion and Special Effects
3 cr
DAT 2211
Image Compositing
3 cr
DAT 2321
3D Animation
3 cr
DAT 2221
Vector Imaging
3 cr
DAT 2535
Studio and On-Site Recording
3 cr
DAT 2145
Programming for the Arts
3 cr

Animation & Motion Graphics Certificate

Click to see program overview and required courses.

DATX-CC-ANM

Students who complete the Animation & Motion Graphics Certificate will be able to design two and three-dimensional digital animation sequences, special effects, and interactive media assets for use in advertising, marketing, business and media industries. Certificate credits also apply to the Digital Arts Technology degree program and for transfer to BA/BS programs at other colleges.

Learning Outcomes
  • Demonstrate efficient time management and organizational practices.
  • Practice effective communication both independently and as part of a team.
  • Recognize and use standard animation production workflow to facilitate project completion.
  • Apply industry-standard techniques and tools to complete professional level animation components.
  • Create state-of-the-art special effect techniques used in film and video.
  • Complete significant projects resulting in a robust portfolio or demo reel.

Courses in this program require access to a computer studio lab or a student must have a computer with specialized software (including Adobe Creative Cloud, Autodesk’s Maya, and others as industry dictates) to take the FLEX courses, allowing for virtual attendance because the class is broadcast (and recorded).

18 total credits

ART Requirement

Choose ONE of these courses.

  • ART1210 — Two-Dimensional Design (3 cr)
  • ART1110 — Drawing I (3 cr)
3 cr (choose one)

DAT 1411 — Video Foundations

ANM

This course is an introduction to the three phases of video production: pre-production, production, post-production. Students will script, storyboard, shoot, and edit for the appropriate audience and platform.

3 cr

DAT 1311 — 2D Animation for Digital Arts

ANM

This course stresses the effective utilization of the animation pipeline to create motion graphics that illustrate proper timing and composition. The 12 Principles of Animation will be introduced and explored. Understanding and implementing solid asset design that will function properly when put into a project pipeline will also be covered.

3 cr

DAT 1321 — Fundamentals of 3D Graphics

ANM

This course stresses the effective utilization of the animation pipeline to create motion graphics that illustrate proper timing and composition. The 12 Principles of Animation will be introduced and explored. Understanding and implementing solid asset design that will function properly when put into a project pipeline will also be covered.

3 cr

DAT 2421 — Motion and Special Effects

ANM

This class provides advanced skills that are gained from merging the compositing and editing concepts of Digital Graphics with Video Foundations. Special effects, motion graphics, and chroma-keying are some skills that will be developed.

3 cr

DAT 2321 — 3D Animation

ANM

This course is a continuation from where the Fundamentals of 3D Graphics course left off. The 12 principles of animation will be employed, as the focus is on animation, with continued exploration of lighting and rendering.

3 cr

Audio Production Certificate

Click to see program overview and required courses.

DATX-CC-AUD

Students who complete the certificate in Audio Production will be able to work in the fields of electronic music composition and audio production. Students will be exposed to important historical aspects of compositional styles, the impact of technology on music and art, and the technological tools to compose and edit audio for use in advertising, marketing, business and media industries. Certificate credits also apply to the Digital Arts Technology degree program and for transfer to BA/ BS programs at other colleges.

Learning Outcomes
  • Demonstrate efficient time management and organizational practices.
  • Practice effective communication both independently and as part of a team.
  • Analyze and evaluate the properties of sound, human hearing, and sound reproduction systems.
  • Apply industry-standard techniques and tools to complete multi-track recording projects.
  • Compose original electronic music compositions.
  • Complete significant projects resulting in a robust demo reel.

Courses in this program require access to a computer studio lab or a student must have a computer with specialized software (including Adobe Creative Cloud, Avid Pro-Tools, and others as industry dictates) to take the FLEX courses.

18 total credits

MUS1001 — Music History - Medieval-Baroque

3 cr

Choose one:

Choose ONE of these courses.

  • THR2295 — Theater Practicum II (3 cr)
  • MUS1100 — Fundamentals of Music (3 cr)
  • THR1122 — Sound Design and Production (3 cr)
3 cr (choose one)

DAT 1511 — Electronic Audio Production I

AUD

This course is an introduction to the art and science of electronic music and audio production. The history, elements, and tools of electronic music and audio will be defined and explored. Exposure to acoustics theory, analog and digital audio principles, recording engineering techniques, sound sampling, electronic synthesis, MIDI, and audio for multi-platform applications are some of the aspects that will be covered.

3 cr

DAT 2511 — Electronic Audio Production II

AUD

This course provides intermediate instruction in digital synthesis, digital sequencing software, and electronic composition methods. Students will complete a series of directed and independent compositional projects in a variety of styles with attention to construction of timbres, additive and subtractive synthesis, digital sampling, signal processing, and algorithmic composition.

3 cr

DAT 1525 — Acoustics and Sound Design

AUD

The advanced functions of the properties of sound, human hearing, electro-acoustic instruments, digital sound reproduction systems, sound synthesis, and psychoacoustics are examined. Students will develop and participate in a number of practical sound design and post-production activities focusing on exploration of Foley design and field recording techniques.

3 cr

DAT 2535 — Studio and On-Site Recording

AUD

This course presents an in-depth study of the techniques and methodologies used in studio and live recording. In addition to classroom assignments and exercises, students will be expected to complete field work resulting in the recording, editing, and mastering of a live or studio project. Exposure to multi-track recording, studio acoustics and design, mixing consoles, microphone placement techniques, signal processors, and studio session procedures are some of the many aspects to be covered.

3 cr

Digital Graphics for Print & Screen Certificate

Click to see program overview and required courses.

DATX-CC-DGP

Students who complete the Digital Graphics for Print & Screen Certificate will be able to design two and three-dimensional graphics for both print and digital applications for use in Graphic art production, electronic publishing, broadcast, and web design. Certificate credits also apply to the Digital Arts Technology degree program and for transfer to BA/BS programs at other colleges.

Learning Outcomes
  • Demonstrate efficient time management and organizational practices.
  • Practice effective communication both independently and as part of a team.
  • Recognize and use product development workflow that will facilitate project completion.
  • Apply a combination of advanced techniques and development tools to create professional level digital and print media.
  • Design professional looking graphics utilizing the appropriate tools for each project.
  • Complete significant projects resulting in a robust portfolio.

Courses in this program require access to a computer studio class or a student must have a computer with specialized software (including Adobe Creative Cloud and others as industry dictates) to take the FLEX courses.

18 total credits

DAT 1111 — Foundations of Web Development

DGP

This is an introduction to HTML, CSS, and JavaScript in client- side web development. The process of planning, development, and implementation of web sites is covered.

3 cr

DAT 1221 — Digital Layout

DGP

This course introduces page layout software that aides in the design and publishing of high-quality documents in both print and digital formats. Basic design principles will be addressed in addition to the technical aspect of creating both static and interactive documents.

3 cr

DAT 1211 — Digital Graphics

DGP

Tools and concepts learned in this course are the backbone of all the other digital art technology courses. Primarily working with raster graphics, but touching on vector imaging, the overarching idea is to gain a strong working knowledge of the tools and design principles to produce convincing composite images.

3 cr

DAT 1000 — Graphic Design for DAT

DGP

This course is an introduction to the basic principles and processes of Graphic Design for Digital Arts. Students will apply design concepts, terminology, and methodologies in the analysis of graphic arts from traditional to computer designed graphics.

3 cr

DAT 2131 — Multi-platform Web Development

DGP

This is an extension of the Foundations of Web Development course where students will gain a working knowledge of the different web development platforms in use today including social media. The focus will be developing the skill to quickly adapt to emerging technology.

3 cr

Choose one:

Choose ONE of these courses.

  • DAT 2211 — Image Compositing (3 cr)
  • DAT 2221 — Vector Imaging (3 cr)
3 cr (choose one)

Technical Communication Certificate

Click to see program overview and required courses.

DATX-CC-TCH

Students who complete the certificate in Technical Communication are prepared and empowered to be an effective communicator with the ability to write, illustrate, and speak about technical subjects in media, advertising, and business industries. This certificate can be completed in one semester, or applied to the TAP Communication or the Digital Arts Technology degree program and for transfer to BA/ BS programs at other colleges.

Learning Outcomes
  • Demonstrate increased competencies in writing and speaking skills.
  • Effectively articulate technical procedures to co-workers, management, and customers.
  • Utilize current computer software, audio, and video tools in preparing technical presentations.
  • Critically analyze diverse uses of technical communication, including current trends and effects of mass media, and the social impact of mass media on individuals and our American culture.
  • Assess and articulate how various channels of mass media communication influence message content.

This certificate is focused on retraining workers who have a desire to improve their technical communication skills. DAT courses in this program require access to a computer studio lab or a student must have a computer with specialized software (including Adobe Creative Cloud, Autodesk’s Maya, and others as industry dictates) to take the FLEX courses.

18 total credits

COMM1010 — Introduction to Mass Communication

3 cr

Computer Software Requirement

Choose ONE of these courses.

  • CIS1001 — Introduction to Computers (3 cr)
  • CSA1110 — Introduction to Software Applications (3 cr)
3 cr (choose one)

DAT 1001 — Intro to DAT

TCH

This course is an introduction and overview of the digital arts. The basic elements, components and skills required for digital art development and production will be defined and explored. Topics include; applications of digital arts, presentation software, visual design principles, digital media design, Web design, configuring a multimedia system, emerging technologies, multimedia components, and interactive multimedia development.

3 cr

DAT 1221 — Digital Layout

TCH

This course introduces page layout software that aides in the design and publishing of high-quality documents in both print and digital formats. Basic design principles will be addressed in addition to the technical aspect of creating both static and interactive documents.

3 cr

DAT 1000 — Graphic Design for DAT

TCH

This course is an introduction to the basic principles and processes of Graphic Design for Digital Arts. Students will apply design concepts, terminology, and methodologies in the analysis of graphic arts from traditional to computer designed graphics.

3 cr

Choose one:

Choose ONE of these courses.

  • DAT 2211 — Image Compositing (3 cr)
  • DAT 2221 — Vector Imaging (3 cr)
3 cr (choose one)

ENG1080 — Composition II: Technical Writing and Presentations

3 cr

Video Production Certificate

Click to see program overview and required courses.

DATX-CC-VID

Students who complete the Video Production Certificate will be able to apply visual composition, lighting design, non-linear video editing, motion graphics design, audio production, and sound design for use in advertising, marketing, business and media industries. Certificate credits also apply to the Digital Arts Technology degree program and for transfer to BA/ BS programs at other colleges.

Learning Outcomes
  • Demonstrate efficient time management and organizational practices.
  • Practice effective communication both independently and as part of a team.
  • Recognize and use the multiple steps of the video production process to facilitate project completion.
  • Apply industry-standard techniques and tools to complete professional level audio visual projects.
  • Create state-of-the-art special effect techniques used in film and video.
  • Complete significant projects resulting in a robust portfolio or demo reel.

Courses in this program require access to a computer studio lab or a student must have a computer with specialized software (including Adobe Creative Cloud, Avid Pro-Tools, and others as industry dictates) to take the FLEX courses.

18 total credits

COMM1201 — Film Study and Appreciation

3 cr

DAT 1002 — Intro to Photography

VID

Introduction to the fundamentals of photography concentrating on the use of the camera as a form of expression and communication. Manual camera functions and basic image editing procedures will be covered. Photographic composition, genres and ethics will also be considered through lectures and assignments. Note: students enrolled in this course will be responsible for purchasing a DSLR Camera or other approved camera with manual functions.

3 cr

DAT 1411 — Video Foundations

VID

This course is an introduction to the three phases of video production: pre-production, production, post-production. Students will script, storyboard, shoot, and edit for the appropriate audience and platform.

3 cr

Choose one:

  • DAT 1525 — Acoustics and Sound Design (3 cr)
  • DAT 2535 — Studio and On-Site Recording (3 cr)
3 cr (choose one)

DAT 2411 — Video Editing and Enhancements

VID

You will utilize the knowledge gained in the Video Foundations course while introducing more complex editing techniques into the process. Advanced editing techniques, color correction, and sound sweetening are some of the skills that will be refined.

3 cr

DAT 2421 — Motion and Special Effects

VID

This class provides advanced skills that are gained from merging the compositing and editing concepts of Digital Graphics with Video Foundations. Special effects, motion graphics, and chroma-keying are some skills that will be developed.

3 cr

🔗 Adobe Minimum Specifications

Adobe Creative Cloud Adobe Acrobat DC Adobe After Effects Adobe Animate Adobe Audition Adobe Bridge Adobe Dreamweaver Adobe Illustrator Adobe InDesign Adobe Photoshop Adobe Lightroom Adobe Premiere Pro Adobe Lightroom Adobe Premiere Pro Autodesk Maya Avid Pro-Tools

* USB drive (8 GB min) required.
** External hard drive (250 GB min) recommended.
*** Studio courses require over-ear headphones and Pro Tools setup.