Summer Semester 2012 special topics course descriptions will be added in November 2011; check back soon. Most course descriptions can be found in The University of Montana Course Catalog.
Descriptions for special topics courses are below, organized by department. College of Technology courses are noted with (COT).
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
ENCR 195 - Introduction to Creative Writing
This course will focus on the craft of creative writing and include three genres: poetry, short fiction, and creative non-fiction. We will address through reading, discussion, and writing the features of each form. Portfolios will incorporate exercises and examples from each of the three genres, but students will create a more substantial body of work employing their chosen genre. Students will give a public reading featuring a work or excerpt selected from their portfolio. Writing is an exercise in faith and doubt—we will work to develop and sustain faith and overcome and banish doubt. Part of the Schwanke Honors Institute.
ENFM 481 - Cultural Saavy Through Film
This course harnesses one of the most powerful forms of media - film. Film has the ability to transport people mentally to locations and remote regions they may never otherwise have the opportunity to experience. Cultural geography is defined as the study of people and their ways of life in different parts of the world. The universal messages in the films students will enable them to transcend regional, economic, ethnic, cultural, and religious distinctions that often separate people from their fellow citizens. Students will also take a closer look at selected problems in cultural geography as exhibited through film.
ENFM 481 - Film as Anthropology
When viewed with a critical eye, films on past and/or distant societies inform viewers about the culture portrayed as well as the culture that gave rise to the portrayal. In this course, students examine both dramatic and documentary films on Native Alaskans, Australian Aborigines and chimpanzee societies, learning to distinguish fact from fiction as they go.
ENFM 481 - Making Movies: Just Do It!
This one-week intensive introduction to the basics of video production focuses on the fundamental principles involved in writing, directing, shooting and editing a dramatic short. Students produce and complete a short video drama over the course of one week. This is an ideal course for teachers who want to integrate low-technology video projects into their classroom, and for students and professionals wanting hands-on production experience.
MAR 195 - Introduction to Digital Animation
This course is for the student interested in beginning to use animation as an expressive and communicative art form. Aesthetic, technical, historical and conceptual issues will be addressed through lectures, demonstrations, exercises and projects. Students will have a hands-on opportunity to create several fun and creative short animations with various digital tools and techniques. Basic production techniques, project planning, linear and non-linear narrative, and the integration of various styles of animation are fundamental components of this course. Students will view and critique a variety of animations and will participate in the process of animation through in-class workshops and demos. Part of the Schwanke Honors Institute.
MAR 395 - Introduction to Photoshop
This online course offers an introduction to the basic principles and techniques of still image design and manipulation using Adobe Photoshop. This project-based course demystifies the powerful Photoshop toolsets and workspace and enables students to actualize their ideas by helping them develop an efficient production process.
MAR 395 - Introduction to Web Design
Students will gain invaluable skills in this introduction to the fundamentals of website structure, content design and navigation. Areas of focus will be directory structure, graphic design, navigation, audio/video integration and domain management. Students will create a simple HTML website. The primary software applications used will be Dreamweaver and Photoshop. No previous experience required.
MAR 395 - Art of Photoshop
Art of Photoshop is an online course that provides an understanding of the use of Photoshop as an artistic tool. Exercises and Projects will explore areas of customizing & combining tools, depth & perspective, and graphic elements (including text paths). This course will be based on effective production techniques, project planning, and the artistic principles of color theory, content, and layering. Interaction will consist of a student project gallery, critique and feedback areas, downloadable videos specific to the curriculum, and video conferencing when available.
MAR 450 - Making Movies: Just Do It!
This one-week intensive introduction to the basics of video production focuses on the fundamental principles involved in writing, directing, shooting and editing a dramatic short. Students produce and complete a short video drama over the course of one week. This is an ideal course for teachers who want to integrate low-technology video projects into their classroom, and for students and professionals wanting hands-on production experience.